Looking for a salad that’s not just a side dish but a showstopper? Dive into the delightful world of our Candied Pecan Salad with Cider Vinaigrette! This vibrant medley of fresh mixed greens, crunchy candied pecans, and tangy blue cheese is not only a feast for the eyes but also a burst of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With a zesty cider vinaigrette that brings everything together, this salad is perfect for any occasion—from elegant dinners to casual gatherings. Ready to impress your guests and elevate your salad game? Let’s get started!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1/2 cup candied pecans
- 1/4 cup blue cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup sliced apples
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the candied pecans by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add pecans and 2 tablespoons of sugar, stirring constantly until sugar melts and coats pecans evenly. Spread on parchment paper to cool and become crisp.
- Wash and dry mixed greens thoroughly using a salad spinner or paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring crisp texture.
- Core and thinly slice apples, preferably using a sharp knife to create uniform, delicate slices. Toss apple slices with a small amount of lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Prepare the cider vinaigrette by whisking together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until emulsified and smooth.
- In a large salad bowl, gently combine mixed greens, sliced apples, dried cranberries, and crumbled blue cheese.
- Drizzle prepared vinaigrette over the salad, tossing gently to ensure even coating without bruising the greens.
- Top the salad with cooled candied pecans just before serving to maintain their crunch.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with additional cracked black pepper if desired.
Tips
- Perfectly Candied Pecans: Keep an eye on the sugar as it melts; stirring constantly will prevent it from burning. Once they cool, they’ll become irresistibly crunchy!
- Greens Matter: Choose fresh, high-quality mixed greens for the best flavor and texture. Spinach, arugula, or a spring mix can add a variety of tastes and colors.
- Apple Selection: For the best crunch and flavor, use crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith. Tossing them in lemon juice not only keeps them fresh but adds a hint of brightness.
- Vinaigrette Balance: Adjust the vinegar and oil ratio to suit your taste. If you love tanginess, add a bit more apple cider vinegar!
- Assembly Tip: To keep the salad fresh, add the candied pecans just before serving. This ensures they remain crunchy and don’t get soggy.
- Presentation Counts: For an elegant touch, consider arranging the salad in layers or using a large serving bowl to showcase the vibrant colors of the ingredients.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the candied pecans and vinaigrette in advance to save time. Just store them separately and toss everything together right before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 15mg
