Pear salad with blue cheese is a beautiful example of how contrasting flavors and textures can come together to create something elegant and satisfying. The crisp sweetness of fresh pear plays perfectly against the bold, creamy tang of blue cheese, creating a salad that feels light yet indulgent. Whether served as a starter, a side, or even a light main course, this salad is a timeless choice for anyone who enjoys bold flavor pairings.
The foundation of this salad is, of course, ripe pears. Varieties like Bartlett, Bosc, or Anjou are ideal for their sweet flavor and firm texture. When sliced thin, they offer a delicate juiciness that complements the sharpness of the cheese without overpowering it. Blue cheese adds a luxurious creaminess and pungent depth that transforms each bite into something memorable. Gorgonzola and Roquefort are popular choices, but even a milder blue can bring the right amount of contrast.
To balance out the richness, the salad often includes crisp greens like arugula, spinach, or mixed spring lettuces. Candied or toasted walnuts or pecans add crunch and a nutty richness that ties the elements together. A simple vinaigrette made with balsamic vinegar or lemon juice, olive oil, and a touch of honey enhances the fruitiness of the pears and mellows the intensity of the cheese.
What makes pear salad with blue cheese especially appealing is its versatility. It pairs beautifully with roast meats, hearty grain dishes, or crusty bread. It works in both warm and cold months, transitioning effortlessly from a holiday dinner table to a light summer lunch. You can add sliced red onions for bite, dried cranberries for sweetness, or even a few thin slices of prosciutto to make it more filling.
This salad is proof that simple ingredients, when thoughtfully combined, can make a dish feel sophisticated and special. It’s a celebration of seasonal produce, creamy indulgence, and well-balanced flavor.

Ingredients
- 1 ripe pear sliced
- 2 cups mixed greens fresh
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese can substitute with Gorgonzola if preferred
- 1/4 cup toasted walnuts chopped
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette for dressing
Instructions
- Place mixed greens on a serving plate or bowl.
- Arrange pear slices over the greens.
- Sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese and toasted walnuts over the salad.
- Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette before serving.
I dunno…gorgonzola instead of blue cheese? Isn’t that kinda the same? The whole thing seemed a bit dry to me
Absolutely loved this recipe! The flavors blend so well together. The sweetness of the pear with the tangy blue cheese is just stunning!
What can I sub for mixed greens? We got spinach in the fridge.
Can you use a different dressing? Balsamic makes it too sweet for my taste.
So simple but so delish! Perfect for summer picnics. 🍐🥗
I was sceptical about putting fruit in a salad but WOW! I loved this mix. Who knew?!
Really? Fruit in a salad seems weird to me. Is it really that good? I might try it but I’m not convinced!
I totally agree! Adding fruit really takes it to the next level. This is my new favorite salad! 🍐❤️
Meh. I mean, it’s a salad. How great can it really be?
I get where you’re coming from, but salad can be more than just leaves! The mix of flavors here is amazing! 🤤
This was easy and quick. I added strawberries because I had some. So good!
I thought Pears were too sweet for salad, but turns out they are perfect with the blue cheese. Good combo!
Salad? Nah, where’s the meat?
Gorgonzola is WAY better than blue cheese! Just sayin’.
Can you really call this a recipe? Throwing some things together isn’t cooking!
I think simple recipes like this can be just as valid! Sometimes less is more, you know? 🌱
This ain’t even cooking! Just throwing stuff on a plate. Where’s the actual skill?
Tried this recipe and it was absolutely delicious! Will make again.
This salad was bleh… not my thing. Maybe too healthy for my taste?
This is not a full meal. I had to eat something else after! Kind of lame.
But, like, salads aren’t supposed to be filling! That’s why we eat them, right? 😅
I thought it was a nice light dish! Perfect as a side. Maybe try adding some protein next time?
This salad is so refreshing! I love the combination of flavors.
IDK, I think blue cheese is too strong for a salad. Gorgonzola might be better.
I love blue cheese in salads! It adds such a nice flavor. But if you prefer Gorgonzola, that works too!
Nah, blue cheese is where it’s at! Gorgonzola ain’t the same, you know?
Ehh, it was okay. I think the blue cheese is kinda stinky and not my style.
I actually love blue cheese! It adds such a strong flavor to the salad. Maybe try it with feta next time?
Blue cheese is the best! But hey, everyone has their taste. Did you like the walnuts at least?
Salad? Did they say this was a salad? Looks like a snack to me. 😂
I thought the same! Looks more like a fancy appetizer. 😂 But it does sound delicious! 😋
I dont like salads usually, but this one has a nice crunch and the balsamic is yum.
I’m not a salad fan either, but this one sounds awesome! The crunchy pears must be great with the cheese!
I don’t like walnuts, can I use almonds instead? 🤔
This salad is amazing! The blue cheese really adds a nice kick to it. Definitely making it again!
Uh, didn’t have any walnuts. Used peanuts instead… still turned out alright!
Peanuts? That’s different! I never thought of that, but I’m glad it still worked! Planning to try it now!
Wasn’t sure about blue cheese, but actually loved it! Will definitely make again.
Really? Blue cheese seems strong to me. I’m not sure I’d like it. Gorgonzola is better?
I’m glad you liked it! Blue cheese can be a game changer in salads. Definitely trying this soon!
This salad is amazing! The flavors mix so well together. I added some grilled chicken too!
I didn’t have walnuts so I used peanuts and it was still good. But not as fancy, lol.
Not bad, but the blue cheese was a bit too strong for my taste. Maybe use feta next time?
Yum! Pears and blue cheese are a match made in heaven! 😍
This salad is absolutely divine! The flavors blend so well. I’m definitely making it again.
Too simple for my taste. I like my salads to have more ingredients!
Yum! This salad is fancy enough for guests but easy to throw together. Love it!
My kids wouldn’t eat this. Too fancy for them. 😒
I totally get it! Kids can be super picky. Maybe try adding some apples instead? They might like that more!
Never use walnuts, always pecans for me. Still tasted good, tho.