Seared Salmon Salad with Pear, Pecans &Amp; Creamy Balsamic Dressing

This vibrant salad brings together the best of fall flavors in one bowl. Juicy pears, crunchy pecans, tangy dried cranberries and creamy feta are tossed with fresh spinach and a luscious creamy balsamic dressing. Topped with perfectly seared salmon, it’s a quick and satisfying meal that comes together in just 15 minutes.

Perfect for a light dinner or a hearty lunch, this salad is as beautiful as it is delicious. The combination of sweet, savory and tangy elements will keep you coming back for more. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite greens or nuts.

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Ingredients

2 unit CroutonsView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

0.5 cup Feta CheeseView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

0.5 ounce PecansView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

5 ounce SpinachView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 unit PearView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 ounce Dried CranberriesView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 tablespoon Bold & Savory Steak SpiceView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

3 ounce Creamy Balsamic DressingView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

10 ounce SalmonView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 teaspoon (tsp) Cooking OilView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

teaspoon (tsp) SaltView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

teaspoon (tsp) Black PepperView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

Instructions

1. Pat the salmon dry with paper towels. Season all over with steak spice, salt and pepper.
2. Heat a drizzle of oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the salmon and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Lower heat if browning too quickly. Transfer to a cutting board to rest.
3. While the salmon cooks, wash and dry the produce. Halve, core and thinly slice the pear.
4. In a large bowl, combine the spinach and creamy balsamic dressing; toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper if desired.
5. Add the sliced pear, dried cranberries, pecans, croutons and feta cheese to the bowl. Toss everything together. If the salad seems dry, add a drizzle of olive oil.
6. Slice the rested salmon crosswise. Divide the salad among bowls, top with the salmon and serve immediately.

Recipe Tips

FAQ

Can I use a different type of fish or protein?

Yes, you can substitute the salmon with chicken, shrimp or even tofu. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

What can I use instead of creamy balsamic dressing?

A simple vinaigrette of balsamic vinegar, olive oil and a touch of honey works well. Or try a poppy seed dressing for a similar creamy texture.

How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?

Assemble the salad just before serving. Store the dressing, croutons and wet ingredients separately if meal prepping.