_Picture this: A gorgeous, restaurant-worthy salad that’ll have your dinner guests thinking you secretly enrolled in culinary school! Trust me, ladies (and gents), this showstopper salad is about to become your new go-to when you want to feel fancy without breaking a sweat._
Let me introduce you to my Honey-Glazed Pear and Prosciutto Salad with Candied Walnuts – a combination that’s seriously to die for! As someone who’s tried countless salad recipes (and suffered through plenty of boring ones), this one’s a total game-changer.
Here’s what you’ll need to create this masterpiece:
– 6 cups baby arugula (because regular lettuce is so last season)
– 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
– 4 oz prosciutto, torn into pieces
– 4 oz crumbled gorgonzola (or blue cheese if you’re feeling extra bold)
– 1 cup candied walnuts
– Honey balsamic dressing (I’ll share my secret recipe below!)
For the candied walnuts (trust me, store-bought won’t cut it):
– 1 cup walnuts
– 3 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Pinch of sea salt
For the honey balsamic dressing:
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1 small shallot, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Now, let’s get cooking! 💁♀️
First, let’s tackle those candied walnuts (they’re addictive, so make extra – you can thank me later!). Melt the butter in a non-stick pan over medium heat, add the walnuts and brown sugar, and stir constantly for about 5 minutes until caramelized. Sprinkle with sea salt and let cool on parchment paper.
_Quick pause! If you’re loving this recipe so far, make sure to follow me on Newsbreak for daily recipes that’ll make your taste buds dance! Now, back to our salad…_
For the dressing, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, and minced shallot. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking (channel your inner chef here!). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assembly time! Layer your arugula in a large bowl or platter (presentation is everything, honey!). Arrange those gorgeous pear slices like you’re creating art – because you are! Scatter the prosciutto pieces around artistically (don’t be too perfect, we’re going for effortlessly chic here). Sprinkle with gorgonzola and those amazing candied walnuts you just made. Finally, drizzle with your homemade dressing just before serving.
Pro tip: Want to make this ahead? Keep all components separate and assemble just before serving. Nobody likes soggy salad – that’s just basic kitchen knowledge! 😉
This salad is perfect for date night, girls’ dinner, or when you want to show your mother-in-law that you’ve got serious cooking skills (we’ve all been there!).
I’d love to hear how this recipe turned out for you! Drop a comment below and share your experience – did you add your own twist? Did it impress your guests? And don’t forget to follow me on Newsbreak for more mouthwatering recipes like this one. Trust me, my recipe collection is like your favorite little black dress – reliable, impressive, and always in style! 💋
