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Pear, Rocket, and Pancetta Salad

This elegant pear, rocket and pancetta salad offers a sophisticated balance of sweet, salty and peppery flavours. The crispness of the fried pancetta pairs beautifully with the juicy, floral notes of firm-ripe pears, while the shaved ricotta salata adds a creamy, savoury finish. A light champagne vinegar and honey dressing ties everything together, providing a bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the meat and cheese.

Ideal as a refreshing starter or a light lunch, this versatile dish is remarkably quick to assemble. Though listed as a vegetarian category base, the addition of pancetta makes it a favourite for those who enjoy a modern take on classic flavour combinations. Serve it immediately while the pears are fresh and the pancetta retains its satisfying crunch for the best possible texture.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Pear, Rocket, and Pancetta Salad

  • 1 tablespoon Champagne vinegar

  • 1 tablespoon mild honey

  • 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

  • 1/8 teaspoons salt

  • 1/8 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper

  • 45ml olive oil

  • 60g thinly sliced pancetta (4 to 5 slices)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 2 firm-ripe pears

  • 4 cups baby rocket or torn larger rocket (575g)

  • 90g ricotta salata, thinly shaved with a vegetable peeler

How to make Pear, Rocket, and Pancetta Salad

Whisk together vinegar, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a salad bowl. Add oil in a slow stream, whisking until combined well.

Cook pancetta in oil in a 10-inch heavy skillet over moderate heat, turning frequently, until just crisp, about 5 minutes. Transfer to paper towels to drain (pancetta will crisp as it cools). Tear into bite-size pieces.

Halve pears lengthwise, core, and cut lengthwise into 1/4-inch-thick slices.

Add pears to dressing along with rocket, cheese, and pancetta, tossing to coat.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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