Easy Autumn Pear Salad with Mozzarella and Pecans

Fresh, crisp flavors shine in this Autumn Pear Salad with Mozzarella and Pecans, perfect for a simple, delicious fall meal or side dish. Juicy pears combine with creamy mozzarella and crunchy pecans, creating a vibrant mix of textures and tastes that celebrate the best of autumn’s bounty. This salad is not only easy to prepare but also versatile and packed with wholesome goodness, making it a must-try for anyone looking to embrace seasonal cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Seasonal Freshness: Harnesses ripe autumn pears for natural sweetness and juiciness.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples that come together quickly.
• Balanced Texture: Combines creamy mozzarella with crunchy pecans for a satisfying bite.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a light lunch, a side salad, or an elegant starter.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things straightforward, focusing on ingredients that each bring essential flavor, texture, and color to the salad. From sweet pears to rich pecans, every component plays an important role in creating an Autumn Pear Salad with Mozzarella and Pecans that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

• Fresh Pears: Choose crisp, ripe pears like Bartlett or Bosc for sweetness and firmness.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (vegetal): Adds a creamy, mild flavor that complements the fruit perfectly.
• Pecans: Toasted for extra crunch and a nutty depth to balance the salad.
• Mixed Greens: A combination of arugula, spinach, or baby kale adds vibrant green color and peppery notes.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Provides a tangy dressing base that brightens the flavors.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Brings richness and smooth mouthfeel to the dressing.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: A touch of natural sweetness to round out the tangy dressing.
• Salt & Fresh Pepper: Enhances and balances all the flavors without overwhelming.

Variations for Autumn Pear Salad with Mozzarella and Pecans

Feel free to make this salad your own by swapping ingredients or tuning the flavors. It’s incredibly easy to adapt to dietary preferences and whatever you have on hand while keeping the core idea of sweet pears, creamy cheese, and crunchy nuts.

• Swap the Cheese: Use goat cheese or vegan cheese for a tangier or dairy-free twist.
• Nut Options: Try walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for a different crunch and taste.
• Add Fruit: Incorporate pomegranate seeds or dried cranberries for bursts of tartness and color.
• Change the Greens: Substitute mixed greens with baby spinach, watercress, or kale for variety.
• Protein Boost: Add grilled smoked turkey slices or chickpeas for a heartier salad.

How to Make Autumn Pear Salad with Mozzarella and Pecans

Step 1: Prepare the Pears and Greens

Start by washing and drying the mixed greens thoroughly. Core and thinly slice the fresh pears, making sure to keep slices uniform for easy eating and presentation.

Step 2: Toast the Pecans

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans for about 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly browned. This step unlocks a deeper flavor and adds wonderful crunch.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, honey, salt, and freshly ground pepper until emulsified and balanced. The dressing should be bright but not overpowering.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced pears, toasted pecans, and shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal). Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Serve the salad quickly to enjoy the fresh textures and flavors at their peak, although it can hold for a short time if dressed just before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Autumn Pear Salad with Mozzarella and Pecans

• Choose Firm Pears: Firmer pears hold their shape better and provide a crisp bite in the salad.
• Toast Nuts Fresh: Toast pecans just before tossing to preserve maximum crunch and flavor.
• Dress Lightly: Add dressing gradually to avoid overdressing and soggy greens.
• Use Fresh Cheese: Freshly shredded mozzarella ensures creamy texture without heaviness.
• Serve Cold: Keep the salad chilled until serving to maintain crispness and freshness.

How to Serve Autumn Pear Salad with Mozzarella and Pecans

Garnishes

Top with extra pecan halves or a few fresh herb leaves such as basil or mint for a bright, aromatic finish that makes the salad look as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with rustic whole-grain bread, roasted root vegetables, or a light soup, creating a complete and balanced autumn meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the salad in clear glass bowls or on a large white platter to showcase the colorful combination of pears, greens, and nuts for an inviting table presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover salad undressed in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day to maintain freshness and texture. Add dressing just before serving again.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well because the pears and greens lose their texture once thawed.

Reheating

Since this dish is served cold, reheating is not recommended. If adding served protein like smoked turkey slices, warm those separately if desired before assembling.

FAQs

Can I use canned pears for Autumn Pear Salad with Mozzarella and Pecans?

Fresh pears are recommended because they have the right texture and natural sweetness which canned pears usually lack.

What type of greens work best in this salad?

Mixed greens such as arugula, baby spinach, and baby kale provide a good balance of flavors and colors, but feel free to use whatever fresh greens you enjoy most.

Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?

By using plant-based shredded mozzarella cheese and ditching honey for maple syrup, this recipe can be easily adapted to suit vegan preferences.

How can I add protein to make this salad more filling?

Adding grilled smoked turkey slices or chickpeas are excellent options for boosting protein while maintaining the salad’s fresh profile.

What dressing options can I try instead of apple cider vinegar?

Grape juice mixed with a splash of lemon juice can be used as a milder alternative to apple cider vinegar for a different but still delicious dressing flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Autumn Pear Salad with Mozzarella and Pecans is an absolute winner when it comes to easy, fresh, and flavorful fall recipes. Its effortless blend of textures and tastes invites you to bring the best parts of the season to your table in minutes. Give it a try and enjoy the crispness and warmth that only autumn ingredients can offer!

Related Posts

• Warm Up with Classic Tomato Soup Today
• Why Healthy Zuppa Toscana is Perfect for Dinner
• Why Chicken Cordon Bleu Sliders Are Irresistible

Print