Fall Pear Salad with Honey‑Dijon Dressing

 

Introduction

This salad is light, crisp, and full of fall flavor. Juicy pears, crunchy pistachios, and sweet pomegranate arils are tossed with peppery arugula and nutty parmesan, all brought together with a simple honey‑Dijon vinaigrette. It’s a refreshing side dish perfect for weeknight dinners or festive occasions.

Ingredients

Salad Base

• Arugula (rocket) – 5 oz / ~140 g

• Pears – 2 ripe (one red, one green), thinly sliced

• Pomegranate arils – ½ cup

• Pistachios – ⅓ cup, roughly chopped

• Parmesan cheese – ⅓ cup, grated

Honey‑Dijon Vinaigrette

• Olive oil – ¼ cup (4 tbsp)

• Apple cider vinegar – 1 tbsp

• Honey – 1 tbsp

• Dijon mustard – 1 tsp

• Salt – ½ tsp

• Black pepper – ¼ tsp

Method

1. Prepare the dressing:

   • In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth and emulsified.

2. Assemble the salad:

   • Add arugula to a large serving bowl.

   • Layer sliced pears, pomegranate arils, pistachios, and parmesan over the greens.

3. Dress and toss:

   • Drizzle the honey‑Dijon vinaigrette over the salad.

   • Toss lightly to coat just before serving.

4. Optional finishing touch:

   • Add a light drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra depth and a pretty finish.

✅ This salad balances sweet, tangy, and savory flavors with a satisfying crunch.