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Asiago Arugula Pear Salad Recipe

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3.9 from 64 reviews

This Asiago Arugula Pear Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish combining peppery baby arugula, sweet and crisp Asian pears, nutty toasted almonds, creamy avocado, and sharp Asiago cheese, all brought together by a tangy white balsamic vinaigrette with a hint of maple syrup. Perfect for a light lunch or as a sophisticated side, this salad balances flavors and textures beautifully for a delightful eating experience.

Ingredients

Dressing

  • ⅓ cup olive oil
  • ¼ cup white balsamic vinegar
  • 1-2 teaspoons pure maple syrup (or cane sugar)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 garlic clove, finely minced
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Salad

  • 6 to 8 cups baby arugula
  • 1 to 2 Asian pears, cut into matchsticks
  • ⅓ cup toasted sliced or slivered almonds
  • ½ cup shaved Asiago or Manchego cheese (about 1.5 ounces)
  • 1 avocado, sliced or diced
  • 5 leaves fresh basil, julienned

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, pure maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well emulsified and smooth.
  2. Toast the Almonds: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced or slivered almonds and toast them, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and fragrant, about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let them cool.
  3. Prepare the Salad Ingredients: Wash and dry the baby arugula thoroughly. Core and cut the Asian pears into thin matchsticks. Slice or dice the avocado and julienne the fresh basil leaves. Shave the Asiago or Manchego cheese into thin slices or ribbons.
  4. Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the baby arugula, pear matchsticks, toasted almonds, avocado, and julienned basil leaves.
  5. Toss with Dressing: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together to coat the ingredients evenly with the dressing.
  6. Serve: Transfer the salad to serving plates or bowls. Garnish with the shaved Asiago or Manchego cheese on top. Serve immediately for best freshness and texture.

Notes

  • Asian pears can be substituted with other crisp pears like Bartlett or Bosc for a slightly different flavor and texture.
  • To toast almonds evenly, stir frequently and watch closely to prevent burning.
  • For a vegan option, omit the cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative.
  • The salad is best served immediately to prevent avocado browning and arugula wilting.
  • Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by varying the amount of maple syrup or using cane sugar as preferred.

Find it online: https://justsosavory.com/asiago-arugula-pear-salad-recipe/