Pear Salad

We pick up a big bag a few times a month when we’re at Costco — which means we go through a lot of pears — and lately this salad has become one of our favorite ways to enjoy them. I threw it together a few weeks ago when we happened to also have some pomegranate arils in the fridge, and my husband and I absolutely couldn’t stop going back for more. It’s just so good.

The sweet, juicy pears pair perfectly with the tangy goat cheese and tart pomegranate, while the toasted walnuts add just the right amount of crunch. Then everything gets tossed together with a light white balsamic dressing that ties the flavors beautifully. It’s fresh, balanced, and elegant enough for holiday gatherings, yet easy enough to whip up for a weeknight dinner. You’re going to love it!

• 5 ounces mixed greens
• 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced (such as Anjou or Bartlett)
• 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
• 1/2 cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped
• 1/3 cup pomegranate arils
• 1 small shallot, very thinly sliced
• freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon white balsamic vinegar
• 2 teaspoons pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
• freshly ground black pepper, to taste