Roquefort Pear Salad with Blue Cheese – A Gourmet Salad Recipe You’ll Love

This Roquefort Pear Salad with Blue Cheese is one of those timeless recipes that proves simple ingredients, when chosen with care, can feel truly luxurious. In traditional European kitchens, salads like this were never an afterthought. They were crafted with balance in mind — sweet fruit, bold cheese, crunchy nuts, and a dressing that quietly ties everything together without stealing the spotlight. 🍐🧀

Roquefort, one of the world’s oldest blue cheeses, has long been paired with pears in classic French cuisine. The sweetness of ripe pears softens the sharp, salty edge of the cheese, creating harmony rather than contrast. Add toasted walnuts for warmth and crunch, a handful of tender greens for freshness, and a gentle vinaigrette made with good olive oil and wine vinegar — and you have a salad that feels refined yet comforting. 🌿✨

This is the kind of dish you serve when you want to impress without stress. It works beautifully as a starter for a dinner party, a light lunch with crusty bread, or even as a sophisticated side to roasted meats. Despite its gourmet reputation, it comes together quickly and requires no fancy techniques — just respect for the ingredients and a calm, traditional approach. So take a breath, choose the ripest pears you can find, and let’s prepare a salad you’ll truly love.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Roquefort Pear Salad with Blue Cheese

For the Salad:

• 6 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, frisée, or butter lettuce work beautifully) 🌱
• 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced (Bartlett or Anjou are ideal) 🍐
• 4 oz Roquefort blue cheese, crumbled 🧀
• 1/2 cup walnuts, lightly toasted 🌰
• 2 tbsp dried cranberries or golden raisins (optional, for gentle sweetness)

For the Classic Vinaigrette:

• 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 🫒
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar or sherry vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp honey (optional, depending on pear sweetness) 🍯
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Step-by-Step Directions for Roquefort Pear Salad with Blue Cheese

1. Begin by preparing your pears. Wash them well, then slice them thinly. There is no need to peel them — the skin adds color, texture, and nutrients. If preparing ahead, toss the slices gently with a few drops of lemon juice to prevent browning. 🍋
2. Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes, shaking the pan often. Remove as soon as they become fragrant and lightly golden. Let them cool completely before adding to the salad. 🌰
3. Wash and thoroughly dry the salad greens. This step is essential — excess water will dilute the dressing and mute flavors. Use a salad spinner or gently pat dry with a clean kitchen towel. 🌿
4. In a small bowl or jar, prepare the vinaigrette. Whisk together the vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), salt, and pepper. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking until the dressing becomes lightly emulsified and glossy. Taste and adjust seasoning. 🫒
5. Arrange the greens in a large serving bowl or on individual plates. Scatter the pear slices evenly over the top, allowing them to sit naturally among the leaves. 🍐
6. Sprinkle the toasted walnuts and dried fruit (if using) across the salad for texture and visual balance.
7. Gently crumble the Roquefort cheese over the salad. Try not to overmix — larger crumbles create pockets of flavor that feel more traditional and indulgent. 🧀
8. Just before serving, drizzle the vinaigrette lightly over the salad. Toss very gently, or leave untossed for a more elegant presentation. Serve immediately and enjoy every bite. ✨

Nutritional Information for Roquefort Pear Salad with Blue Cheese

This salad offers a beautiful balance of nutrients. Pears provide natural sweetness, fiber, and vitamin C, while walnuts contribute heart-healthy fats and minerals. Roquefort cheese, though rich, is used thoughtfully, adding calcium and protein without overwhelming the dish. When paired with olive oil, this salad reflects the spirit of Mediterranean and French-inspired eating — flavorful, satisfying, and nourishing when enjoyed in moderation. 🥗💚

⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes | 🔥 Cooking Time: 5 minutes (walnuts) | ⏳ Total Time: 20 minutes
⚡ Calories per serving: ~320 | 🍽️ Servings: 4

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Bon appétit and happy cooking!

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