Name: Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad: A Flavorful Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 6 cups Mixed Greens (Consider arugula or mesclun for variety.); 2 Ripe Pears (Thinly sliced, choose firm Bosc or Anjou.); 0.5 cup Blue Cheese (Crumble for creamy texture.); 0.5 cup Toasted Walnuts or Pecans (Substitute with sunflower seeds for nut-free version.); 0.25 cup Dried Cranberries (Optional for a sweet bite.); 0.25 cup Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice (About 2 lemons.); 0.25 cup Olive Oil; 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard; 1 tablespoon Honey; Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper (To taste.)

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As the summer sun warms our days, I often find myself reaching for lighter, vibrant dishes that celebrate the season’s best ingredients. One of my all-time favorites is the Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad. This salad is more than just a simple dish; it combines juicy pears with creamy blue cheese and crunchy nuts, all enveloped in a refreshing honey-lemon vinaigrette. What I love most is its effortless preparation—ready in just 15 minutes—and the way it elevates any meal, turning a casual lunch or dinner into an elegant affair. Perfect for those warm evenings or festive gatherings, this vegetarian delight will undoubtedly impress friends and family. Are you ready to create a burst of summer on your plate?

Why is This Salad a Must-Try?

Freshness at its Finest: The combination of ripe pears and mixed greens delivers a refreshing crunch that brightens any meal.
Creamy Craving Satisfied: Paired with rich blue cheese, each bite is an indulgent experience you’ll adore.
Quick and Easy: This salad can be thrown together in just 15 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dish or last-minute gathering starter.
Versatile Pairing Options: Serve it as a standalone dish, or enjoy it alongside a warm baguette or grilled chicken for a heartier meal. If you’re looking for more vibrant sides, try it with a Cucumber Tomato Salad.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: With its hint of sweetness from the honey-lemon vinaigrette, this salad is sure to be a hit, whether at a summer picnic or a cozy dinner at home.

Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad Ingredients

For the Salad

Mixed Greens – 6 cups provide the necessary base, offering a mix of nutrients and flavors; consider arugula or mesclun for variety.
Ripe Pears – 2, thinly sliced; these are the stars of the show, so opt for firm Bosc or Anjou to keep them crisp.
Blue Cheese – ½ cup, crumbled; this adds a creamy, salty touch, but you can switch it with goat cheese for a milder taste.
Toasted Walnuts or Pecans – ½ cup for crunch and nuttiness; feel free to use sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.
Dried Cranberries – ¼ cup (optional); they add a sweet bite that balances the richness.

For the Vinaigrette

Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice – ¼ cup (about 2 lemons); it brightens the salad beautifully—fresh juice makes all the difference.
Olive Oil – ¼ cup; this creates a rich mouthfeel in the dressing.
Dijon Mustard – 1 teaspoon; it deepens the dressing flavor and helps emulsify the mixture.
Honey – 1 tablespoon; to sweeten the vinaigrette and enhance its complexity.
Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper – to taste; these essentials boost the overall flavor profile.

This Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad is not only a delightful side dish but also an experience that celebrates summer’s finest offerings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Vinaigrette
In a small mixing bowl, combine ¼ cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of honey, and salt and pepper to taste. Using a whisk, mix these ingredients vigorously for about 30 seconds until they are well blended. The result should be a tangy and slightly sweet mixture that sets the stage for your Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad.

Step 2: Emulsify the Mixture
While continuously whisking, slowly drizzle in ¼ cup of olive oil. Keep whisking for another 30-45 seconds until the dressing is fully emulsified and thickened. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture is smooth and glossy. Set this delightful honey-lemon vinaigrette aside so that the flavors can meld while you prepare the salad.

Step 3: Assemble the Greens
On a large serving platter, layer 6 cups of mixed greens as the base of your salad. Aim for an even spread to create a lovely canvas for the rest of your ingredients. Consider using a mix of arugula and spinach for a variety of textures and flavors. This foundation will provide a refreshing crunch for your Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad.

Step 4: Add the Pears
Thinly slice 2 ripe pears and evenly distribute them over the mixed greens. The sweetness of the pears should stand out against the vibrant greens, providing visual appeal and a delightful contrast in flavors. For the best results, opt for firm Bosc or Anjou pears that hold their shape. This step enhances the salad’s fresh, summery feel.

Step 5: Top with Cheeses and Nuts
Sprinkle ½ cup of crumbled blue cheese over the salad, followed by ½ cup of toasted walnuts or pecans for added crunch. If you wish, you can also include ¼ cup of dried cranberries for a sweet pop. These toppings not only provide contrasting textures but also create a beautiful aesthetic that invites everyone to dig in.

Step 6: Dress the Salad
Just before serving, drizzle the honey-lemon vinaigrette evenly across the assembled salad. Aim for an even coating to ensure that every bite is packed with flavor. The dressing should glisten on the ingredients, enhancing the visual appeal of your Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad as well as its taste.

Step 7: Final Toss and Serve
Gently toss the salad to combine all the elements, ensuring the ingredients are well-distributed without bruising the greens. Serve immediately for the freshest experience, and consider garnishing with extra crumbled cheese or pear slices on top for a gorgeous presentation. Your guests will adore the vibrant flavors and textures in this delightful salad!

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Make Ahead Options

This Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad is a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or gatherings, allowing you to prep elements ahead for a quick assembly. You can slice the pears and store them in an airtight container with a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning, keeping them fresh for up to 24 hours. Additionally, the vinaigrette can be made and refrigerated for up to 1 week, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Assemble the mixed greens, toasted nuts, and crumbled cheese in separate containers for optimal freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply layer everything on a platter, drizzle with the dressing, and enjoy a delightful salad that’s just as tasty as when freshly made!

How to Store and Freeze Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad

Airtight Container: Store undressed salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This will help keep the greens fresh and crisp.

Vinaigrette Storage: Keep the honey-lemon vinaigrette stored separately in the fridge for up to 1 week. This allows for optimal freshness and flavor before using it to dress your salad.

Reheating Tips: Since this salad is best enjoyed fresh, avoid reheating. Instead, prepare salad components ahead of time and assemble just before serving for the best taste.

Make-Ahead Option: You can slice the pears and toast the nuts in advance, but store them separately to prevent browning and maintaining crunch in your Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad.

What to Serve with Summer Pear and Blue Cheese Salad?

Imagine a delightful table filled with vibrant colors and flavors, creating the perfect backdrop for a summer feast.

Warm Baguette: A crispy, freshly baked baguette adds texture and is perfect for soaking up the zesty vinaigrette.
Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken enhances the salad’s elegance and provides a hearty protein complement for a complete meal.
Butternut Squash Soup: Creamy and comforting, this savory soup contrasts beautifully against the salad’s refreshing notes, perfect for cozy dinners.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with Mediterranean flavors can round out the meal while maintaining a healthy balance.
Apple Cider Vinaigrette: For an added layer of flavor, serve a side of apple cider vinaigrette to complement the salad’s sweetness.
Lemonade Spritzer: A refreshing lemonade spritzer will invigorate palate, balancing out the rich blue cheese and honey dressing.
Chocolate Mousse: As a finishing touch, indulge in light and airy chocolate mousse—a delightful sweet that pairs wonderfully with the salad’s flavors.
Pistachio Cream Tart: For dessert, this tart adds a nutty, creamy sweetness, creating a harmonious finish after the savory flavors of the salad.

Variations & Substitutions for Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad

Feel encouraged to play around with this delightful salad, tailoring it to your taste preferences and dietary needs!

Goat Cheese: Swap blue cheese for goat cheese for a creamier, milder flavor that appeals to cheese lovers of all ages.
Nut-Free: Replace walnuts with sunflower seeds for a crunchy, nut-free option that still packs a punch.
Maple Magic: Use maple syrup instead of honey in your vinaigrette for a vegan-friendly twist that adds a warm sweetness.

For those wanting extra crunch, consider adding some crispy chickpeas that are roasted with your favorite spices. They’ll add a lovely texture and additional protein to your dish.

Add Fresh Herbs: Toss in some fresh mint or basil for a burst of aromatic flavor that elevates this salad to a whole new level!
Fruit Fusion: Enhance sweetness by adding additional seasonal fruits like sliced strawberries or pomegranate seeds. Each one brings a lovely contrast and color to your salad.
Spicy Kick: Drizzle in a touch of sriracha or red pepper flakes into your vinaigrette for those who crave a spicy flavor boost.

Need more fresh ideas for your meal? Enjoy this salad alongside a vibrant Sunshine Salad for a refreshing accompany. Or, pair it with hearty dishes such as Sausage Egg Cheese for a satisfying feast.

Expert Tips for Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad

Choose the Right Pears: Opt for firm Bosc or Anjou pears to avoid mushiness and ensure they hold their shape in the salad.
Toast Your Nuts: Toast the walnuts or pecans in a dry skillet for 5 minutes to enhance their flavor, making each bite of your salad even more delightful.
Keep it Crisp: Chill your serving bowl beforehand to maintain the freshness of the greens, providing a refreshing crunch in every bite.
Dress Just Before Serving: Assemble your salad in advance but avoid dressing it until right before serving to keep the greens from becoming soggy.
Elevate with Garnishes: Consider adding extra crumbled blue cheese or thin slices of pear on top for an elegant touch that highlights your Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad.

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Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad Recipe FAQs

What type of pears should I use for this salad?
I recommend using firm Bosc or Anjou pears as they add sweetness and juiciness without turning mushy. Look for pears that give slightly to pressure but are not overly ripe, which will maintain their texture beautifully in the salad.

How should I store any leftovers?
To keep your Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad fresh, store the undressed salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This helps keep the greens crisp. Keep the vinaigrette stored separately in the fridge, where it will last up to 1 week for optimal freshness.

Can you freeze the salad or its components?
It’s best to avoid freezing this salad, as the texture of fresh greens and pears can be affected. However, you can toast the nuts and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months, allowing for quick assembly whenever you want to enjoy this dish.

Why is my vinaigrette not emulsifying?
If your vinaigrette isn’t coming together, it may be due to adding the olive oil too quickly. To emulsify successfully, make sure to whisk continuously while slowly drizzling in the olive oil. If the dressing separates after sitting, just give it a good whisk before using it again.

Is this salad suitable for those with nut allergies?
Absolutely! If you or your guests have nut allergies, you can easily substitute the toasted walnuts or pecans with sunflower seeds for a nut-free version. This keeps the texture delightful while ensuring everyone can safely enjoy the salad.

Can I make this salad vegan-friendly?
Yes, you can adjust this Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad to be vegan-friendly by substituting the blue cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative and using maple syrup instead of honey in the vinaigrette. These swaps will keep the deliciousness intact!