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Pear and Candied Pecan Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette


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  • Author: Isabella
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Pear and Candied Pecan Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette is a refreshing, sweet, and savory dish perfect for casual meals or festive gatherings. Juicy pears, crunchy candied pecans, tangy feta, and a homemade balsamic vinaigrette create a harmonious flavor combination.

 


Ingredients

For the Candied Pecans:

  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • A pinch of sea salt
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp water
  • 1/2 cup pecans

For the Balsamic Vinaigrette:

  • 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 tsp sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

For the Salad:

  • 5 oz baby spring mix
  • 1 ripe pear, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup dried cherries
  • 1/3 cup candied pecans (prepared earlier)
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

Instructions

Prepare the Candied Pecans:

  1. Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Combine brown sugar, ground cinnamon, sea salt, vanilla extract, and water. Stir until bubbling (about 2 minutes).
  2. Add pecans and stir for about 3 minutes, coating them thoroughly. Remove from heat.
  3. Spread pecans on parchment paper to cool, breaking into pieces once hardened.

Prepare the Balsamic Vinaigrette:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, sea salt, black pepper, and minced garlic.
  2. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking continuously until emulsified.
  3. Store in a jar in the fridge and shake before use.

Assemble the Salad:

  1. Place baby spring mix in a large bowl.
  2. Layer sliced pear, dried cherries, candied pecans, and crumbled feta on top.
  3. Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over the salad. Gently toss to combine before serving.

Notes

  • Cheese Alternatives: Swap feta for goat cheese or blue cheese for a bolder flavor.
  • Fruit Variations: Substitute pears with apples or add pomegranate seeds.
  • Nut-Free Option: Replace pecans with sunflower or pumpkin seeds for crunch.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare candied pecans and dressing up to a week in advance.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Tossing
  • Cuisine: American