Rocket and Pear Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for busy days.
• Flavorful Combination: The peppery rocket, sweet pears, and savory parmesan create a harmonious blend of flavors.
• Versatile: Ideal as a side dish or a light main course.
• Elegant Presentation: Despite its simplicity, this salad looks beautiful on the plate.

Ingredients

• 120g rocket (arugula)
• 2 medium-sized pears (e.g., Beurre Bosc)
• 30g fresh parmesan, shaved
• 2 tablespoons pine nuts

Dressing:

• 1 tablespoon wholegrain mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fine salt, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Toast the Pine Nuts: In a small frying pan over medium heat, toast the pine nuts until lightly browned. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, combine the wholegrain mustard, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, and fine salt to taste. Mix well and set aside.
3. Slice the Pears: Core and thinly slice the pears. Immediately add the pear slices to the bowl with the dressing and toss to coat, preventing browning.
4. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, place the rocket leaves. Add the shaved parmesan, toasted pine nuts, and dressed pear slices, including any remaining dressing from the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
5. Serve: Serve the salad immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors and crisp textures.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 4 as a side dish.
• Preparation Time: Approximately 15 minutes.

Variations

• Nuts: Substitute walnuts or almonds for pine nuts to introduce a different crunch and flavor.
• Cheese: Replace parmesan with goat cheese or blue cheese for a creamier texture and tangier taste.
• Fruits: Use apples or figs instead of pears to vary the sweetness and seasonal availability.
• Greens: Mix in other leafy greens like spinach or watercress to add variety to the salad base.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: This salad is best enjoyed immediately. If necessary, store the components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
• Reheating: Reheating is not recommended, as the fresh ingredients may wilt or lose their texture.

FAQs

What type of pears work best for this salad?

Beurre Bosc pears are recommended for their sweetness and firm texture, but other varieties like Anjou or Bartlett can also be used.

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

It’s best to prepare and serve the salad immediately to maintain freshness. However, you can toast the nuts and prepare the dressing ahead of time, storing them separately until ready to assemble.

How can I prevent the pears from browning?

Tossing the pear slices in the dressing immediately after slicing helps prevent oxidation and browning.

Is there a substitute for rocket (arugula)?

Yes, you can use other leafy greens like baby spinach or watercress as alternatives.

What can I use instead of pine nuts?

Walnuts, almonds, or pecans can be used as substitutes for pine nuts.

How do I shave parmesan cheese?

Use a vegetable peeler to create thin shavings of parmesan cheese.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Yes, grilled chicken or prosciutto can be added for extra protein.

What dressing variations can I try?

A balsamic vinaigrette or honey-mustard dressing can be used for a different flavor profile.

Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this salad is vegetarian-friendly.

Can I make this salad vegan?

To make it vegan, omit the parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

Conclusion

This Rocket and Pear Salad with Parmesan is a quick, flavorful, and elegant dish that balances peppery, sweet, and savory elements. Its simplicity and versatility make it a delightful addition to any meal, whether as a side dish or a light main course. Enjoy the fresh ingredients and harmonious flavors that come together in this delightful salad.

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