Pickled Grape Salad With Pear, Taleggio And Walnuts Recipe | How To Make Pickled Grape Salad With Pear, Taleggio And Walnuts

This Pickled Grape Salad with Pear, Taleggio, and Walnuts is a delightful combination of sweet, tangy, creamy, and crunchy elements. The pickled grapes provide a tangy burst, while the sweet pear and creamy Taleggio cheese offer depth and richness. The toasted walnuts add a satisfying crunch, making it an elegant and refreshing salad perfect for any season.

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Pickled Grape Salad With Pear, Taleggio And Walnuts Recipe | What Is The Recipe Of Pickled Grape Salad With Pear, Taleggio And Walnuts

Cuisine Italian

Author Rashmi Sharma

Ingredients

• 50 gm walnut halves
• 2 tbsp soft brown sugar
• 4 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 2 handfuls watercress
• 1 pear peeled, cored and sliced into thin wedges
• 200 gn taleggio sliced

Instructions

1. Heat a frying pan and toast the walnuts, tossing until they are slightly browned and smell nutty, then leave to cool.
2. Stir the sugar and vinegar in a bowl, and leave for 5 minutes until the sugar starts to dissolve, then add the grapes and toss.
3. Leave for 10 minutes while you prep the rest of the ingredients.
4. Put the watercress onto plates or a sharing platter, then top with the pear and taleggio.
5. Drain the grapes but reserve the liquid.
6. Whisk 2 tbsp of olive oil into the pickling liquid.
7. Scatter the grapes over the salad then drizzle over 3-4 tbsp of the dressing and finish with the walnuts.

Serving Suggestions:

• As a Starter: Serve this salad as a first course for a sophisticated meal, especially paired with a light white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
• With Grilled Meat: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, pork, or steak. The sweetness of the pear and the richness of the Taleggio complement the savory flavors of grilled meats.
• With a Cheese Plate: Serve this salad alongside a selection of cheeses, fruits, and nuts for a well-rounded cheese platter.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: This salad makes an elegant addition to holiday feasts, dinner parties, or a cozy brunch.

Tips and Variations:

• Substituting Cheese: If Taleggio isn’t available, you can use other creamy cheeses like brie, camembert, or goat cheese for similar creamy texture and flavor.
• Use Other Nuts: If you don’t have walnuts, you can swap them for pecans, almonds, or pine nuts for a different nutty flavor.
• Add Some Greens: For an extra touch of freshness, add some arugula or spinach in addition to the mixed greens.
• Vegan Version: To make this dish vegan, skip the cheese and use a plant-based alternative, or simply enjoy the salad with the pickled grapes, pears, and walnuts.
• Herb Variations: While thyme works beautifully in this salad, you could also experiment with rosemary or sage for a different herbal twist.

Why You’ll Love This Salad:

• Balanced Flavors: The tangy pickled grapes, sweet pears, and creamy cheese create a harmonious blend of flavors.
• Texture Contrast: The crunchy walnuts, smooth cheese, and tender pears offer a satisfying contrast in textures.
• Elegant and Refreshing: This salad feels upscale and indulgent while being light and refreshing, making it a perfect choice for a special meal or casual lunch.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with fiber, healthy fats, and antioxidants, this salad is not only delicious but also nourishing.

This Pickled Grape Salad with Pear, Taleggio, and Walnuts is a perfect fusion of sweet, savory, and tangy elements, making it a crowd-pleaser for all occasions! Enjoy it as a light meal or as a standout side dish to elevate your dinner. 🧀🍇🍐