Elevate your salad game with this irresistibly flavorful Danish Cheese Salad, a perfect combination of vibrant greens, creamy Danish blue cheese, and sweet, juicy pear slices. This recipe offers a delightful balance of savory and sweet notes, enhanced by the crunch of toasted walnuts and the subtle tang of red onion. Tied together with a luscious homemade dressing of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a hint of honey, this no-cook, 15-minute dish is not only quick and easy but also bursting with gourmet appeal. Ideal as a light lunch or an elegant side dish, this salad serves four and is a delicious showcase of fresh, wholesome ingredients, perfect for any occasion.
1. Prep the salad greens: Rinse and drain the mixed salad greens thoroughly. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or use a salad spinner.
2. Slice the pear: Remove the core and thinly slice the pear into wedges. Set aside.
3. Toast the walnuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, gently toast the walnuts for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until they are golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool.
4. Slice the red onion: Peel and thinly slice the red onion into rings.
5. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper until emulsified.
6. Assemble the salad: In a large salad bowl, layer the mixed greens, pear slices, red onion rings, and toasted walnuts.
7. Crumble the Danish blue cheese: Scatter the cheese evenly over the salad.
8. Drizzle the dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine, ensuring all ingredients are lightly coated.
9. Serve immediately: Divide the salad into individual plates or bowls and serve fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
Calories |
368 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 29.5 g | 38% | |
| Saturated Fat | 9.4 g | 47% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 28 mg | 9% | |
| Sodium | 796 mg | 35% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 17.4 g | 6% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.2 g | 15% | |
| Total Sugars | 9.0 g | ||
| Protein | 11.1 g | 22% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 266 mg | 20% | |
| Iron | 1.9 mg | 11% | |
| Potassium | 457 mg | 10% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.