As a born-and-raised Angeleno, I’ve never met a salad I didn’t like. And this one? It embodies everything I love about what food can be: delicious, fun to eat, elegant yet totally approachable. It’s the perfect marriage of flavors and textures—sweet candied pears, salty country ham, funky blue cheese, and a bright citrus vinaigrette. Whether you’re hosting brunch or treating yourself to something special, this salad delivers big vibes with minimal effort.

Why This Salad Works

This salad is the perfect example of opposites attracting in the best way. The candied pears bring a rich sweetness that pairs beautifully with the salty, crispy country ham. Blue cheese adds a funky creaminess that’s balanced by the brightness of the citrus vinaigrette, while the toasted pecans bring a satisfying crunch. Every bite feels like a little celebration.

If you can’t find country ham, don’t worry—prosciutto or bacon cut into lardons will work beautifully. (Lardons are just bacon sliced into thick matchstick-sized pieces, then cooked until crispy.)

Pro Tips

• Candy Your Pears Perfectly: Make sure your pears are ripe but still firm for the best caramelization. Let the brown sugar form a crust—it’s worth the wait!
• Go Big with Blue Cheese: Don’t shy away from the funk. If you’re not a blue cheese fan, goat cheese or feta are great alternatives.
• Crispy Ham Alternatives: No country ham? Use prosciutto or bacon cut into lardons for a salty, crispy substitute.

What to Pair It With

This salad shines on its own but pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a glass of crisp white wine. For something more substantial, serve it alongside grilled chicken or a hearty soup.

Final Thoughts

This salad is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s proof that with a little creativity, humble ingredients can come together to make something truly special. Whether you’re impressing guests or just treating yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to deliver big flavor and good vibes.

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