Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

Ingredients

• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove (grated or minced )
• 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
• ⅛ tsp black pepper (freshly ground )
• ½ small red onion (thinly sliced)
• 5 oz arugula
• 3 pears (any variety)
• 4 to 5 oz goat cheese
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• ½ cup pecans (toasted and cooled)

Steps

1. 1

   (Optional) Soak the onions in a small bowl of ice water for 10 minutes to remove some of their harsh flavors. Drain well, and pat dry with a paper towel.

2. 2

   In a mason jar, combine all of the salad ingredients and shake until well combined.

3. 3

   In a large shallow salad serving bowl, add your arugula greens. Top with pears and onions.

4. 4

   Sprinkle on goat cheese, cranberries, and nuts.

5. 5

   Shake your dressing again if it has separated and drizzle it over the salad just before serving. You can serve with or without tossing; it’s prettier if you don’t toss it, and don’t worry, the dressing will work its way down to the greens.