Pear Salad with Candied Pecans and Pomegranates is a quick, beautiful fall salad made with arugula, juicy pears, crunchy candied pecans, pomegranate seeds, and a tangy Dijon mustard dressing.
Pear Salad with Candied Pecans and Pomegranates
This pear salad is fresh, crunchy, sweet, tangy, and absolutely gorgeous on the table. It is made with peppery arugula, juicy pears, candied pecans, pomegranate seeds, and a simple Dijon mustard dressing.
With every bite, you get a little crunch from the pecans, sweetness from the pears, brightness from the pomegranates, and tanginess from the dressing. It is simple enough for dinner but pretty enough for holidays.
Serve it as a fall side dish, a Thanksgiving salad, or a light lunch with grilled chicken or salmon on top.
Why You’ll Love This Fall Salad
- Ready in minutes
- Beautiful for holidays and entertaining
- Sweet, crunchy, and tangy
- Made with seasonal pears and pomegranates
- Pairs well with chicken, turkey, pork, or salmon
- Easy to customize
A good salad should never feel boring. This one has so many textures and flavors that it feels special even though it comes together quickly.
The pears bring delicate sweetness, the arugula adds a peppery bite, and the candied pecans make the whole thing feel a little fancy without extra effort.
Best Pears For Salad
Use pears that are ripe but still firm enough to slice. Bartlett, Bosc, Anjou, or Comice pears all work well here.
If the pears are too soft, they can fall apart when tossed with the dressing. If they are too firm, they will not have enough sweetness. Look for pears that give just slightly when pressed near the stem.
Candied Pecans Make It Special
Candied pecans add crunch, sweetness, and a toasted nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with pears and pomegranates.
You can use homemade candied pecans or store-bought ones to keep things easy. Walnuts, almonds, or pistachios also work if that is what you have on hand.
Dijon Mustard Dressing
The dressing is simple, tangy, and perfect with the sweet fruit. Dijon mustard gives it body and flavor while balancing the pears and candied pecans.
A mustard dressing works especially well in fall salads because it keeps the salad bright and cuts through richer holiday dishes.
What To Serve With Pear Salad
This salad is beautiful next to roasted chicken, turkey, pork tenderloin, salmon, or pasta. It also makes a lovely addition to Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any fall dinner table.
For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, crumbled goat cheese, blue cheese, or shaved Parmesan.
I hope you can try this delicious pear salad with candied pecans and pomegranates at home. If you do, please upload a pic on Instagram and tag me @Livingsweetmoments or use the hashtag #LivingSweet. I promise to repost it.
Pear Salad with Candied Pecans and Pomegranates
Ingredients
For Candied Pecans
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 cup pecans
For Salad
- 8 oz mixed greens or arugula washed and dried
- 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
- 2 pears cored and sliced
- candied pecans
- Salt +Pepper to taste
For Dijon Vinaigrette
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 teaspoons Dijon Mustard
- Salt +Pepper to taste
Instructions
For Candied Pecans
- Line a tray or plate with parchment paper.
- Melt butter and brown sugar in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add pecans and stir until fully coated, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Spread onto parchment paper and cool completely.
- Break into pieces.
Dressing
- Add olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to a jar.
- Shake until smooth and combined.
Salad
- Add greens to a large bowl.
- Top with pears, pomegranate seeds, and candied pecans.
- Drizzle with dressing and toss gently.
- Season with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm pears for the best texture.
- Arugula adds a peppery bite; mixed greens work too.
- Make candied pecans ahead and store airtight.
- Dress salad right before serving.
- Goat cheese or blue cheese is delicious added on top.
Nutrition
Pear Salad FAQs
Can I make pear salad ahead of time?
You can prep the dressing, wash the arugula, and make the candied pecans ahead. Slice the pears and assemble the salad shortly before serving for the best texture.
How do I keep pears from browning?
Toss sliced pears with a little lemon juice to slow browning before adding them to the salad.
What cheese goes well with pear salad?
Goat cheese, blue cheese, feta, Parmesan, or white cheddar all pair beautifully with pears, pecans, and pomegranates.
Can I use another green instead of arugula?
Yes. Baby spinach, mixed greens, spring mix, or butter lettuce all work well.
Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Yes. Candied walnuts, toasted walnuts, almonds, or pistachios are all delicious substitutes.
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wow. So many amazing recipes and your pictures are great. This salad looks delish.
Thank you so much Anna!
Hi, Tiffany
That’s really looking so good especially, the leafy greens and pomegranate seeds ! I just love this salad. Thanks for putting it together.
You’re welcome Donna! glad you liked it!