This elegant salad balances the sharp, salty bite of Roquefort cheese with the sweet juiciness of ripe pears and the peppery freshness of watercress and red leaf lettuce. The standout feature is the innovative dressing, which uses strong brewed Earl Grey tea to add a subtle floral aroma and depth to the classic vinegar and walnut oil base. It’s a perfect dish for a light lunch, a dinner party starter, or a sophisticated side dish. The combination of texturesâÂÂfrom the crisp greens to the creamy cheese and crunchy walnutsâÂÂmakes every bite interesting. Simple to assemble yet impressive in flavor, this salad brings a unique twist to traditional green salads.
Roquefort, Pear & Watercress Salad
Description
This elegant salad balances the sharp, salty bite of Roquefort cheese with the sweet juiciness of ripe pears and the peppery freshness of watercress and red leaf lettuce. The standout feature is the innovative dressing, which uses strong brewed Earl Grey tea to add a subtle floral aroma and depth to the classic vinegar and walnut oil base. It&# 226;ÂÂs a perfect dish for a light lunch, a dinner party starter, or a sophisticated side dish. The combination of texturesâÂÂfrom the crisp greens to the creamy cheese and crunchy walnutsâÂÂmakes every bite interesting. Simple to assemble yet impressive in flavor, this salad brings a unique twist to traditional green salads.Ingredients
Directions
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In a small bowl, whisk together the brewed tea, vinegar, walnut oil, minced shallots, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until emulsified.
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In a large salad bowl, combine the torn red leaf lettuce and watercress.
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Pour the dressing over the greens and toss gently to coat evenly.
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Divide the dressed greens among four salad plates.
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Decoratively arrange the sliced pear pieces over the lettuce mixture on each plate.
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Sprinkle the crumbled Roquefort cheese and toasted walnuts on top of each salad.
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Garnish with a final grinding of fresh black pepper before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 20.3kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 1.2g2%
- Saturated Fat 0.5g3%
- Cholesterol 6.1mg3%
- Sodium 5.4mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 0.0g0%
- Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
- Sugars 0.0g
- Protein 2.2g5%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
The dressing can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Allow it to come to room temperature and whisk again before using.
For best results, use Earl Grey tea for its distinct bergamot flavor which complements the pear and cheese.
Ensure the pear is ripe but still firm enough to slice without becoming mushy. Anjou or Bosc pears work well.
Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant to enhance their flavor and crunch.
This salad is best served immediately after dressing to prevent the greens from wilting.
