WINTER PEAR SALAD

Who says the big holiday feast has to be limited to an indoor environment or a cozy at-home gathering? Embrace your adventurous spirit and take along your no-limits Benchmade cutlery as you venture into uncharted territory with Chef Chad White, the brilliant creator of the outdoor culinary experience known as Trail Feast. In this exciting blog series featured at Beyond The Bench, Chef Chad enthusiastically shares some ideal recipes tailored for foodies, outdoor enthusiasts, overlanders, and anyone who craves unforgettable over-the-fire feasts amidst the beauty of the wilderness.

HOLIDAY PEAR SALAD WITH A ZESTY CITRUS-PASSION FRUIT DRESSING

INGREDIENTS:

FOR THE SALAD:

● 2 ea ripe but firm pears, sliced (Bartlett, Anjou, or your preferred variety)

● Maldon sea salt to taste

● Urfa biber (Turkish chili flakes) for garnish

● 1 ea watermelon radish (shaved thin)

● ¼ cup roasted and salted marcona almonds

FOR THE DRESSING:

● 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

● Zest of 1 lime

● 1 fresno chili, finely brunoised (small dice)

● 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, finely brunoised

● 1 tablespoon minced mint leaves

● 1 tablespoon minced Thai basil leaves

● ¼ cup passion fruit pulp (or juice if pulp is unavailable)

● 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. PREPARE THE DRESSING:

● In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lime zest, fresno chili
brunoise, ginger brunoise, and passion fruit pulp..

● Taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch of Maldon sea salt if needed.

2. ASSEMBLE THE SALAD:

● Arrange the thinly sliced pears on a serving platter or individual plates.

● Drizzle the citrus-passion fruit dressing evenly over the pear slices, ensuring

some of the fresno chili and ginger brunoise is distributed throughout.

● Sprinkle torn mint leaves and Thai basil leaves over the salad.

3. FINISH AND GARNISH:

● Lightly season the salad with a few pinches of Maldon sea salt for a subtle

crunch and flavor boost.

● Dust the salad with a sprinkle of Urfa biber for a hint of smoky, earthy heat.

● Drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the top for a silky finish.

4. SERVE:

● Serve immediately to preserve the freshness and vibrant flavors.

This Holiday Pear Salad offers a delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors, enhanced by the freshness of torn herbs and the subtle heat of Urfa biber. Perfect as a refreshing starter or a side for your holiday feast!