Hazelnut and Pear Salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, featuring the earthiness of hazelnuts, the sweetness of ripe pears, and the tanginess of Gorgonzola cheese. This salad is a refreshing and elegant option that can be enjoyed as a light lunch or as a side dish with a main course.

The combination of nuts, fruits, and cheese in salads is a classic culinary tradition that has been enjoyed for centuries. Hazelnuts, known for their rich and slightly sweet flavor, have been used in various dishes across different cultures.

Pears, with their juicy and delicate taste, have long been celebrated as a versatile fruit in cooking. The pairing of hazelnuts and pears in this salad brings together complementary flavors and textures, creating a harmonious blend of sweet, nutty, and creamy elements.

The use of Gorgonzola cheese adds a tangy and savory component to the salad, balancing the sweetness of the pears and cherries. This combination of ingredients results in a well-balanced and satisfying salad that pleases the palate.

PREP/TOTAL TIME: 25 MIN.

MAKES: 6 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• ⅓ cup plus ½ cup chopped hazelnuts, toasted, divided
• 2 tablespoons plus ½ cup chopped red onion, divided
• 2 tablespoons water
• 4½ teaspoons balsamic vinegar
• 4½ teaspoons sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 garlic clove, halved
• ⅛ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 package (5 ounces) spring mix salad greens
• 1 medium pear, thinly sliced
• ½ cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
• ¼ cup dried cherries

INSTRUCTIONS

1. For the dressing, place ⅓ cup hazelnuts, 2 tablespoons onion, water, balsamic vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic, and paprika in a food processor. Cover and process until the mixture is well blended.
2. While processing, gradually add olive oil in a steady stream to emulsify the dressing.
3. In a large bowl, combine the spring mix salad greens and the remaining ½ cup chopped red onion. Add ½ cup of the prepared dressing and toss to coat the salad greens evenly.
4. Divide the dressed salad greens among six salad plates.
5. Top each salad with thinly sliced pear, crumbled Gorgonzola cheese, dried cherries, and the remaining ½ cup chopped hazelnuts.
6. Drizzle the salads with the remaining dressing.

Enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors and textures in the Hazelnut and Pear Salad. The creamy Gorgonzola, sweet pears, and crunchy hazelnuts create a delightful contrast in every bite. This salad is sure to impress with its delicious combination of ingredients and the unique flavors it brings to the table.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

• Brunch Delight: Serve the Hazelnut and Pear Salad as part of a brunch spread. Pair it with freshly baked croissants, a variety of cheeses, and a selection of cured meats. This combination of savory and sweet flavors creates a satisfying and balanced brunch experience.
• Entree Upgrade: Turn the Hazelnut and Pear Salad into a main course by adding protein. Grill or roast chicken breasts and slice them into thin strips. Arrange the chicken slices on top of the salad, creating a hearty and filling meal. The combination of the tender chicken, crisp salad greens, and the nutty and fruity elements will make for a satisfying and well-rounded entree.