Home » Salads » Sun Kissed Salad with Pecans and Oranges

Sun Kissed Salad with Pecans and Oranges

Sun Kissed Salad with Pecans and Oranges

Imagine a salad so vibrant and refreshing that it instantly transports you to a sun-drenched orchard, where crisp greens mingle with sweet orange segments and crunchy toasted pecans. This isn't just another salad—it's a culinary masterpiece that promises to revolutionize your lunch and dinner game. Packed with bold flavors, nutritious ingredients, and a tantalizing vinaigrette that will make your palate sing, the Sun Kissed Salad is about to become your new obsession.

Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings

Ingredients

  1. 4 cups mixed greens
  2. 1 cup pecans, toasted
  3. 2 oranges, segmented
  4. 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  5. 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  6. 2 tablespoons olive oil
  7. 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  8. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Begin by preparing the pecans. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Once they become fragrant and slightly golden, remove from heat and set aside to cool.
  2. Wash the mixed greens thoroughly under cold running water. Gently pat dry using a clean kitchen towel or salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
  3. Peel the oranges carefully, removing all white pith. Using a sharp knife, segment the oranges by cutting between the membranes to create clean, juicy orange segments.
  4. Thinly slice the red onion using a sharp knife, creating delicate, translucent rings. For a milder flavor, you can soak the sliced onions in cold water for 5 minutes before draining.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper to create a simple vinaigrette. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, toasted pecans, orange segments, and sliced red onion.
  7. Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to ensure even coating.
  8. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad.
  9. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh, crisp textures and vibrant flavors. Best served at room temperature or slightly chilled.

Tips

  1. Toasting Pecans: The Secret to Nutty Perfection - Watch pecans closely while toasting; they can burn quickly - Use medium heat and stir constantly - Remove from heat when they become fragrant and golden
  2. Orange Segmenting Technique - Use a sharp, serrated knife for clean cuts - Remove all white pith to prevent bitterness - Work over a bowl to catch any delicious juice
  3. Vinaigrette Mastery - Taste and adjust seasoning before adding to salad - Whisk ingredients thoroughly for emulsification - Add vinaigrette just before serving to maintain salad crispness
  4. Serving Suggestions - Serve immediately for optimal texture and temperature - Can be a light lunch or elegant side dish - Pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 320kcal

Carbohydrates: 20g

Protein: 8g

Fat: 26g

Saturated Fat: 5g

Cholesterol: 15mg

Pin Recipe Share Email

Share this:

Leave a Comment