Retro Pear Salad: A Sweet & Savory Southern Classic!
Step back in time with this nostalgic Retro Pear Salad, a beloved simple dish that graced many a Sunday supper table. Featuring tender canned pear halves, a dollop of creamy mayonnaise, a sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese, and that iconic maraschino cherry on top, it’s a sweet, savory, and surprisingly satisfying “salad” that’s pure comfort and charm.
This dish is a testament to how simple ingredients, combined thoughtfully, can create a memorable and uniquely American culinary experience. It’s quick, easy, and always brings a smile!
Ingredients:
- 1 (15-ounce) can Bartlett pear halves, drained well (often packed in light syrup or juice)
- ½ cup mayonnaise (Duke’s or Hellmann’s for classic flavor)
- ¼ – ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated is best!)
- 4-6 maraschino cherries, stemmed and drained
- Crisp lettuce leaves (such as iceberg or romaine, for serving as a bed, optional)
Optional Additions/Variations:
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped pecans (toasted for enhanced flavor, adds crunch!)
- A pinch of paprika (for color, sprinkled over the mayo)
- A very light dusting of salt (to enhance savory notes, if desired)
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice (drizzled over pears to prevent browning, though less common with canned)
- For a slightly sweeter mayo: Stir in a tiny pinch of sugar (less than ¼ tsp) to the mayo.
Equipment:
- Small bowl
- Spoon or small spatula
- Plates for serving
- Can opener
- Paper towels (for draining pears)
Instructions:
- Drain Pears: Open the can of Bartlett pear halves and drain them thoroughly. Gently pat the pear halves dry with paper towels to remove excess syrup; this helps the mayonnaise adhere better.
- Prepare Serving Plates: If using, arrange a few crisp lettuce leaves on individual salad plates.
- Assemble the Salad:
- Place one or two drained pear halves (cut side up or down, your preference) onto each lettuce-lined plate.
- Using a spoon, place a generous swoop or dollop of mayonnaise in the hollow of each pear half, or artistically along the side.
- Generously sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the mayonnaise and around the pear.
- If using, sprinkle the finely chopped pecans over the cheese and mayo.
- Carefully place one maraschino cherry on top of the mayonnaise and cheese, usually in the center of the pear.
- Optional: Lightly dust with a tiny pinch of paprika for extra visual appeal.
- Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy this delightful taste of nostalgia!
Your Question Answered!
For me, to truly capture that “Sunday-supper magic” feeling, I definitely add shredded sharp cheddar. It’s non-negotiable for the classic experience.
And yes, I absolutely add finely chopped pecans! That little bit of toasted crunch and nutty flavor takes it from good to truly special. It adds a textural dimension that really elevates the simple components.
I tend to keep the mayo plain, without adding sugar, to let the tang balance the sweetness of the pear and cherry. And that maraschino cherry? Essential for the look and the little burst of sweetness.
So, for me, it’s: Canned Pear + Mayo + Sharp Cheddar + Toasted Pecans + Maraschino Cherry. Pure bliss!
What’s your go-to version, now that you’re making them for yourself? Do you stick to plain-Jane or go for the add-ins?