Pear Half Salad
This Pear Half Salad is a delightful combination of creamy and nutty flavors, perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing side dish. The cream cheese and mayonnaise blend creates a rich topping for sweet pear halves, making it an appealing option for gatherings or picnics.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and chopped nuts.
- Add cream a little at a time to achieve a smooth texture.
- Add sugar to taste.
- Put a heaping tablespoon of the mixture on each pear half and serve on a lettuce leaf.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise. If you're short on time, pre-chopped nuts can save you some effort. Experiment with different nuts like walnuts or pecans for added flavor. Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing. This salad pairs beautifully with Sweet Nothings for dessert.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pear halves on a bed of crisp lettuce for a refreshing appetizer or side dish. Pair it with a light vinaigrette salad to balance the richness of the cream mixture. This dish complements a brunch spread, especially alongside Baked Macaroni And Cheese or Lemon Bars for a delightful meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The mixture can separate, so give it a good stir before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the cream cheese may change once thawed. Reheat gently if needed, but it's best served cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pear Half Salad contains roughly 356 calories, with 6g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value), potassium (11% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pears instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pears can be used, but make sure they are ripe and sweet. Slice them in half and remove the core. You may need to adjust the cream mixture to accommodate the firmer texture of fresh pears, possibly adding a bit more cream for consistency.
What type of nuts work best in this salad?
Chopped walnuts and pecans are popular choices due to their rich flavor and crunch. However, feel free to experiment with almonds or hazelnuts for a unique twist. Just ensure they're finely chopped to blend well with the cream cheese mixture.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Pear Half Salad is vegetarian-friendly as all the ingredients are plant-based, except for the mayonnaise if you choose a non-vegan version. For a vegan alternative, consider using a plant-based cream cheese and mayonnaise to keep it entirely vegan.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).