🍐🧀 Pear, Brie & Walnut Spinach Salad with Honey Dijon
Mediterranean-Inspired Fresh Salad
📝 Description
This Pear, Brie & Walnut Spinach Salad is a perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and crunchy. Juicy pears, rich Brie cheese, and toasted walnuts sit atop tender spinach, all tossed in a bright honey Dijon dressing. Light yet luxurious, this Mediterranean-style salad works beautifully as a starter, side dish, or light lunch.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Salad
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5 cups fresh baby spinach
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2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
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4 oz (115 g) Brie cheese, sliced or cubed
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½ cup walnuts, lightly toasted
Optional Add-Ins
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Dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds
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Thinly sliced red onion
For the Honey Dijon Dressing
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3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
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1 tbsp Dijon mustard
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1½ tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
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1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
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Salt & black pepper, to taste
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Make the Dressing
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In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, vinegar/lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2️⃣ Assemble the Salad
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Add spinach to a large bowl.
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Top with pear slices, Brie, and walnuts.
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Add optional toppings if using.
3️⃣ Dress & Serve
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Drizzle dressing just before serving.
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Toss gently and serve immediately.
❓ Q & A
Q: What pears work best?
Bartlett, Anjou, or Bosc pears are ideal—sweet but firm.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Prep ingredients ahead, but dress just before serving to keep spinach fresh.
Q: Can I substitute the cheese?
Yes—goat cheese, feta, or blue cheese work beautifully.
Q: Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, naturally gluten-free.
Q: What does it pair well with?
Grilled chicken, salmon, or crusty bread.
