Autumn Salad with Pears and Goat Cheese

Ingredients

• 16 oz mixed greens
• 1 cup whole pecans
• 2 red anjou pears (sliced)
• 1 1/2 cups red grapes (halved)
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
• 4 ounces crumbled goat cheese
• 1 tablespoon real maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions

1. 1

   Place the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast until pecans are browned and fragrant, tossing occasionally, about 5 minutes.

2. 2

   In a bowl, toss together the greens, roasted pecans, pears, grapes, cranberries, onion, and goat cheese.

3. 3

   Add all of the ingredients for the vinaigrette into a container with a tight fitting lid. Shake vigorously until the oil and vinegar are combined. Taste, then season with salt and pepper as needed.

4. 4

   Pour half the vinaigrette into the greens and toss. Add additional vinaigrette to your preference and serve.