If you are searching for a fresh, vibrant, and effortlessly elegant salad, then this Asiago Arugula Pear Salad Recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. It strikes the perfect balance between peppery arugula, sweet and crisp Asian pears, and the rich savoriness of shaved Asiago cheese. The toasted almonds add a delightful crunch while the homemade balsamic-maple dressing ties every bite together with a harmonious blend of tang and subtle sweetness. This salad isn’t just a side—it’s a celebration of contrasting textures and flavors that feels both sophisticated and inviting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with two layers of fresh green arugula leaves with rough edges, mixed with thin white strips of peeled vegetable on top; a silver metal cup is pouring a smooth yellow dressing over the salad from above, with a woman's hand holding the cup. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients is key to nailing the fresh and balanced flavor profile of the Asiago Arugula Pear Salad Recipe. Each component contributes something special, whether it’s the peppery greens, creamy avocado, or the nutty almonds that add personality to the mix.

Olive oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil to create a smooth and fruity dressing base.
White balsamic vinegar: Offers a milder acidity and subtle sweetness that complements the pears beautifully.
Pure maple syrup (or cane sugar): Adds natural sweetness to counterbalance the tanginess of the vinegar.
Dijon mustard: Gives the dressing a slight kick and helps emulsify the ingredients.
Garlic clove: Finely minced for a gentle aromatic punch that elevates the dressing.
Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors in the salad.
Freshly ground black pepper: Adds brightness and a subtle heat to the dressing and salad.
Baby arugula: The salad’s peppery green base, tender yet boldly flavored.
Asian pears: Crisp and juicy, they bring a sweet crunch and beautiful texture.
Toasted sliced or slivered almonds: Provide a nutty crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy avocado.
Shaved Asiago or Manchego cheese: Adds salty, buttery richness to the salad.
Avocado: Creamy and lush, it balances the peppery and tangy elements perfectly.
Fresh basil leaves: Julienned for a fresh herbal note and an aromatic lift.

How to Make Asiago Arugula Pear Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by whisking together ⅓ cup of olive oil with ¼ cup of white balsamic vinegar, 1 to 2 teaspoons of pure maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard in a small bowl. Add the finely minced garlic clove, ¼ teaspoon kosher salt, and a few grinds of black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until emulsified and smooth. This dressing will bring together all the flavors of the salad with its perfect balance of acidity, sweetness, and a little sharpness from the mustard.

Step 2: Prep the Salad Ingredients

Wash and dry 6 to 8 cups of baby arugula, then place it in a large salad bowl. Cut 1 to 2 Asian pears into thin matchsticks—this shape makes them easy to mix with the greens and ensures every forkful captures that refreshing sweetness. Toast ⅓ cup sliced or slivered almonds in a dry pan over medium heat until golden and fragrant, then let them cool.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Add the pear matchsticks, toasted almonds, and 5 leaves of fresh basil, julienned, on top of the arugula. Scatter ½ cup of shaved Asiago (or Manchego) cheese evenly across the salad. Add the sliced or diced avocado last to keep it looking fresh and appealing. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together just before serving, ensuring each leaf and slice is lightly coated but not drenched.

How to Serve Asiago Arugula Pear Salad Recipe

A white bowl filled with a fresh salad made mostly of bright green arugula leaves mixed with thin white strips of another vegetable, probably jicama or pear, creating a light texture contrast. Two silver spoons are partially buried in the salad, one near the top right and the other near the bottom left of the bowl. Around the bowl, there are scattered small arugula leaves on a white marbled surface. Near the bottom left corner of the image, there is a small white pitcher with light yellow dressing inside. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate this salad visually and texturally, add a few extra toasted almonds on top for crunch and some freshly cracked black pepper for a slight kick. A few whole basil leaves can also add a pop of color and a burst of fragrant herbiness, making the salad even more inviting.

Side Dishes

This Asiago Arugula Pear Salad Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of mains. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or salmon for a wholesome meal, or complement it with a rustic baguette and a selection of cheeses for an elegant lunch. Its vibrant, fresh quality makes it a perfect foil to rich, hearty dishes or as a light starter.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning table display, try layering the salad ingredients in a clear glass trifle bowl or arranging individual portions in delicate small bowls or plates. You can also serve the salad atop toasted baguette slices as an open-faced salad appetizer, allowing those inviting flavors to pop through in each bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover salad components separately in airtight containers when possible—keep the dressing away from the greens to prevent wilting. The arugula and pears are best kept refrigerated for up to one day to maintain their crispness and freshness.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this salad. The delicate texture of the arugula, avocado, and pears does not hold up well to freezing, and the creamy texture of the cheese and dressing will change upon thawing.

Reheating

This salad is best served fresh and cold. Since it contains fresh produce and cheese, reheating is not necessary and will detract from its refreshing qualities.

FAQs

Can I substitute the Asiago cheese with another type?

Absolutely! Manchego is a great alternative that provides a similar salty, nutty flavor. You can also try Parmesan or Pecorino Romano, but keep in mind that their stronger flavors might change the overall taste slightly.

What if I can’t find Asian pears—what’s a good substitute?

If Asian pears aren’t available, crisp green apples or Bosc pears work well too. They offer a similar balance of sweetness and crunch, keeping the salad’s refreshing character intact.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

To make this recipe vegan-friendly, simply omit the Asiago cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative. Make sure to double-check that your dressing ingredients align with your dietary preferences as well.

Can I prepare the dressing ahead of time?

Yes! The dressing can be made up to two days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a good whisk before using since the ingredients may separate over time.

What texture does the avocado add to the salad?

The avocado adds a creamy, smooth texture that complements the peppery arugula and crisp pears beautifully. It creates a lovely contrast, balancing the salad’s crispness with richness and softness.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about this Asiago Arugula Pear Salad Recipe—it combines complexity and comfort in every fresh, crunchy, and creamy bite. I encourage you to give it a try whether you’re looking for a stunning salad to impress guests or a satisfying, flavorful addition to your everyday meals. Once you taste it, you’ll understand why it’s one of those dishes you’ll want to keep coming back to again and again.

Asiago Arugula Pear Salad Recipe