As I tossed the vibrant greens into a bowl, the aroma of ripe pears and creamy blue cheese wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a sun-drenched picnic in the park. The Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad is a delightful masterpiece that marries juicy sweetness with savory depth, perfect for warm summer days or light dinner gatherings. This elegant salad not only showcases a gorgeous balance of textures but also boasts an effortless no-cook preparation, making it a true crowd-pleaser. With the zesty lemon-honey vinaigrette tying everything together, it’s a dish that will leave your taste buds dancing and your guests asking for seconds. Curious about how to bring this fresh flavor explosion to your table? Let’s dive in!

Why is this salad a summer favorite?

Freshness reigns supreme in this Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad, making it a go-to for warm weather dining. Bold flavors emerge from the combination of creamy blue cheese and sweet ripe pears, creating a mouthwatering contrast. Quick preparation means no cooking is required—just assemble your ingredients and enjoy! Versatility shines through, as this salad can easily adapt to any occasion, shining as a side dish or a light main course. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, ensuring a guilt-free indulgence. It pairs beautifully with a crusty baguette, or for a heartier option, consider adding grilled chicken!

Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Mixed Greens (6 cups) – Provides a fresh base; arugula or spinach can be wonderful substitutes.
• Ripe Pears (2) – Ensure sweetness and crunch; use firm varieties like Bosc for the best flavor.
• Crumbled Blue Cheese (½ cup) – Adds creaminess and bold flavor; goat cheese can be a milder alternative.
• Toasted Walnuts or Pecans (½ cup) – Delivers crunch and depth; sunflower seeds are great for a nut-free option.
• Dried Cranberries (¼ cup, optional) – Offers a sweet pop; feel free to omit if preferred.

For the Vinaigrette
• Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice (¼ cup) – Infuses acidity; about 2 lemons will do the trick!
• Olive Oil (¼ cup) – Rich base for the vinaigrette; ensures a smooth texture.
• Dijon Mustard (1 teaspoon) – Adds tanginess and aids emulsification.
• Honey (1 tablespoon) – Enhances sweetness; substitute with maple syrup for a vegan-friendly twist.
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper – To taste, elevating the overall flavor of your Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of honey, and a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Continue whisking until the ingredients are fully combined and smooth, about 30 seconds. Set the vinaigrette aside, allowing the flavors to meld while you assemble the salad.

Step 2: Emulsify the Dressing
Gradually drizzle in ¼ cup of olive oil while whisking constantly to create a smooth and creamy emulsion. This process should take about 1–2 minutes, and you’ll know it’s ready when the dressing thickens slightly and takes on a shiny appearance. Once emulsified, set the vinaigrette aside to enhance its flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Greens
Place 6 cups of mixed greens in a large salad bowl or on a serving platter. This serves as the base for your Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad. Make sure the greens are clean and dry, as this will help the vinaigrette adhere better to the leaves.

Step 4: Slice the Pears
Carefully slice 2 ripe pears into thin, even wedges, ensuring they maintain their shape. Layer the pear slices evenly over the mixed greens, creating a vibrant contrast with the greens. The sweetness and juicy texture of the pears will complement the other flavors beautifully.

Step 5: Add the Cheese and Nuts
Sprinkle ½ cup of crumbled blue cheese over the salad, followed by ½ cup of toasted walnuts or pecans for an added crunch. If you like, toss in ¼ cup of dried cranberries for a hint of sweetness. This mix of flavors and textures elevates your Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad to gourmet status.

Step 6: Dress the Salad
Right before serving, drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the salad. Use just enough to lightly coat the ingredients, ensuring that the fresh flavors are enhanced without overwhelming the salad. Pour carefully and evenly to create a lovely presentation.

Step 7: Toss and Serve
Gently toss all the ingredients together with tongs until the greens, pears, and cheese are evenly coated with the vinaigrette. Aim for a light mixing that keeps the texture of the salad intact. If desired, garnish with extra blue cheese or pear slices on top for an eye-catching finish before serving.

Storage Tips for Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad

Fridge: Keep undressed salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days; the greens stay fresh longer without the dressing.

Vinaigrette: Store the lemon-honey vinaigrette separately in the fridge for up to 1 week, ensuring all flavors remain vibrant.

Pre-Prep: If preparing ahead, keep salad components separate and dress just before serving for optimal freshness and taste.

Reheating: This Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad is best enjoyed cold and should not be reheated.

What to Serve with Elegant Pear and Blue Cheese Salad

Fresh, vibrant flavors and delightful textures await as you create a memorable meal to accompany this stunning salad.

Grilled Chicken: Tender grilled chicken breasts add a satisfying protein element, making your salad feel heartier without overshadowing its delicate flavors.
Crispy Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for scooping up salad and soaking in the zesty vinaigrette, enhancing the dining experience.
Roasted Vegetables: Colorful, caramelized seasonal vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers complement the freshness of the salad while adding a satisfying roasted flavor.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or dry Pinot Grigio offers a refreshing contrast, enhancing the sweet and tangy notes of the pears and cheese.
Fruit Sorbet: For dessert, a light, fruity sorbet like lemon or raspberry provides a refreshing end to your meal, echoing the salad’s bright accents.
Quinoa Salad: A side of nutty quinoa salad with herbs and citrus balances the richness of the blue cheese and rounds out the meal for guests craving something hearty.

Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad Variations

Feel free to make this delightful salad your own with these easy and tempting twists!

Goat Cheese: Swap out blue cheese for a softer, milder flavor by using creamy goat cheese instead. This change allows for a sweeter, more subtle taste profile.
Vegan Delight: Replace honey with maple syrup in the vinaigrette to create a deliciously sweet vegan dressing. This small alteration keeps the dish light and plant-based, perfect for any gathering.
Grilled Chicken Addition: For a heartier option, add slices of grilled chicken on top. This will transform your salad into a satisfying main course, ideal for nourishing dinner get-togethers.
Nut-Free Twist: If you’re looking to avoid nuts, try sunflower seeds instead of walnuts or pecans. They provide the same satisfying crunch without the allergens, making the salad accessible for everyone.
Cranberry Omission: You can choose to skip the dried cranberries if you prefer a less sweet salad. This will allow the savory and tangy flavors of the cheese and vinaigrette to take center stage.
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the salad for a spicy twist. The heat complements the sweetness of the pears beautifully, offering an exciting burst of flavor.
Warm Salad: Serve the salad slightly warm by lightly sautéing the pears in a touch of olive oil before adding them to the mixed greens. This adds a whole new dimension of warmth and depth to your dish.
Pairing Suggestions: Consider serving your Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad alongside a slice of crusty bread or a bowl of creamy butternut squash soup to create a satisfying meal.

These scrumptious variations and substitutions are designed to elevate your salad experience while catering to your cravings. Whether you’re looking for a light summer dish or a heartier option, these ideas will help you create a standout salad. If you’re interested in more recipes, check out my Quinoa Salad Bright for a refreshing side or the delectable Baked Pears Cheese for a sweet finish!

Make Ahead Options

These Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad components are perfect for meal prep, saving you valuable time on busy weeknights! You can slice the pears and toss them lightly with lemon juice up to 24 hours ahead to prevent browning. Additionally, the vinaigrette can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 1 week, keeping its flavors vibrant. When ready to serve, simply layer the mixed greens, pears, crumbled blue cheese, and toasted nuts in a bowl, then drizzle your freshly made vinaigrette over the top, toss gently, and enjoy a refreshing salad that tastes just as delicious as when it was freshly made!

Tips for the Best Pear and Blue Cheese Salad

Choose Wisely: Use ripe but firm pears like Bosc or Anjou to prevent them from becoming mushy and ensure they provide that delightful crunch.
Toast the Nuts: Toast walnuts or pecans in a dry skillet for about 5 minutes; this enhances their flavor and adds an aromatic touch to your Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad.
Keep It Fresh: Chill your serving bowl in the freezer for 15 minutes before serving to help keep the salad greens crisp and fresh longer.
Dress Just Before Serving: For the best experience, keep salad components, including the vinaigrette, separate until just before serving to ensure pristine flavors and textures.
Prevent Browning: If you slice pears ahead of time, toss them with a little lemon juice to prevent browning, keeping your salad vibrant and appealing.

Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad Recipe FAQs

What type of pears should I use for the salad?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using ripe but firm pears, such as Bosc or Anjou. These varieties provide a juicy crunch without becoming mushy, making them perfect for your Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad.

How should I store leftovers?
To keep your salad fresh, store the undressed salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The greens will stay crisp without the dressing. Meanwhile, store the lemon-honey vinaigrette separately in the fridge for up to 1 week to preserve its vibrant flavor.

Can I freeze the salad?
It’s best not to freeze the Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad, as the texture of the greens and pears can become mushy once thawed. Instead, I’d suggest preparing the salad components ahead of time but only dressing them just before serving for the freshest experience.

What can I do if my blue cheese is too strong?
If you find your blue cheese overwhelming, don’t worry! You can substitute it with goat cheese for a milder flavor, or you can mix in less cheese and balance it with more crunchy elements like toasted nuts for a pleasant contrast, ensuring a well-rounded taste.

How can I ensure my salad stays fresh when preparing it ahead of time?
Great question! If you plan on preparing the salad ahead, keep all components, such as greens, sliced pears, nuts, and vinaigrette, separate until just before serving. This ensures optimal freshness and prevents any sogginess. If you slice the pears in advance, toss them with a little lemon juice to keep them from browning.

Is this salad suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, indeed! You can easily make the Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad vegan by substituting the honey in the vinaigrette with maple syrup and replacing the blue cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative. This ensures everyone can enjoy this delicious salad!