Description
Festive Pear & Cranberry Salad
Bring joy to your holiday meal with this sweet and tangy cranberry and pear salad!
Ingredients:
3 cups mixed lettuce leaves
2 pears, sliced into thin wedges
1/3 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup sunflower seeds
1/4 cup ricotta cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp agave syrup
Steps:
Mix olive oil, lemon juice, and agave for a light dressing.
Combine greens with pears, cranberries, sunflower seeds, and ricotta.
Drizzle dressing and mix before serving.
Brighten your table with this colorful salad!
#CranberryJoy
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions to perfectly assemble your festive salad.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, vigorously whisk together the 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of agave syrup until the mixture is fully emulsified. Set aside.
- Prep the Pears: Just before assembling to prevent browning, slice your pears into thin, even wedges. For extra flavor, you can lightly toss them in a teaspoon of the prepared dressing.
- Assemble the Base: In a large, wide salad bowl, add the 3 cups of mixed lettuce leaves. Gently tear any large leaves for easier eating.
- Add Toppings Artfully: Arrange the pear slices over the greens. Sprinkle the 1/3 cup of dried cranberries and 1/4 cup of sunflower seeds evenly across the salad.
- Add the Cheese: Using a teaspoon, dollop the 1/4 cup of ricotta cheese in small mounds around the salad for a beautiful, rustic presentation.
- Final Toss: Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the entire salad. Using salad servers, gently toss from the bottom upwards to coat all ingredients lightly without crushing the delicate pears and ricotta.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a bright starter to a rich holiday meal. It also pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey or glazed ham. For a festive brunch, serve it alongside quiche or savory pastries. To make it a more substantial meal, add grilled chicken or flaked smoked salmon.
How-to Summary
Whisk oil, lemon, and agave for dressing. Slice pears. In a large bowl, combine greens, pears, cranberries, seeds, and ricotta cheese. Drizzle with dressing, toss gently, and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prep components separately. Store dressing in a jar, chop greens, and keep pears in lemon water. Assemble and dress just before serving to prevent sogginess.
What can I use instead of ricotta?
Crumbled goat cheese, feta, or blue cheese offer a tangy twist. For a dairy-free option, use creamy avocado slices.
How do I prevent the pears from browning?
Toss the sliced pears in a little lemon juice or the prepared dressing immediately after cutting to create a protective barrier.
Can I use a different nut or seed?
Absolutely. Toasted pecans, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds would be excellent substitutes for sunflower seeds.
Is there a substitute for agave syrup?
Yes, you can use an equal amount of honey, maple syrup, or even a pinch of sugar dissolved in the lemon juice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Dressing the salad too early: This will wilt the greens and make the salad soggy. Always dress at the last minute.
- Using overripe or mushy pears: Choose firm, slightly ripe pears (like Bosc or Anjou) that will hold their shape when sliced and tossed.
- Not balancing the flavors: Taste your dressing before adding. If it’s too tart, add a touch more agave. If it’s too flat, a pinch of salt can brighten all the flavors.
- Over-mixing after adding ricotta: Toss gently to maintain the cheese’s distinct creamy dollops rather than blending it completely into the dressing.
Conclusion
This Festive Pear & Cranberry Salad is more than just a side dish; it’s a burst of color, texture, and balanced flavor that elevates any holiday table. With its simple steps and make-ahead tips, it’s an effortless way to add a fresh, joyful element to your celebrations. Enjoy the sweet, tangy, and creamy combination that delights the senses and complements richer seasonal fare perfectly.
