Greens with Fruit, Cheese, and Nuts

This delightful salad combines the freshness of mixed greens with the sweetness of fruit, the richness of cheese, and the crunch of nuts. The classic combination of pears, Gorgonzola, and walnuts serves as a starting point, but feel free to experiment with different fruits, cheeses, and nuts to suit your taste. Whether you choose to use fresh or dried fruit, the result is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Tossed with a vinaigrette, this salad makes a perfect side dish or light lunch option.

MAKES: 4 servings

TIME: 20 to 30 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

• About 1 pound fresh fruit or 1 cup dried fruit
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 pound Gorgonzola or other blue cheese
• 3/4 cup shelled walnuts or any other preferred nut
• 6 cups mixed greens, like mesclun, torn into bite-sized pieces
• About 1/2 cup Vinaigrette

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. If using fresh fruit, peel and core as necessary, and cut into 1/2-inch chunks or thinly slice. If using dried fruit, toss it with the vinaigrette. Toss the fresh fruit with lemon juice. Cover and refrigerate the fruit and dried fruit (if using) until needed, for up to 2 hours.
2. Crumble the Gorgonzola or blue cheese into small bits. Cover and refrigerate until needed.
3. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts or preferred nuts, shaking the pan frequently until aromatic and beginning to darken in color, for 3 to 5 minutes.
4. When ready to serve, toss the fruit, cheese, and mixed greens together with as much vinaigrette as desired.
5. Coarsely chop the toasted nuts and sprinkle them over the salad.
6. Serve and enjoy.

VARIATIONS:

5 GOOD FRUIT, CHEESE, AND NUT COMBINATIONS:

• Grapes, Parmesan, and pine nuts.
• Fresh or dried apples, blue cheese, and walnuts.
• Fresh or dried figs or apricots, goat cheese, and pecans.
• Oranges or dried cherries, manchego cheese, and almonds.
• Melon (cantaloupe, honeydew, or watermelon), feta cheese, and hazelnuts.

USES:

• Serve as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish.
• Enjoy as a light and satisfying lunch on its own.
• Pair with crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Prepare in larger quantities for potlucks or gatherings.

This greens with fruit, cheese, and nuts salad offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. With endless possibilities for variation, you can adapt the salad to your preferences and explore different fruit, cheese, and nut combinations. The tanginess of blue cheese, the sweetness of fruits, and the crunch of nuts create a harmonious blend when tossed with mixed greens and a flavorful vinaigrette. Whether you enjoy it as a side dish or a light lunch, this salad is sure to impress. Take the opportunity to experiment with different flavor combinations and make it your own. So go ahead, toss together this vibrant and delicious salad and savor the perfect balance of flavors and textures.