Shaved Pear & Pumpkin Seed Salad

Paper-thin pear shavings define this fresh American lunch salad, where toasted pumpkin seeds add nutty crunch. A honey-lemon Dijon dressing and shaved Parmesan keep the greens lively and bright.

Serves 4 · 20 min prep · 10 min cook

Estimate for one serving

• 310 cal
• 9g protein
• 26g carbs
• 22g fat
• 3g fiber

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Ingredients

• 3 medium firm ripe pears
• 5 cups baby kale or mixed greens
• 1/3 cup raw pumpkin seeds
• 1/3 cup shaved Parmesan
• 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1.5 tsp honey
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp fresh mint leaves
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley leaves
• 1 cup roasted pumpkin ribbons or thin slices
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• pinch red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. 1Toast the pumpkin seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat, shaking often, until they puff and turn fragrant with light golden spots, 3 to 5 minutes; set aside to cool.
2. 2Whisk lemon juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl until creamy and emulsified.
3. 3Using a mandoline or very sharp knife, shave the pears into paper-thin slices; work quickly and toss them with a spoonful of the dressing to prevent browning.
4. 4If using fresh pumpkin, peel and shave or slice it very thin, then toss with a little oil and roast at 400°F for 8 to 10 minutes until just tender and edges curl; cool.
5. 5Place the baby kale or greens in a wide serving bowl and drizzle with half the remaining dressing; toss with clean hands so leaves are lightly coated.
6. 6Scatter the dressed pear shavings and roasted pumpkin ribbons evenly over the greens.
7. 7Tear the mint and parsley leaves and sprinkle them across the salad for bright herbal notes.
8. 8Add the cooled toasted pumpkin seeds and shaved Parmesan in an even layer.
9. 9Drizzle the rest of the dressing over the top just before serving so everything glistens.
10. 10Gently toss once at the table or leave composed for a pretty plated lunch.
11. 11Taste a bite and add an extra grind of pepper or squeeze of lemon if you want more brightness.
12. 12Serve immediately as a light yet filling midday salad; leftovers keep better if undressed components stay separate.