Arugula Pear Salad

Why is it that pears are so overlooked during the Fall season?? They’re SO juicy and packed with flavor! In fact, this easy arugula pear salad recipe has become a staple in my home. With both arugula and pears in season, it’s the perfect Fall salad.

The mix of spicy arugula, juicy pears, earthy walnuts, and tangy maple vinaigrette make this a great option for a main dish and but also the perfect side dish, too! Oh, and make my Fall Charcuterie Board to go with it 🙂

I love how the peppery arugula mixes with the sweet pears; it’s a flavor combo that never gets old. Tossing in those crunchy walnuts for that extra bite, and the tangy maple vinaigrette – it’s such a delicious combination.

I will be keeping this recipe in my back pocket for holiday dinners. Bookmark this and be sure to add it to your Thanksgiving dinner or Christmas dinner spread!

See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities. 

• Baby Arugula – We don’t do boring salads over here! Arugula naturally has a kick to it, so if you like a little spice with your veggies, this is great. It also balances the juicy sweetness of the pears.
• Quinoa – Cooked quinoa adds a protein boost and a nice, nutty flavor that’s a great addition to the fresh ingredients. It gives the salad more substance so this can be served as a standalone meal. 
• Pears – You can use any variety of pears you’d like, just ensure they are ripe and sliced thinly. The sweet juicy pears pair perfectly with the savory elements of the salad.
• Gorgonzola Cheese – Very similar to blue cheese, this cheese adds a creamy, tangy flavor that enhances the overall taste of the sweet pears and spicy arugula. For milder flavor, opt for shaved parmesan cheese. 
• Candied Walnuts or Pecans – I love adding crunch to my salads, so use a hearty nut. They also add a rich, buttery flavor that compliments the other ingredients. It also gives the salad a nice crunch! 
• Red Onion – Thinly sliced red onion adds a sharp, zesty bite that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the pears and the creaminess of the cheese.

Maple Vinaigrette

• Maple Syrup – This natural sweetener adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness. It balances the tanginess of the vinegar and the spiciness of the arugula.
• Fresh Thyme – This fresh herb adds an earthy, aromatic note.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – This vinegar adds a bright, tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the cheese and nuts, bringing a refreshing acidity to the salad.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – A high-quality olive oil adds a smooth, fruity richness that ties all the vinaigrette ingredients together.
• Garlic clove – Minced garlic adds a punch of savory flavor and a hint of heat to the vinaigrette.
• Lemon Juice – Fresh lemon juice adds a zesty brightness and a touch of acidity that lifts all the flavors in the salad.
• Kosher salt – This enhances all the flavors in the vinaigrette.

Bartlett Pears – Bartlett pears are the most common pears. They are juicy and sweet with a buttery texture, so they work for snacks and salads. The smooth flesh of bartlett pears contrasts nicely with the crispness of arugula salad.

Bosc Pears – These have a firmer texture and a more intense sweetness, which holds up well in salads. They have a slightly grainy flesh, with a honey-like flavor that complements the peppery notes of arugula.

Anjou Pears – Mildly sweet with a smooth, dense texture, anjou pears complement the delicate leaves of arugula. They retain their shape well when sliced, adding a crisp, juicy element to the pear salad.

Asian Pears – Also known as apple pears, these pears are incredibly crisp and slightly sweet with a hint of tartness. They’d make for a refreshing bite.

Substitutions

• Candied Nuts: I use raw nuts but if you want more sweetness, try candied pecans or walnuts instead. 
• Fruits: If you’re not a fan of pears, or just want to add some other fruits to the mix, try apples, pomegranate seeds, or cranberries. Each adds its own sweet and tart twist.
• Salad: Substitute arugula with any leafy greens like mustard greens, spinach, or kale.
• Cheese: Use feta or goat cheese, for another creamy, tangy element. If you want a different flavor, try parmesan. 
• Salad Dressing: for a creamier salad dressing, try my creamy balsamic salad dressing or simply add a dash of balsamic vinegar and olive oil on top of your salad. 

How to Make Pear and Arugula Salad

Step 1: Cook quinoa according to package instructions. In a small bowl, whisk together the vinaigrette ingredients.

Step 2: Place the salad ingredients into a serving bowl and top with the maple vinaigrette.

Pro Tips 

• Use ripe pears. This is how you get maximum sweetness and juiciness. You can tell a pear is ripe by gently pressing near the stem; it should give slightly without being too soft.
• Toast the nuts. Toasting pecans or walnuts enhances their flavor and adds a satisfying crunch to the salad.
• Slice ingredients thinly. Thinly sliced pears, red onions, and cheese ensure an even distribution of flavors in every bite.
• Dress the salad just before serving. To keep my arugula crisp and fresh, I add the maple vinaigrette just before serving.
• Store dressing separately. If prepping ahead, store the salad dressing separately in an airtight container to maintain freshness and flavor.

Storing Leftovers

To prepare ahead, pre-slice the pears and make the salad dressing, storing both in airtight containers for up to 2 days. Store assembled arugula pear salad in an airtight container in the fridge and consume it within 2 days. When stored separately, the dressing can last up to 1 week.