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Fresh Asian Pear and Arugula Salad Recipe with Easy Ginger Vinaigrette

fresh asian pear and arugula salad - featured image

A bright and refreshing salad combining crisp Asian pears, peppery arugula, and a zingy ginger vinaigrette. Perfect for a quick, light meal or side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 fresh Asian pears, thinly sliced
  • 4 cups fresh arugula, washed and dried
  • 1/4 cup toasted almonds or walnuts, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely grated
  • 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce or tamari
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Toast the nuts: Place almonds or walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from heat and let cool.
  2. Prepare the pears: Wash and dry Asian pears. Slice thinly about 1/8-inch thickness. Lay slices on a plate to prevent sticking.
  3. Slice the onions: If using, thinly slice red onion. Soak in cold water for 5 minutes, then drain well.
  4. Make the ginger vinaigrette: Combine grated ginger, rice vinegar, olive oil, honey, soy sauce, salt, and pepper in a small bowl or jar. Whisk or shake until emulsified. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. Toss the salad: In a large bowl, combine arugula, sliced pears, toasted nuts, and onions. Drizzle vinaigrette over and toss gently to coat evenly.
  6. Add cheese (optional): Sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese over the salad.
  7. Serve immediately to maintain crispness of arugula and crunch of pears.

Notes

Use fresh ginger for best flavor. Do not overdress the salad to avoid wilting arugula. Toast nuts just before serving for maximum crunch. Slice pears thinly for delicate texture. Prepare dressing ahead but toss salad just before serving to keep freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Asian pear salad, arugula salad, ginger vinaigrette, fresh salad, quick salad, healthy lunch, easy salad recipe