If you’re looking to impress with a salad that’s both elegant and bursting with fresh flavors, this Pear & Brie Salad Recipe is your new go-to. Combining the peppery bite of arugula with the creamy richness of brie and the sweet juiciness of ripe pears, this salad dances on your palate. Toasted nuts add a delightful crunch, while a simple balsamic vinaigrette ties everything together with just the right hint of tang and sweetness. It’s a dish that looks like you spent ages on it but comes together in a flash, perfect for a light lunch, a starter at dinner, or a special occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each plays its own starring role in balancing texture, taste, and color for the perfect Pear & Brie Salad Recipe. From the crisp greens to the luscious brie and toasted walnuts, every element shines.
- 4 cups arugula (or mixed greens): The peppery greens provide a fresh, slightly spicy base that wakes up your taste buds.
- 2 ripe pears, cored and sliced thinly: Adds natural sweetness and juicy crispness that perfectly complements the creamy cheese.
- 4 oz brie cheese, sliced: A rich and buttery cheese that melts slightly on your tongue, balancing the fresh fruit beautifully.
- 1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, toasted: Toasting nuts enhances their flavor and adds a satisfying crunch to every bite.
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds (optional): These bring bursts of tartness and a pop of color to the salad.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: A smooth, fruity foundation for the dressing that ties all the flavors together.
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar: Offers a complex, tangy note that brightens the entire dish.
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional): Adds a gentle sweetness to balance the acidity in the vinaigrette.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing out and rounding all the flavors.
How to Make Pear & Brie Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by giving your arugula or mixed greens a gentle rinse, then spin or pat them dry so the vinaigrette can cling perfectly without watering down the salad. Core your pears and slice them thinly—this helps them meld beautifully with the other textures. Slice the brie into delicate pieces that will complement rather than overpower each bite.
Step 2: Toast the Nuts
Toast walnuts or pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, shaking the pan frequently to avoid burning. You’ll know they’re ready when they release a toasty aroma and start popping slightly. This extra step elevates their flavor, adding warmth and crunch that’s irresistible in the salad.
Step 3: Make the Vinaigrette
Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. This simple dressing is where the magic happens—it marries the creamy, sweet, and peppery elements with a dash of tang that brings the salad to life.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, gently toss the greens with the vinaigrette, making sure everything is lightly coated. Layer the sliced pears and brie on top, then sprinkle the toasted nuts and cranberries or pomegranate seeds over everything. Give a final gentle toss or leave it layered for a more elegant presentation—either way, it’s going to impress.
How to Serve Pear & Brie Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To take this Pear & Brie Salad Recipe to another level, consider adding a few fresh herbs like chopped mint or basil for a fragrant twist. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt or cracked black pepper over the top just before serving can also sharpen the flavors and add a lovely finishing touch.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with a crusty baguette or simple roasted chicken for a full meal. The light and refreshing quality of the salad balances hearty or rich mains perfectly, making it versatile for both casual dinners and fancy gatherings.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or special occasion, try layering the Pear & Brie Salad Recipe in clear glass jars to show off those beautiful colors. Alternatively, serve it on a large wooden board with the components artfully arranged buffet-style, letting guests build their own salads. Either presentation adds a touch of elegance and fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (which can be rare), store the salad components separately if possible. Keep the dressed greens in an airtight container and add pears, brie, and nuts fresh when ready to serve to maintain crispness and texture.
Freezing
Because this salad relies heavily on fresh, crisp ingredients and delicate cheese, freezing is not recommended. The texture and flavor would suffer, especially with the pears and greens.
Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and cold. If you want to warm any leftovers, it’s better to enjoy the components separately—for instance, gently warmed brie on toast paired with fresh salad on the side.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of brie?
Absolutely! While brie’s creamy texture and mild flavor are ideal, you can swap it for camembert or even a soft goat cheese to give it a slight tang and keep that luscious creaminess.
What kind of pears work best for this salad?
Look for ripe but firm pears like Bartlett or Anjou. They have a lovely sweetness and hold their shape well when sliced, ensuring your salad looks as good as it tastes.
Is it okay to use a different type of greens?
Yes, mixed baby greens or spinach can work beautifully if arugula isn’t your favorite. Just keep in mind that arugula provides a peppery bite that balances the sweetness of the pears and honey.
Can I prepare the dressing in advance?
Definitely! The vinaigrette can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Just give it a quick whisk before tossing the salad to bring everything back together.
How do I toast nuts without a skillet?
You can easily toast nuts in the oven by spreading them on a baking sheet and baking at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes, watching closely so they don’t burn. Let them cool before adding to your salad.
Final Thoughts
There’s something wonderfully satisfying about this Pear & Brie Salad Recipe: it’s simple yet sophisticated, fresh but indulgent, and perfect for so many occasions. Whether you’re hosting friends, enjoying a solo lunch, or looking for a quick dinner that feels special, this salad hits all the right notes. Give it a try—you might just find it becoming one of your favorite go-to dishes!
Print
Pear & Brie Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and elegant Pear & Brie Salad combining peppery arugula, sweet ripe pears, creamy brie cheese, crunchy toasted nuts, and a tangy-sweet balsamic dressing, perfect for a quick, nutritious meal or appetizer in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Salad
- 4 cups arugula (or mixed greens)
- 2 ripe pears, cored and sliced thinly
- 4 oz brie cheese, sliced
- 1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, toasted
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds (optional)
Dressing
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the greens: Rinse and dry 4 cups of arugula or your preferred mixed greens thoroughly, then place them in a large salad bowl as the salad base.
- Slice the pears: Core 2 ripe pears and slice them thinly to ensure even texture and flavor distribution throughout the salad.
- Toast the nuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast 1/4 cup of walnuts or pecans until fragrant and lightly browned, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, 1 teaspoon honey if using, and salt and pepper to taste until well combined and emulsified.
- Assemble the salad: Add the pear slices, toasted nuts, and optional 1/4 cup dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds to the greens. Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients.
- Add the brie: Arrange the 4 oz sliced brie cheese on top of the tossed salad carefully to avoid breaking the cheese slices.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy this Pear & Brie Salad fresh to appreciate the contrast of flavors and textures.
Notes
- For a nut-free version, omit the walnuts or pecans and consider adding pumpkin seeds.
- If you prefer a vegan salad, replace brie with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- To enhance sweetness, drizzle a little extra honey or substitute with maple syrup in the dressing.
- Make sure pears are ripe but firm to avoid mushiness in the salad.
- Toast nuts carefully to prevent burning and bitterness.
