Nora
When the weather turns crisp and holiday tables start filling up, this Festive Winter Pear Salad with Balsamic Glaze brings a refreshing burst of brightness to every spread. Juicy sliced pears, peppery greens, crunchy toasted pecans, sweet dried cranberries, and creamy crumbles of cheese come together in a way that feels both elegant and effortless.
Drizzled with a glossy balsamic glaze and a touch of olive oil, every bite balances sweet, tangy, nutty, and savory flavors. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner, Christmas brunch, or simply craving a fresh winter salad, this dish delivers seasonal charm with minimal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Festive Winter Pear Salad with Balsamic Glaze
This salad looks stunning on the table but takes only minutes to assemble. It’s light enough to complement hearty mains, yet flavorful enough to stand on its own.
You’ll appreciate how adaptable it is. Swap the cheese, change the nuts, or add protein to turn it into a complete meal. It’s naturally gluten-free, packed with texture, and perfect for holiday entertaining or everyday winter lunches.
What Kind of Pears Should I Use for This Salad?
The best pears for this salad are firm yet ripe varieties like Bosc, Anjou, or Bartlett. You want pears that hold their shape when sliced thinly and don’t become mushy.
Bosc pears are especially great because they stay crisp and slightly sweet. If your pears are very ripe, slice them just before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.
Ingredients for the Festive Winter Pear Salad with Balsamic Glaze
Using fresh, high-quality ingredients makes all the difference in this simple winter salad.
Mixed Greens
A blend of arugula, baby spinach, or spring mix creates a fresh, peppery base that balances the sweetness of the fruit.
Fresh Pears
Thinly sliced pears add natural sweetness and a juicy bite that defines this salad.
Dried Cranberries
They bring a tart pop of flavor and a festive splash of color.
Toasted Pecans
Crunchy and slightly buttery, pecans add depth and contrast to the soft pears and greens.
Crumbled Blue Cheese or Goat Cheese
The creamy, tangy element ties everything together beautifully.
Balsamic Glaze
A thick drizzle adds rich sweetness and acidity, enhancing every ingredient.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
A light drizzle rounds out the dressing and adds silkiness.
Salt and Freshly Cracked Black Pepper
Simple seasoning sharpens and balances the flavors.
How To Make the Festive Winter Pear Salad with Balsamic Glaze
This salad comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy holiday gatherings.
Step 1: Toast the Pecans
Place pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast for 3–5 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Let them cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Pears
Wash, core, and thinly slice the pears. Leave the skin on for added color and texture.
Step 3: Assemble the Base
Spread the mixed greens evenly on a large serving platter or bowl.
Step 4: Layer the Toppings
Arrange the pear slices over the greens. Sprinkle dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and crumbled cheese evenly across the salad.
Step 5: Drizzle and Season
Finish with a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze and olive oil. Lightly season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve immediately.
Serving and Storing Festive Winter Pear Salad with Balsamic Glaze
This recipe serves 4 as a side salad or 2 as a light main dish.
Serve it immediately after assembling for the best texture. If prepping ahead, keep the dressing separate and slice the pears just before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day, though the greens may soften.
What to Serve With Festive Winter Pear Salad with Balsamic Glaze?
Roast Chicken
A simple roasted chicken pairs beautifully with the sweet and tangy flavors of this salad.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna
Creamy and rich pasta dishes balance nicely with the freshness of this salad.
Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
The crispy, cheesy coating complements the crisp pears and greens.
Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Serve alongside a warm bowl of soup for a cozy winter lunch.
Prime Rib
This salad adds brightness to a hearty holiday roast.
Marry Me Chicken
The creamy sauce in this dish pairs wonderfully with the balsamic notes.
Want More Salad Ideas?
If you love this Festive Winter Pear Salad with Balsamic Glaze, you’ll probably enjoy these fresh favorites:
• Avocado Egg and Chickpea Salad with Lemon and Herbs
https://noranosh.com/avocado-egg-and-chickpea-salad-with-lemon-and-herbs/
• Italian Grinder Salad
https://noranosh.com/italian-grinder-salad-a-bold-and-flavorful-twist-on-a-classic/
• Healthier Waldorf Salad
https://noranosh.com/healthier-waldorf-salad/
• Colourful Rainbow Bean Salad Recipe
https://noranosh.com/colourful-rainbow-bean-salad-recipe/
• Orange Dreamsicle Salad
https://noranosh.com/orange-dreamsicle-salad/
These recipes are perfect for adding color and freshness to your table all year long.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest salad board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you swap the cheese? Add candied pecans? Try a homemade balsamic reduction?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are always welcome—let’s inspire each other in the kitchen.
Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and seasonal favorites on Nora Nosh Recipes and discover your new go-to dishes for every occasion. For even more daily inspiration, follow along on Pinterest:
https://www.pinterest.com/noranoshrecipes/
Festive Winter Pear Salad with Balsamic Glaze
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Bright, crisp, and beautifully balanced, this Festive Winter Pear Salad with Balsamic Glaze is the perfect addition to your holiday table or everyday dinner rotation. Sweet ripe pears, crunchy toasted pecans, tangy dried cranberries, and creamy blue cheese rest on a bed of fresh mixed greens, all finished with a rich balsamic drizzle. It’s an easy recipe that works as a healthy side dish, light lunch, or elegant starter for special occasions. Whether you’re looking for fresh dinner ideas, holiday salad recipes, or simple food ideas to impress guests, this winter salad delivers flavor and color in every bite.
Ingredients
4 cups mixed greens
2 medium ripe pears thinly sliced
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup pecans toasted
1/3 cup blue cheese or goat cheese crumbled
3 tablespoons balsamic glaze
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
1. Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
2. Wash, core, and thinly slice the pears. Leave the skin on for added texture and color.
3. Arrange the mixed greens evenly on a large serving platter or salad bowl.
4. Layer the sliced pears over the greens, followed by the dried cranberries and toasted pecans.
5. Sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese evenly over the top.
6. Drizzle the balsamic glaze and olive oil over the salad.
7. Season lightly with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve immediately for best texture and freshness.
Notes
Avoid overdressing the salad too early. Add the balsamic glaze and olive oil just before serving to keep the greens crisp and prevent the pears from becoming soggy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg