Frisée Pear Blue Cheese Bowl

The Frisée Pear Blue Cheese Bowl is a vibrant and refreshing salad that masterfully balances flavors and textures. Featuring the slight bitterness of frisée lettuce, the sweetness of ripe pears, and the sharp tang of blue cheese, this dish is elevated by the inclusion of crispy prosciutto for a perfect salty crunch.

Pin It

Tossed in a zesty vinaigrette made with Dijon mustard and honey, this salad offers a modern European flair. It is a light yet satisfying dish that works equally well as a starter or a refreshing lunch bowl.

Ingredients

• 1 large head frisée lettuce, washed and torn into bite-size pieces
• 2 ripe pears, cored and thinly sliced
• 100 g (about 3.5 oz) blue cheese, crumbled
• 4 slices prosciutto
• 40 g (1/3 cup) walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
• 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp honey
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add prosciutto slices and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to cool, then break into bite-size pieces.

Step 2

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper to create the vinaigrette.

Step 3

Place frisée in a large salad bowl. Add sliced pears, blue cheese, toasted walnuts, and crispy prosciutto.

Step 4

Drizzle with the vinaigrette and toss gently to combine.

Step 5

Serve immediately, garnished with extra blue cheese or walnuts if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best results, use a salad spinner to ensure the frisée lettuce is completely dry before tossing. This allows the zesty vinaigrette to adhere perfectly to the leaves without being watered down.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Feel free to substitute Gorgonzola or Roquefort for a different blue cheese flavor profile. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the prosciutto or replace it with roasted chickpeas for a similar crunchy texture.

Serviervorschläge

This Frisée Pear Blue Cheese Bowl pairs beautifully with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Riesling. It is best served immediately after tossing to maintain the crispness of the greens and prosciutto.

Pin It

Whether served as an elegant appetizer or a refreshing main, this salad is sure to impress with its sophisticated blend of classic European ingredients.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What makes frisée special in salads?

Frisée brings a pleasant bitterness that contrasts beautifully with sweet ingredients like pears. Its curly, frilly leaves also add unique texture and help hold dressing well, making each bite more flavorful.

→ Can I make this ahead?

Prepare components in advance—wash frisée, slice pears, crumble cheese, and cook prosciutto. Store separately and toss with dressing just before serving to maintain crisp textures and prevent wilting.

→ What other fruits work well?

Fresh figs, apples, or grapes make excellent substitutes for pears. Each brings different sweetness levels and textures while maintaining the balance with bitter greens and tangy cheese.

→ How do I prevent pears from browning?

Toss sliced pears in a little lemon juice immediately after cutting. The acidity slows oxidation. Alternatively, slice them just before assembling the bowl for the freshest appearance.

→ What's a vegetarian alternative to prosciutto?

Roasted chickpeas, crispy pancetta (if not strictly vegetarian), or simply extra toasted walnuts add the needed crunch. Chickpeas provide protein while maintaining the bowl's textural contrast.

→ Which blue cheese tastes best?

Roquefort offers the sharpest flavor, Gorgonzola is creamier and milder, while Stilton falls somewhere in between. Choose based on your preference for intensity—creamier varieties blend more smoothly with pears.