Spiced Pear and Pecan Salad 

This Spiced Pear and Pecan Salad is a beautiful blend of seasonal sweetness and savory crunch—perfect for holiday dinners, lunch sides, or a standout potluck contribution. Picture tender pear slices collaring peppery arugula or mixed greens, topped with spiced pecans that crack delightfully with every bite. A silky, tangy dressing—bracing enough to balance the natural sweetness—pulls everything together. With a dynamic mix of textures, warm flavors, and a festive look, this salad shines on any table and showcases how a simple twist can elevate humble ingredients to gourmet heights.

Ingredients

For the Spiced Pecans

• ½ cup pecan halves
  
  

• 1 tbsp maple syrup or brown sugar
  
  

• ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
  
  

• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for subtle warmth)
  
  

• Pinch of sea salt
  
  

• 1 tsp olive oil
  
  

For the Salad

• 4 cups arugula or mixed salad greens
  
  

• 2 firm pears (Bosc or Bartlett), cored and thinly sliced
  
  

• ¼ cup crumbled goat cheese, Gorgonzola, or shaved Parmesan
  
  

• Optional: shaved onions or dried cranberries
  
  

For the Dressing

• 2 tbsp balsamic or sherry vinegar
  
  

• 2 tbsp olive oil
  
  

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  
  

• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
  
  

• Salt and pepper, to taste
  
  

Directions

1. Prep the Spiced Pecans – Preheat oven to 350 °F. Toss pecans with maple syrup, cinnamon, cayenne, salt, and olive oil. Bake 10 minutes, stirring once, until fragrant. Let cool.
   
   

2. Make the Dressing – Whisk vinegar, olive oil, mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until blended.
   
   

3. Assemble – Toss greens and pears with dressing. Top with spiced pecans, cheese, and any optional add-ins. Serve immediately.
   
   

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 250 kcal
  
  

• Total Fat: 18 g (mostly unsaturated)
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 22 g
  
  

• Sugars: 12–15 g
  
  

• Fiber: 3 g
  
  

• Protein: 4 g
  
  

• Sodium: 150 mg