Description
A fresh and crisp Pear Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing that combines juicy ripe pears, mixed greens, shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal), and toasted nuts or seeds. Tossed with a creamy, tangy poppy seed dressing made from Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of honey or maple syrup, this salad is light, vibrant, and perfect for any meal or occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 2 ripe but firm fresh pears, cored and thinly sliced
- 4 cups mixed greens (baby spinach or spring mix)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal)
- 1/2 cup toasted walnuts or sliced almonds
Poppy Seed Dressing
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Wash and dry the fresh greens thoroughly. Core and thinly slice the pears, leaving the skin on for extra texture and nutrients. Lightly toast the nuts or seeds in a dry pan until fragrant, then set aside.
- Make the Poppy Seed Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, and poppy seeds. Stir until smooth and season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust sweetness or tanginess as desired by adding more honey or vinegar.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced pears, toasted nuts, and shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal). Drizzle with the prepared poppy seed dressing and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Serve Immediately: Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or plates. Add optional garnishes such as extra nuts or fresh herbs like mint or basil leaves, and enjoy the refreshing flavors and textures.
Notes
- Choose firm pears to avoid mushy bites and ensure a crisp texture.
- Toast nuts gently to bring out their flavor without overpowering.
- Balance the dressing by tasting and adjusting sweet and tangy components.
- Chill the dressing for at least 20 minutes before dressing the salad to enhance flavor.
- Assemble the salad just before serving to keep greens crisp and fresh.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: Pear Salad, Poppy Seed Dressing, Fresh Salad, Healthy Salad, Light Lunch, Vegetarian Salad, Gluten Free Salad, Nutty Dressing