Pickled Asian Pear Salad with Lemon Dressing Recipe

Looking for a unique, flavorful salad that will impress your dinner guests? This pickled Asian pear salad with creamy lemon dressing is just the ticket. The sweet and tangy Asian pears are perfectly complemented by the rich, creamy dressing and the bite of the blue cheese. It's a symphony of flavors that's sure to delight.

Photos of Pickled Asian Pear Salad with Creamy Lemon Dressing Recipe

Asian pears and crème fraîche might not be in your usual grocery list. Asian Pears are known for their juicy and crisp texture, they can be found in most Asian markets or the international aisle of a well-stocked supermarket. Crème fraîche, a type of thick cream, is found in the dairy aisle and its mild flavor makes it an excellent base for the dressing.

Ingredients for Pickled Asian Pear Salad with Creamy Lemon Dressing

Water: This acts as the base for your pickling solution.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the acidity of the pickling solution.

Kosher salt: Not only flavors the pickles but also helps to preserve them.

Fennel seeds: Adds a distinctive, sweet anise-like flavor to the pickling solution.

Lemon: Adds acidity to the pickling solution.

Asian pears: Provides a crisp, sweet and tangy element to the salad.

Crème fraiche: Adds a rich, tangy creaminess to the dressing.

Fresh lemon juice: Adds acidity and brightness to the dressing.

Shallot: Adds a slight, delicate onion flavor.

Finely grated lemon zest: Adds a strong, concentrated lemon flavor.

Extra virgin olive oil: Forms the base of the dressing and adds richness.

Salt and cayenne pepper: Used for seasoning.

Frisee lettuce: Provides a slightly bitter taste and crisp texture.

Watercress: Adds a peppery note to the salad.

Red onion: Provides a sharp, slightly sweet flavor.

Crumbled blue cheese: Adds a strong, tangy flavor and creamy texture.

One reader, Camel Worthington says:

This pickled Asian pear salad with creamy lemon dressing is a game-changer! The combination of tangy pickled pears and zesty lemon dressing is a burst of refreshing flavors. The creamy texture of the dressing perfectly complements the crispness of the pears. It's a delightful and unique salad that's sure to impress!

Camel Worthington

How To Make Pickled Asian Pear Salad with Creamy Lemon Dressing

A medley of tart, tangy, and peppery flavors makes up this Asian pear salad! Enjoy bites of crisp lettuce, watercress, and blue cheese, all in one plate.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking:

Chill Time: 8 hours

Total: 8 hours 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3cupswater
¼cupsugar
2tbspkosher salt
1tspfennel seeds
1lemon
3large asian pears
¼cupcreme fraiche,or sour cream
¼cuplemon juice,fresh
1medium shallot
½tsplemon zest,finely grated
½cupextra virgin olive oil
salt and cayenne pepper
4small frisee lettuce heads,(2 lbs)
4watercress,(2 lbs)
1red onion
1½cupsblue cheese,(6 oz), crumbled

Instructions

In a medium bowl, combine the water, sugar, kosher salt and fennel seeds; stir to dissolve the sugar and salt.
Squeeze the lemon halves over the water and drop them in the bowl. Add the Asian pears and stir to separate the slices.
Cover the pears with a plate to keep them submerged and refrigerate overnight or for up to 2 days.
In a very large bowl, whisk the crème fraîche with the lemon juice, shallot and lemon zest. Gradually whisk in the olive oil and season with salt and cayenne.
Drain the pears in a colander. Add the pears, frisée, watercress and red onion to the dressing, season with salt and cayenne and toss.
Sprinkle the blue cheese over the salad and serve. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 218.67kcal
Fat: 15.07g
Saturated Fat: 4.98g
Monounsaturated Fat: 8.19g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.26g
Carbohydrates: 17.81g
Fiber: 3.11g
Sugar: 11.65g
Protein: 5.75g
Cholesterol: 15.08mg
Sodium: 615.57mg
Calcium: 168.49mg
Potassium: 402.82mg
Iron: 1.11mg
Vitamin A: 185.79µg
Vitamin C: 24.70mg

Helpful Tip for Pickling Asian Pears Successfully

When pickling the asian pears, ensure they are fully submerged in the pickling liquid to achieve an even flavor throughout. If the pears float to the top, use a small plate or a pickling weight to keep them under the liquid. This will ensure that all parts of the pear are exposed to the pickling solution, resulting in a uniformly pickled fruit.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Salad Recipe

Plan ahead: Prepare the pickled pears and dressing a day in advance to save time on the day of serving.

Use a mandoline: Slice the asian pears and red onion quickly and uniformly for a professional presentation.

Prep in bulk: Make a larger batch of pickled pears and dressing to use for multiple meals throughout the week.

Delegate tasks: Enlist the help of family or friends to assist with the preparation of the salad ingredients.

Organize your workspace: Set up all the necessary ingredients and tools before starting to streamline the cooking process.

Multi-task: While the pears are pickling, use that time to prepare other components of the meal or work on other kitchen tasks.

Invest in quality tools: High-quality kitchen tools and equipment can make the prep work more efficient and enjoyable.

Clean as you go: Keep your kitchen tidy by cleaning up spills and putting away ingredients as you work to avoid a big mess at the end.

Substitute Ingredients For Pickled Asian Pear Salad with Creamy Lemon Dressing Recipe

water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can add depth of flavor and richness to the dish, similar to water, but with added savory notes.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can provide sweetness while also adding a unique flavor profile to the dressing.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a similar level of salinity and enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
fennel seeds - Substitute with anise seeds: Anise seeds have a similar licorice-like flavor that can complement the dish in the absence of fennel seeds.
lemon - Substitute with lime: Lime can provide a similar citrusy tang and acidity to the dressing.
asian pears - Substitute with bosc pears: Bosc pears have a similar texture and mild sweetness that can work well in the salad.
crème fraiche - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can provide a creamy texture and tangy flavor similar to crème fraiche.
lemon juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar can provide the acidity and tanginess needed for the dressing.
shallot - Substitute with red onion: Red onion can provide a similar mild onion flavor and crunch to the salad.
lemon zest - Substitute with orange zest: Orange zest can provide a citrusy aroma and flavor similar to lemon zest.
extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil can provide a mild, fruity flavor and a similar richness to the dressing.
frisee lettuce - Substitute with arugula: Arugula can provide a peppery bite and a similar texture to frisee lettuce in the salad.
watercress - Substitute with baby spinach: Baby spinach can provide a similar tender texture and mild, earthy flavor to the salad.
red onion - Substitute with shallot: Shallots can provide a mild onion flavor and a hint of sweetness similar to red onion.
blue cheese - Substitute with goat cheese: Goat cheese can provide a tangy, creamy element to the salad similar to blue cheese.

How to Beautifully Present This Pickled Asian Pear Salad

Elevate the salad with pickled Asian pears: The pickled Asian pears add a delightful tangy and sweet flavor to the salad, providing a unique and refreshing twist to the dish.
Create a visually stunning plate: Arrange the frisée, watercress, and pickled Asian pears in an artful and appealing manner, ensuring that the vibrant colors and textures of the ingredients are showcased beautifully.
Incorporate a creamy lemon dressing: The creamy lemon dressing adds a luxurious and velvety texture to the salad, complementing the crispness of the greens and the tanginess of the pickled Asian pears.
Garnish with crumbled blue cheese: Sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese over the salad to add a rich and savory element, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Serve with sour cream-pecan scones: Pair the salad with warm, flaky sour cream-pecan scones to provide a delightful contrast in flavors and textures, creating a well-rounded dining experience.
Pair with a crisp, citrusy white wine: Recommend serving the salad with a crisp, citrusy white wine, such as a lightly sparkling Italian prosecco, to elevate the dining experience and complement the flavors of the dish.
Attention to detail: Ensure that each component of the salad is meticulously prepared and presented, reflecting the precision and artistry expected in a culinary creation for professionals with three Michelin stars.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Salad Recipe

Medium bowl: A bowl used for mixing and combining ingredients.
Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen tool with holes used to drain liquids from food.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients.
Cutting board: A durable board on which to place material for cutting.
Knife: A tool used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Plate: A flat dish on which food is served or from which food is eaten.
Spoon: A utensil consisting of a small, shallow bowl on a long handle, used for stirring, serving, and eating food.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle used for cooking sauces and other liquids.
Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen tool with holes used to drain liquids from food.
Grater: A kitchen tool with sharp-edged holes used to shred or grate food items.
Measuring cups: A set of cups used for measuring ingredients in cooking and baking.
Measuring spoons: A set of spoons used for measuring small amounts of ingredients in cooking and baking.
Large bowl: A bowl used for mixing and combining larger quantities of ingredients.
Serving platter: A large plate or tray used for serving food.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for This Salad Recipe

The pickled asian pears can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Make sure to keep them submerged in the pickling liquid to maintain their flavor and texture.
The creamy lemon dressing can be prepared in advance and stored in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good whisk or shake before using to ensure it's well combined.
If you have leftover salad, it's best to store the components separately in the refrigerator. Keep the pickled pears, dressing, and greens in separate containers to prevent the greens from becoming soggy.
When ready to serve, assemble the salad by tossing the greens, pickled pears, and red onion with the desired amount of dressing. Add the crumbled blue cheese on top just before serving.
It's not recommended to freeze this salad as the texture and quality of the ingredients, especially the greens and pickled pears, will deteriorate upon thawing. This salad is best enjoyed fresh.

Interesting Fact About Asian Pears Used in This Recipe

Asian pear salad is a popular dish in Korean cuisine, often served as a side dish or appetizer. It is known for its refreshing and crisp taste, making it a perfect accompaniment to heavier main courses.

Is Making Pickled Asian Pear Salad at Home Cost-Effective?

This pickled Asian pear salad with creamy lemon dressing recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as Asian pears, frisée lettuce, and lemon, are relatively affordable and widely available. The use of simple pantry staples like sugar and olive oil keeps the cost down. The recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, earning a solid 9/10 rating. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it a budget-friendly yet impressive dish.

Is This Salad Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The pickled asian pear salad with creamy lemon dressing recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, the salad incorporates nutrient-rich ingredients such as asian pears, frisée lettuce, watercress, and red onion. These vegetables provide essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. The use of extra virgin olive oil in the dressing is also beneficial, as it contains healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. However, the recipe also includes some less healthy components. The pickling process involves a significant amount of sugar and salt, which can contribute to excessive sodium and sugar intake if consumed in large quantities. Additionally, the blue cheese crumbles add saturated fat and sodium to the dish. The creamy lemon dressing, while flavorful, also contains a considerable amount of fat from the crème fraîche and olive oil.

To make this salad healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of sugar and salt used in the pickling process, or opt for a quick-pickling method that requires less time and fewer preservatives
Use a lower-fat alternative to crème fraîche, such as Greek yogurt, to maintain the creamy texture while reducing the overall fat content
Limit the amount of blue cheese crumbles or replace them with a lower-fat, lower-sodium cheese like feta or goat cheese
Incorporate additional nutrient-dense ingredients, such as sliced almonds or pumpkin seeds, to provide healthy fats, protein, and extra crunch
Serve the dressing on the side, allowing individuals to control the amount they use and reduce overall calorie intake if desired

Editor's Opinion on the Flavors and Textures of This Salad

The pickled Asian pear salad with creamy lemon dressing is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The pickled pears add a sweet and tangy element, complemented by the creamy and zesty lemon dressing. The combination of frisée, watercress, and red onion provides a refreshing crunch, while the crumbled blue cheese adds a rich and savory note. The dish offers a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors, making it a refreshing and satisfying salad. The make-ahead options and wine recommendation demonstrate thoughtful attention to detail, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Enhance Your Pickled Asian Pear Salad with Creamy Lemon Dressing Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a rich roasted garlic flavor, perfect for complementing the tangy and sweet pickled asian pear salad.

Grilled Vegetable Platter: A colorful assortment of grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus, to add a smoky and savory element to the pickled asian pear salad.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Tender carrots glazed with honey and a hint of cinnamon, providing a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity of the pickled asian pear salad.

Balsamic Glazed Chicken: Juicy chicken breasts marinated in a balsamic glaze, offering a savory and tangy protein option to pair with the pickled asian pear salad.

Berry Cobbler: A warm and comforting berry cobbler with a buttery crust, serving as a delightful dessert after enjoying the pickled asian pear salad.

Similar Salad Recipes to Try If You Enjoy This One

Spicy Thai Basil Chicken: This dish is a flavorful and aromatic stir-fry that combines tender chicken with fresh Thai basil and spicy chili peppers. It's a perfect balance of heat and savory flavors.

Mango Coconut Rice Pudding: Indulge in this creamy and tropical dessert that combines sweet mango, coconut milk, and aromatic jasmine rice. It's a delightful way to end any meal.

Grilled Vegetable Platter with Balsamic Glaze: Create a colorful and healthy platter of grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. It's a perfect addition to any summer barbecue or gathering.

Recommended Main Dishes and Desserts to Pair with This Pickled Asian Pear Salad

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa: Grilled salmon topped with a refreshing mango salsa, featuring ripe mango, red onion, cilantro, and a hint of jalapeno for a touch of heat. The juicy sweetness of the mango pairs perfectly with the smoky flavor of the grilled salmon, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of ground turkey, quinoa, black beans, corn, and a blend of Mexican spices. Topped with melted cheese and fresh avocado slices, these stuffed bell peppers are a satisfying and nutritious meal that's bursting with Southwestern flavors.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and creamy texture will melt in your mouth, leaving you craving for more.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the luscious and creamy strawberry cheesecake, with a buttery graham cracker crust and a sweet strawberry topping. Each bite is a delightful combination of tangy and sweet flavors that will leave you wanting another slice.

Why trust this Pickled Asian Pear Salad with Creamy Lemon Dressing Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, showcasing the crisp and refreshing Asian pears alongside the creamy and zesty creme fraiche dressing. The pickling process infuses the pears with a subtle hint of sweetness and aromatic fennel seeds, elevating the dish. The vibrant combination of frisee lettuce, watercress, and tangy blue cheese adds depth to every bite. The meticulous attention to detail in the preparation and the thoughtful pairing of ingredients make this recipe a trustworthy choice for a delightful and satisfying salad experience.

Want to share your experience making this Pickled Asian Pear Salad with Creamy Lemon Dressing or discuss the recipe further? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

How long should I pickle the Asian pears?

You can pickle the Asian pears overnight or for up to 2 days for the best flavor and texture.

Can I make the pickled pears, dressing, and cleaned greens ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pickled pears, dressing, and cleaned greens separately and refrigerate them for up to 2 days before serving.

What can I serve with the pickled Asian pear salad?

This salad pairs well with sour cream-pecan scones. The creamy and tangy flavors complement each other beautifully.

Can I use a different type of pear for this recipe?

While Asian pears work best for this recipe due to their crisp texture and mild sweetness, you can experiment with other pear varieties if needed.

What wine would you recommend to serve with this salad?

I recommend a crisp, citrusy white wine with a touch of sweetness to complement the salty and tangy elements of the salad. A lightly sparkling Italian prosecco, such as Mionetto Legatura, would be an excellent choice.