Pecan-Pear Green Salad

Name: Pecan-Pear Green Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2 servings.
Ingredients: 1 large ripe red pear, sliced; 2 tablespoons butter, divided; 1/2 cup coarsely chopped pecans; 1/4 teaspoon salt, divided; 2 cups mixed salad greens; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Pepper to taste

This lovely salad adds a special touch to any meal. The juicy pear slices, toasted pecans and mixed greens are coated in tangy vinaigrette dressing that's a pleasant complement to a sweet and crunchy combination. -Katie Nicklas Ridgway, Pennsylvania

Ingredients

1 large ripe red pear, sliced
2 tablespoons butter, divided
1/2 cup coarsely chopped pecans
1/4 teaspoon salt, divided
2 cups mixed salad greens
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
Pepper to taste

Directions

In a large skillet, saute pear in 1 tablespoon butter until lightly browned, about 7 minutes. In a small skillet, saute pecans in remaining butter until lightly browned, about 5 minutes; sprinkle with 1/8 teaspoon salt.
Divide salad greens between two salad plates; arrange pears over greens. Sprinkle with pecans. In a small bowl, whisk the vinegar, oil, pepper and remaining salt. Drizzle over salad.

Originally published as Pecan-Pear Green Salad in Taste of Home February/March 2004