At The Simple Pursuit, we believe in simple, wholesome meals that celebrate the natural ingredients our ancestors once thrived on. This spiced pear and walnut salad with maple vinaigrette is a perfect example. The warm spices, crunchy walnuts, and sweet pears come together in a beautiful harmony, creating a dish that’s not only healthy but feels like a tribute to nature’s seasonal offerings.

This recipe features pears, walnuts, and a deliciously tangy maple vinaigrette—all nutrient-dense ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a festive dish to bring to holiday gatherings, this salad is both comforting and nutritious.

Why This Salad is Perfect for the Season

As we enter the cooler months, seasonal ingredients like pears and walnuts become stars in many dishes. This salad is packed with fall and winter produce, delivering warmth and nourishment during these chilly days. The maple vinaigrette, spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, adds a comforting flavor profile, while the walnuts provide a delightful crunch that complements the tender pears.

Moreover, pears are high in fiber and rich in vitamins C and K, making them ideal for supporting immune health as we head into the colder months. Walnuts, a superfood, provide omega-3 fatty acids, supporting heart health and brain function.

By focusing on these ingredients, we’re not only embracing seasonal eating but also nourishing our bodies with whole, organic foods—exactly what The Simple Pursuit stands for.

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Ingredients

• 4 ripe pears (Bosc or Anjou work well), sliced thin
• 1 cup raw walnuts, lightly toasted
• 4 cups of mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or a mix)
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional for added sweetness)
• 2 oz goat cheese (optional for creaminess)

For the Maple Vinaigrette:

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• Pinch of nutmeg
• Salt and freshly cracked pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Toast the Walnuts
   In a small, dry skillet, lightly toast the walnuts over medium heat for about 3–5 minutes, stirring often. Be careful not to burn them—they should be golden and fragrant. Set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Pears
   Slice the pears thinly, leaving the skins on for extra fiber and nutrients. Toss them in a little lemon juice to prevent browning.
3. Make the Maple Vinaigrette
   In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
4. Assemble the Salad
   In a large bowl or platter, arrange the mixed greens. Layer the pear slices on top, followed by the toasted walnuts and cranberries. Crumble the goat cheese (if using) over the salad.
5. Drizzle and Toss
   Drizzle the maple vinaigrette over the salad just before serving. Gently toss to combine, ensuring each bite is coated in the sweet and tangy dressing.

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The Importance of Seasonal Eating

Eating seasonally is one of the best ways to connect with the cycles of nature, and it’s a principle our ancestors followed intuitively. Seasonal produce is often more nutrient-dense, fresher, and more affordable.

Pears, harvested in late summer through fall, are perfect for adding natural sweetness to your dishes. Their peak flavor shines in this salad, offering a rich, juicy contrast to the crunchy walnuts.

As we embrace winter, this salad becomes a simple and elegant way to bring the flavors of the season into your meals without much effort or complexity.

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Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

Pears: The Fiber Champion

Pears are a wonderful source of dietary fiber, which is essential for gut health. The high fiber content helps regulate digestion, maintain stable blood sugar levels, and can even lower cholesterol. Pears are also hydrating, containing about 84% water, which can help keep you feeling fuller for longer.

Walnuts: A Nutrient Powerhouse

Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for heart and brain health. Just a handful of these nutrient-packed nuts can support cognitive function, reduce inflammation, and improve heart health. Toasting them for this salad brings out their natural oils and makes them even more flavorful.

Maple Syrup: A Natural Sweetener

Unlike processed sugars, maple syrup is a natural sweetener with trace amounts of minerals like calcium, potassium, and zinc. It has a lower glycemic index than refined sugar, meaning it won’t spike blood sugar levels as dramatically, making it a great alternative for those looking to limit their sugar intake.

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Variations and Substitutions

This salad can easily be adapted to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are a few ideas for tweaking the recipe:

• Add Protein: Make this salad a heartier meal by adding some grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or even lentils for a plant-based protein option.
• Swap the Greens: While mixed greens like arugula and spinach work well, you can also use kale or romaine for a different texture.
• Change the Nuts: If you’re not a fan of walnuts or have a nut allergy, try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds (pepitas) for a similar crunch.
• Fruit Alternatives: Apples or figs can be a lovely replacement for pears, bringing their unique sweetness to the dish.

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How to Store Leftovers

If you’re making this salad ahead of time, keep the dressing separate until just before serving. This helps the greens stay crisp and prevents them from wilting. The salad (without the dressing) can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.

The maple vinaigrette can be made in advance and stored in a jar for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before using, as the ingredients may separate over time.

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Why Mindful Eating Matters

One of the core values at The Simple Pursuit is promoting a mindful approach to eating. When we slow down and truly savor the foods we eat, it not only enhances our enjoyment but also supports better digestion and overall well-being. This spiced pear and walnut salad is an invitation to be present in the moment, to enjoy the beauty of simple, wholesome ingredients, and to nourish your body and soul.

Eating mindfully is about being aware of where our food comes from, how it makes us feel, and the care we take in preparing it. By choosing organic, seasonal, and non-toxic ingredients, you’re not just making a healthy choice for yourself—you’re also supporting sustainable farming practices and the planet.

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Wrapping Up

This spiced pear and walnut salad with maple vinaigrette embodies everything The Simple Pursuit stands for: simple, healthy, and deeply satisfying meals made with organic ingredients. It’s a salad that celebrates nature’s abundance and the joy of mindful, intentional eating.

Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch or sharing it with loved ones during the holidays, this recipe will leave you feeling nourished and connected to the seasonal rhythms of the earth. We hope this salad inspires you to continue exploring the beauty of whole, organic foods in your kitchen and to share that joy with others.

Bon appétit from The Simple Pursuit!