Ingredients

Caramelized Pecans:

• ½ cup pecans: Adds a crunchy and nutty element.
• ¼ cup white sugar: For caramelizing and adding sweetness.

Mustard Vinaigrette:

• ⅓ cup olive oil: The base for the vinaigrette, providing richness.
• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar: Adds acidity and tang.
• 1 ½ teaspoons white sugar: Balances the acidity of the vinegar.
• 1 ½ teaspoons prepared mustard: Adds tanginess and a bit of heat.
• 1 clove garlic, chopped: Provides an aromatic flavor.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
• Fresh ground black pepper to taste: Adds a hint of spiciness.

Salad:

• 1 head green leaf lettuce, torn into bite-sized pieces: The base of the salad, providing freshness.
• 3 medium pears, peeled, cored, and chopped: Adds a sweet, juicy element.
• 5 ounces Roquefort cheese, crumbled: A creamy, tangy cheese that adds depth and richness.
• 1 medium avocado, peeled, pitted, and diced: Provides a creamy texture and healthy fats.
• ½ cup thinly sliced green onions: Adds a mild onion flavor and freshness.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Caramelized Pecans:
   • In a skillet over medium heat, add ½ cup of pecans and ¼ cup of white sugar.
   • Stir constantly until the sugar melts and coats the pecans evenly, forming a caramelized layer. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
   • Transfer the pecans to a piece of parchment paper or a greased plate and allow them to cool completely.
2. Make the Mustard Vinaigrette:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together ⅓ cup olive oil, 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1 ½ teaspoons white sugar, 1 ½ teaspoons prepared mustard, chopped garlic, ½ teaspoon salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
   • Adjust the seasoning as needed. Set the vinaigrette aside to allow the flavors to meld together.
3. Assemble the Salad:
   • In a large salad bowl, combine the torn green leaf lettuce, chopped pears, crumbled Roquefort cheese, diced avocado, and sliced green onions.
   • Drizzle the mustard vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
4. Finish with Caramelized Pecans:
   • Sprinkle the caramelized pecans over the top of the salad just before serving to maintain their crunch.
5. Serve:
   • Serve immediately and enjoy the combination of flavors and textures!

Cooking Tips

• Caramelizing Pecans: Stir constantly when caramelizing the pecans to prevent burning. Be careful when handling hot sugar—it can cause burns.
• Vinaigrette: For a smoother vinaigrette, you can blend the ingredients in a small food processor or blender.
• Pear Selection: Choose firm, ripe pears to provide the best texture and flavor. Bosc or Bartlett pears work well in this salad.
• Roquefort Cheese: If Roquefort is too strong for your taste, substitute with another blue cheese, like Gorgonzola, or use feta cheese for a milder flavor.
• Avocado Ripeness: Ensure the avocado is ripe but firm. Overripe avocados may turn mushy in the salad.
• Chilling the Salad: Chill the salad ingredients (except for the pecans) in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for a refreshing and crisp texture.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the salad is best enjoyed fresh.
• Vinaigrette: Keep the mustard vinaigrette in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Shake well before using.
• Caramelized Pecans: Store the caramelized pecans separately in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their crunch.

Nutritional Information (approximate per serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Protein: 6-8 grams
• Fat: 30-35 grams
• Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams
• Fiber: 5-6 grams

Conclusion

This Roquefort Pear Salad is a celebration of contrasting flavors and textures, from the sweetness of the pears and caramelized pecans to the tangy, creamy Roquefort cheese. The mustard vinaigrette adds a delightful zing that ties everything together. Whether you serve it as a starter, side dish, or light meal, this salad is sure to impress with its vibrant taste and beautiful presentation. Perfect for any occasion, it’s both easy to prepare and delicious to eat—making it a must-try recipe!

Enjoy this flavorful salad, and feel free to share it with friends and family. Your feedback is always welcome!