Nutty Blue Cheese and Hazelnut Salad

A salad combines creamy blue cheese and crunchy hazelnuts for a delightful mix of flavors and textures. It’s a simple, fresh way to elevate your greens and impress your guests with every bite.

★★★★★5(2 reviews)Updated: Mar 31, 2026

Prep Time 10 min

Cook Time 20 min

Total Time 30 min

Difficulty Medium

Ingredients 0/8

1 egg white ¼ cup light brown sugar ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper ¼ teaspoon salt 2 cups coarsely chopped pecans 4 cups arugula ½ cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese 2 teaspoons hazelnut oil

Why This Recipe Is So Loved

This salad offers a perfect balance of bold and nutty flavors. The creamy blue cheese pairs beautifully with the crunchy hazelnuts, creating a satisfying texture contrast. It’s a refreshing and elegant dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome.

Expert Cooking Tips

- Toast the hazelnuts lightly to bring out their natural flavor and add extra crunch.
- Use a sharp blue cheese for a stronger taste, or a milder one if you prefer less intensity.
- Dress the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp and fresh.

Step 1

Warm your oven to 300°F (150°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until they become foamy. Slowly add the sugar while continuing to beat until the mixture forms medium peaks—when you lift the whisk, the peaks should gently curl over at the tip. Gently fold in the cayenne pepper and salt, then add the pecans and stir until they’re well coated with the egg white mixture. Spread the pecans out evenly on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 2

Pop the pecans in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes, then give them a good stir or flip to toast them evenly. Bake for another 10 minutes or until they’re nicely toasted and fragrant. Once done, take them out and let them cool for around 15 minutes.

Step 3

To serve, pile about two cups of salad greens on each plate. Sprinkle each serving with a generous 1/4 cup of Gorgonzola cheese, and drizzle a teaspoon of hazelnut oil over the top. Finish by scattering a cup of the toasted pecans onto each salad for a delicious crunch.

What To Serve With This Dish

Pair this salad with grilled chicken or steak for a complete meal. It also works well as a starter alongside crusty bread and a glass of crisp white wine. The nutty and tangy flavors complement roasted vegetables and hearty soups.

How To Refrigerate This Dish

Store any leftover salad components separately to maintain freshness. Keep the blue cheese covered in the fridge, and store toasted hazelnuts in an airtight container. Assemble the salad just before eating to avoid soggy greens.

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By Ayesha Khan

Home Cooking Expert

Ayesha shares simple recipes with clear steps to help you cook confidently at home.