Citrus-Bitter Greens Salad with Honey-Pear Dressing

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A vibrant salad where naturally bitter greens are balanced by sweet pear and bright citrus, creating a refreshing yet complex flavor profile. This mediterranean-inspired salads ready in about 15 minutes blends radicchio, endive, medium Bosc pear into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 215 calories and feeds 2, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

★ 3.6 (12 ratings) Prep: 15 min Serves 2 Mediterranean cuisine 215 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Thinly slice 4 oz radicchio and 3 oz endive into bite-sized pieces, then transfer to a large bowl and toss gently to combine.
  2. Step 2: Zest 1 lemon, then cut it in half and squeeze out 1 tbsp juice; add zest, juice, 2 tbsp honey, and 3 tbsp olive oil to a small bowl. Whisk until emulsified and honey is fully dissolved, then season with 1/4 tsp sea salt.
  3. Step 3: Core and thinly slice 1 medium Bosc pear into 1/4-inch half-moons, then add to the bowl with the greens. Drizzle with the dressing and toss until all greens are evenly coated and slightly wilted.
  4. Step 4: Divide salad among plates, sprinkle with 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh chives, and serve immediately while greens are crisp.

Equipment for this recipe

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Citrus-Bitter Greens Salad with Honey-Pear Dressing take to make?

Total time is about 15 minutes (15 min prep + 0 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Citrus-Bitter Greens Salad with Honey-Pear Dressing?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Citrus-Bitter Greens Salad with Honey-Pear Dressing?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Citrus-Bitter Greens Salad with Honey-Pear Dressing for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Citrus-Bitter Greens Salad with Honey-Pear Dressing?

Mediterranean salads like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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