Pear, Apple & Cranberry Winter Salad with Whipped Goat Cheese Snowflakes is a delightful dish that perfectly encapsulates the essence of winter. Picture vibrant mixed greens topped with sweet pear and apple slices, tart cranberries, and crunchy nuts, all crowned with velvety goat cheese that resembles whimsical snowflakes. This salad isn’t just visually stunning; it’s also a delicious way to warm up during chilly days. Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a cozy dinner, or a refreshing lunch, this recipe brings a burst of flavor to the table, making it a must-try for anyone looking to brighten up their winter meals.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

Why should you make this salad? For starters, it’s a beautiful blend of flavors and textures that will impress your guests and brighten up any winter menu. It’s quick to prepare, with the majority of the work involving simple chopping and mixing, making it perfect for those weeknight dinners when you’re short on time. Plus, it brings together nutrients from the greens, fruits, and nuts, ensuring that your meal is as wholesome as it is delicious.

"This salad was the highlight of our holiday dinner! Everyone loved the unique flavor combination and the whipped goat cheese was a beautiful touch." – Happy Customer

Preparing Pear, Apple & Cranberry Winter Salad with Whipped Goat Cheese Snowflakes

Making this salad is incredibly straightforward, allowing you to indulge in deliciousness without spending hours in the kitchen. Start by whipping the goat cheese to create that fluffy, snow-like topping, then whip up a quick vinaigrette. The entire process is as simple as combining some fresh ingredients, whisking a few things together, and voila! You’ve got a stunning salad that’s sure to impress.

What You’ll Need

Gather these items for a delicious winter salad:

• 4 cups mixed winter greens (arugula, baby kale, or spinach)
• 1 ripe pear, thinly sliced
• 1 crisp apple (Honeycrisp or Pink Lady), thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup toasted walnuts or pecans
• 6 oz goat cheese, softened
• 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt or heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Pinch of salt
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 1/2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
• Cracked black pepper (optional)

Feel free to customize this salad by swapping in your favorite nuts or adjusting the sweetness to your liking!