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
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup pecans, toasted
- 2 oranges, segmented
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 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.
- Wash the mixed greens thoroughly under cold running water. Gently pat dry using a clean kitchen towel or salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
- 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.
- 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.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper to create a simple vinaigrette. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, toasted pecans, orange segments, and sliced red onion.
- Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to ensure even coating.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh, crisp textures and vibrant flavors. Best served at room temperature or slightly chilled.
Tips
- 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
- 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
- Vinaigrette Mastery - Taste and adjust seasoning before adding to salad - Whisk ingredients thoroughly for emulsification - Add vinaigrette just before serving to maintain salad crispness
- 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