Can I use canned pears instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use canned pears if you're in a pinch, but fresh pears are always preferred for a Pear Salad with Walnuts . Fresh pears provide a crisp bite and natural sweetness that canned varieties usually lack. If you go with canned, drain them thoroughly and pat them dry to avoid watering down your salad.

What kind of walnuts should I use?

You can use raw, toasted, or candied walnuts depending on your flavor preference. Toasted walnuts bring out a richer, nuttier flavor, while candied ones add sweetness and crunch. Whichever you choose, make sure the walnuts are fresh—stale nuts can ruin the taste of your Pear Salad with Walnuts .

Is this salad suitable for vegans?

Absolutely. The base recipe for Pear Salad with Walnuts can be vegan-friendly. Just skip the cheese or substitute it with a plant-based alternative. Also, be sure to use a dressing without honey or dairy. A balsamic vinaigrette or a lemon-olive oil blend works well.

How do I stop the pears from browning?

Toss sliced pears in fresh lemon juice to prevent them from oxidizing. This trick not only keeps your Pear Salad with Walnuts visually appealing but also adds a bright citrusy touch that complements the dish.

Can I prep this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep each component in advance and assemble just before serving. Store pears separately in lemon water, keep greens and walnuts dry, and refrigerate the dressing in a sealed jar. Assemble your Pear Salad with Walnuts within a few hours of eating for best texture and taste.

What’s a good substitute for walnuts?

If you're allergic to walnuts or want to switch things up, try pecans, almonds, or even roasted pumpkin seeds. They all add a similar crunch and nutty flavor that works beautifully in any Pear Salad with Walnuts variation.

Pear Salad with Walnuts – The Best 5-Minute Fresh & Crunchy Recipe

Ingredients

Scale

2 ripe pears

5 oz mixed greens

½ cup walnuts

¼ cup cheese (goat, feta, or blue)

¼ cup dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds

2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

3 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp honey or maple

½ tsp Dijon mustard

Lemon juice, salt, pepper

Instructions

Toast or candy walnuts.

Slice pears and toss in lemon juice.

Mix dressing ingredients in a jar.

Layer greens, pears, cheese, nuts, and toppings.

Drizzle dressing just before serving.

Author: Nick
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: No-cook
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate (~1/4 of recipe)
Calories: 290 kcal
Sugar: 12 g
Sodium: 210 mg
Fat: 22 g
Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 16.5 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 6 g
Cholesterol: 10 mg

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