Pear and Gorgonzola Salad with Candied Walnuts

Name: Pear and Gorgonzola Salad with Candied Walnuts
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups mixed salad greens; 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced; 100g Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled; 1 cup candied walnuts; 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Pear and Gorgonzola Salad with Candied Walnuts. The combination of sweet, juicy pears paired with the creamy tang of Gorgonzola cheese creates a delightful contrast that’s both fresh and satisfying. The candied walnuts add a wonderful crunch and a hint of sweetness that elevates the entire dish. Whether I’m serving it as a light lunch, a side for dinner, or a festive addition to a holiday table, this salad never fails to impress. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Created by

Celeste Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:55:09.396Z

One of my favorite things about this Pear and Gorgonzola Salad is how each bite offers a different experience. The sweetness from the pears, the creaminess of the cheese, and the crunch from the walnuts harmonize beautifully. We experimented with adding a splash of balsamic vinegar, which really brought everything together and made the flavors pop!

I recommend toasting the walnuts slightly in a skillet to enhance their flavor. Just keep an eye on them to avoid burning. This quick caramelizing step adds such a warm, sweet aroma that fills the kitchen and invites everyone to the table.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The amazing combination of sweet and savory flavors
Crunchy, homemade candied walnuts take this salad to the next level
A beautiful presentation that makes any meal feel special

      

The Role of Each Ingredient

In this salad, the mixed greens serve as a fresh and crisp base that balances the sweetness of the pears and the richness of the Gorgonzola. Choosing a variety of greens, such as arugula or spinach, can introduce an exciting depth to the flavor profile. I love incorporating baby spinach for its mild taste and tender texture, but feel free to experiment with other greens to suit your preferences.

Pears are the star of this dish, offering juicy sweetness that perfectly complements the tangy Gorgonzola. When selecting pears, look for varieties like Bartlett or Anjou, which are fragrant and buttery. I recommend letting them ripen a bit if they’re still firm; they should yield to gentle pressure when ripe, making them easier to slice and enhancing their flavor.

Perfecting the Candied Walnuts

The candied walnuts are a key component of this salad, providing a crunchy texture and a sweet contrast to the savory cheese. When cooking the walnuts, keep the heat at medium to avoid burning the sugar. Stir constantly until the sugar has fully dissolved and becomes a glossy coating. This process usually takes about 5-7 minutes. If your walnuts stick together when cooling, don’t worry—lightly tapping them apart can restore their individual shapes.

If time is tight, you can also use store-bought candied walnuts, but I highly recommend making them at home for the best flavor. If you’d like to make a nut-free version of the salad, consider substituting toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch without the nuts.

Serving and Storing Tips

This salad is best served immediately after tossing with the balsamic vinaigrette. If you’re planning to prepare it in advance, consider storing the components separately. Keep the mixed greens in a sealed container with a damp paper towel to maintain freshness, and store the sliced pears with a touch of lemon juice to prevent browning. Assemble the salad just before serving to preserve the crispness of the leaves.

If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator for up to a day, but note that the greens may wilt over time. To freshen the salad, consider adding a little more vinaigrette and a sprinkle of fresh walnuts to revive it. This dish is versatile enough to pair with proteins like grilled chicken or fish, making it a great way to enjoy the remaining ingredients.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth preparation process.

Salad Ingredients

4 cups mixed salad greens
2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
100g Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
1 cup candied walnuts
1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette

Check that all your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare your workspace and have all ingredients ready before you begin.

Prepare the Candied Walnuts

In a skillet over medium heat, combine 1 cup of walnuts with 1/2 cup of sugar. Stir frequently until the sugar melts and coats the walnuts. Spread them on a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, toss the mixed greens with the sliced pears. Add the crumbled Gorgonzola cheese and the cooled candied walnuts on top.

Dress and Serve

Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to combine all ingredients and enjoy!

Ensure everything is well mixed and serve immediately for the best taste.

Pro Tips

For a vegan version, substitute Gorgonzola with avocado and use a plant-based dressing. You can also add slices of grilled chicken for extra protein if desired.

Flavor Pairings

To elevate your Pear and Gorgonzola Salad, consider adding sliced figs or dried cranberries for an additional layer of sweetness and texture. These ingredients not only enhance the flavor profile but also add visual appeal to the presentation. The contrasting colors create a vibrant and inviting dish, perfect for impressing guests at a dinner party or holiday gathering.

For a more savory twist, consider sprinkling crispy prosciutto or crumbled bacon on top. The saltiness counters the sweetness of the pears and balances the creamy Gorgonzola beautifully, making the flavors even more complex and satisfying.

Dietary Adjustments

This salad can be easily adapted for those with dietary restrictions. For a gluten-free option, simply ensure that your balsamic vinaigrette is free from any gluten-containing ingredients. Additionally, substitute the Gorgonzola with a dairy-free cheese alternative if there are cheese sensitivities.

Vegans can also enjoy this salad by omitting the cheese and using maple syrup to sweeten the walnuts instead of sugar. Plant-based cheese options can provide a creamy texture while keeping everything vegan-friendly. This recipe is versatile enough to accommodate various dietary needs.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're hosting a larger gathering, scaling the recipe is straightforward. Simply multiply each ingredient by the number of servings you need. For instance, using 8 cups of mixed greens and doubling the amounts for pears, cheese, and walnuts will ensure everyone can enjoy this delightful dish.

When increasing the quantity of candied walnuts, maintain the same cooking process and keep an eye on the color of the sugar; stirring will help to ensure an even coating. This salad holds up well in larger batches, making it an excellent choice for gatherings or potlucks.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the salad in advance?

Yes, but it's best to add the dressing and walnuts right before serving to keep everything crisp.

→ What other cheeses work well in this salad?

You can use feta or goat cheese as alternatives for a different flavor profile.

→ How do I store leftover salad?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, but it's best consumed fresh.

→ Can I use other fruits?

Absolutely! Try using apples or figs for a unique twist.