Maple-glazed pear, spinach and ham salad

The Maple-Glazed Pear, Spinach, and Ham Salad combines sweet, juicy pears with savoury ham and fresh spinach, dressed in a light maple-vinegar dressing. This dish is perfect for a refreshing lunch or a side salad, offering a balanced mix of flavours.

05 Jan 2026
Cook time 0 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1 tsp vinegar
1 tbsp olive oil
2 cups spinach
1 oz ham
1/4 cup red pepper
1/4 cup cucumber
1/4 cup pear
1/2 tsp maple syrup
Maple-glazed pear, spinach and ham salad

This delightful Maple-Glazed Pear, Spinach, and Ham Salad is a perfect, balanced dish that combines sweet, savory, and fresh flavors. It’s ideal for light lunches or a refreshing side salad. Using simple ingredients such as fresh spinach, juicy pears, and savory ham, you’ll create a meal that’s not only nutritious but also bursting with flavor.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, combine 1 tsp vinegar and 1/2 tsp maple syrup. Mix well until fully integrated.
- Gradually whisk in 1 tbsp olive oil until emulsified. Set the dressing aside.
2. Assemble the Salad:
- Rinse and dry 2 cups spinach, then place it in a large salad bowl.
- Add 1 oz ham, 1/4 cup red pepper, 1/4 cup cucumber, and 1/4 cup pear to the bowl.
3. Combine and Serve:
- Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients.
- Toss the salad gently to ensure the dressing evenly coats the spinach, ham, red pepper, cucumber, and pear.
4. Presentation:
- Transfer the tossed salad to a serving dish or individual plates.
- Serve immediately for the best freshness and flavor.

Once you’ve assembled your Maple-Glazed Pear, Spinach, and Ham Salad, you’ll see how effortless it is to create a dish that’s both delicious and aesthetically pleasing. This salad offers a great way to incorporate more greens and fruits into your diet while enjoying the delightful contrast of sweet, savory, and fresh flavors. Bon Appétit!

Maple-glazed pear, spinach and ham salad FAQ:

What is the best way to store leftovers of this salad?

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Note that the spinach may wilt if left for longer.

Can I substitute the ham with a different protein?

Yes, you can substitute ham with cooked chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian option.

What type of vinegar works best for the dressing?

You can use any mild vinegar such as apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar, or even balsamic vinegar for a different flavor profile.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the dressing?

If you prefer a sweeter dressing, you can add an extra 1/4 tsp of maple syrup. Conversely, reduce it if you like a less sweet vinaigrette.

What is the serving size for this salad recipe?

The recipe serves approximately 1-2 people as a main dish or 4 as a side dish, depending on portion sizes.

Tips:

- Use fresh and crispy spinach leaves to enhance the salad’s texture.

- Ensure the ham is thinly sliced to balance well with other ingredients.

- For the maple glaze, opt for pure maple syrup to achieve a rich and natural sweetness.

- Mix the vinegar and olive oil thoroughly for a consistent dressing.

- Chop the red pepper, cucumber, and pear into bite-sized pieces for an even distribution of flavors in every bite.

- Toss the salad gently to avoid wilting the spinach leaves.

Nutrition per serving

1 Servings
Calories 100kcal
Protein 9g
Carbohydrates 10g
Fiber 2.96g
Sugar 6g
Fat 16g

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