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Prep Time: 60 Minutes Cook Time: 0 Minutes |
Ready In: 60 Minutes Servings: 6 |
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This came from Southern Living - one of their prize recipes. It takes a little time to prepare - but most of the prep time can be done well in advance. This is a very special salad and absolutely perfect for a special occasion. I never worry about guests not liking the salad when this is on the menu. Ingredients:
3/4 lb mixed salad green, of your choice |
4 ounces blue cheese, crumbled (i prefer feta cheese) |
2 oranges, peeled and thinly sliced |
1 pint fresh strawberries, quartered and sliced |
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar |
3 tablespoons dijon mustard |
3 tablespoons honey |
2 garlic cloves, minced |
2 small shallots, minced |
1/4 teaspoon salt |
1/4 teaspoon pepper |
1 cup olive oil |
1/4 cup sugar |
1 cup warm water |
1 cup pecan halves |
2 tablespoons sugar |
1 tablespoon chili powder |
1/8 teaspoon ground red pepper |
Directions:
1. For the Balsamic Vinaigrette, whisk together all ingredients except olive oil until thoroughly blended. Gradually whisk in olive oil. Makes 1 2/3 cups.
2. For the Sweet and Spicy Pecans, stir together 1/4 Celsius sugar and warm water until sugar is dissolved. Add pecans; soak for 10 minutes. Drain, discarding syrup. Combine 2 T. sugar. Chili powder, and pepper. Add pecans, tossing to coat. Place pecans on lightly greased baking sheet.* Bake at 350 for 10 minutes, stirring once.
3. To assemble salad: Toss greens with some of the Balsamic Vinaigrette. Arrange on 6 plates. Arrange orange slices, berries, pecans and cheese over greens. Drizzle some additional dressing over salad and serve.
4. If strawberries are not in season, I've substituted kiwi fruit - I'm sure there are many fruits that you could use.
5. *Note: I always line my baking sheet/pan with parchment paper - the pecans get pretty sticky while baking and it sure makes the clean-up a snap.
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