Strawberry & Goat Cheese Salad With Candied Pecans: Try It!

Introduction

Strawberry & Goat Cheese Salad With Candied Pecans is a delightful dish that brings back memories of a sun-soaked summer picnic I attended years ago. I can still picture the vibrant colors of the fresh strawberries, the creamy goat cheese, and the sweet crunch of candied pecans all mingling together in a bowl. The aroma of the honey and butter wafting from the pecans as they toasted was simply irresistible! This berry goat cheese salad is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a refreshing burst of flavors that dances on your palate. Perfect as a light meal or a side dish, it’s a go-to recipe for any occasion. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked! Let’s get cooking.

Why You’ll Love It

• It’s a quick and easy recipe that takes just 25 minutes to prepare.
• The combination of sweet strawberries and tangy goat cheese is simply divine.
• It’s packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for any meal.
• Perfect for summer gatherings or as a light lunch.
• Budget-friendly ingredients that you can find at any grocery store.
• Versatile enough to customize with your favorite greens or nuts.

Ingredients for Strawberry & Goat Cheese Salad With Candied Pecans

• 2 Tablespoon butter
• 2 Tablespoons honey
• 1 Cup pecan halves
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¾ Cup strawberries, stems removed
• 1 Tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Pinch black pepper
• ¼ Cup olive oil
• 5 ounces spring mix, or your favorite greens
• 1 ½ Cup strawberries, stems removed and sliced
• ¼ Cup red onion, sliced
• 1 avocado, cut into cubes
• 4 ounces goat cheese

How to Make Strawberry & Goat Cheese Salad With Candied Pecans

• Step 1: Add the butter to a small skillet over medium heat.
• Step 2: Once the butter has melted, add in the honey and pecans. Stir well to coat the nuts.
• Step 3: Continue to cook for about 5-7 minutes until the pecans are toasted and fragrant. Season with the salt and pepper.
• Step 4: Remove from the heat and allow to cool completely.
• Step 5: Add the strawberries to a high-speed blender and puree.
• Step 6: Add in the vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper and blend again.
• Step 7: Then add the olive oil and process until emulsified. It should be a nice pink color.

Pro Tips for the Best Strawberry & Goat Cheese Salad With Candied Pecans

• Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor and sweetness.
• Let the candied pecans cool completely before adding them to the salad to maintain their crunch.
• Feel free to substitute the spring mix with any greens of your choice for a personal touch.

What’s the secret to perfect Strawberry & Goat Cheese Salad With Candied Pecans?

The secret lies in balancing the sweetness of the strawberries with the tanginess of the goat cheese and the crunch of the pecans. A well-emulsified dressing brings it all together beautifully!

Can I make Strawberry & Goat Cheese Salad With Candied Pecans ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the candied pecans and dressing in advance. Just toss everything together right before serving to keep the greens fresh.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Strawberry & Goat Cheese Salad With Candied Pecans?

Make sure not to overcook the pecans; you want them toasted, not burnt. Also, be careful with the dressing—blend just until emulsified to avoid separation.

Best Ways to Serve Strawberry & Goat Cheese Salad With Candied Pecans

This salad is perfect as a light lunch or a side dish at dinner. Serve it chilled on a warm day, or pair it with grilled chicken for a heartier meal. It also makes a stunning centerpiece for any summer gathering!

Nutrition Facts for Strawberry & Goat Cheese Salad With Candied Pecans

Per serving:

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 25g
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 200mg

This is an estimate and may vary.

How to Store and Reheat Strawberry & Goat Cheese Salad With Candied Pecans

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate to maintain the freshness of the greens. Reheat the pecans in a skillet for a few minutes if you prefer them warm.

Frequently Asked Questions About Strawberry & Goat Cheese Salad With Candied Pecans

Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?

Yes! Walnuts or almonds would also work beautifully in this salad.

Is there a substitute for goat cheese?

If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, feta or a plant-based cheese can be great alternatives.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Definitely! Grilled chicken or shrimp would make this salad even more filling.

Variations of Strawberry & Goat Cheese Salad With Candied Pecans You Can Try

• Vegan: Replace goat cheese with a plant-based alternative and use maple syrup instead of honey.
• Gluten-Free: This salad is naturally gluten-free, so enjoy it without any modifications!
• Extra Fruity: Add slices of kiwi or mandarin oranges for a tropical twist.
• Spicy Kick: Toss in some sliced jalapeños for a surprising heat!

Strawberry & Goat Cheese Salad With Candied Pecans is a dish that holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of a delightful summer picnic I stumbled upon a few years ago. The moment I took my first bite, I was captivated by the sweet juiciness of the strawberries, the creamy tang of the goat cheese, and the irresistible crunch of the candied pecans. The aroma of honey wafting through the air as the pecans toasted was simply heavenly! This berry goat cheese salad is not just a salad; it’s a celebration of flavors that dance together in perfect harmony. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for those warm days when you want something delicious yet satisfying. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it as a light meal, this salad is sure to impress. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making it again and again! Let’s get cooking.

Why You’ll Love It

• This berry goat cheese salad is a delightful mix of flavors that will brighten your day!
• It takes just 25 minutes to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Loaded with fresh strawberries and healthy greens, it’s a nutritious choice that feels indulgent.
• The candied pecans add a sweet crunch that elevates the entire dish.
• It’s budget-friendly, using simple ingredients you can find at any grocery store.
• Versatile enough to serve as a light lunch, a side dish, or even a stunning appetizer.
• It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients for Strawberry & Goat Cheese Salad With Candied Pecans

• 2 Tablespoon butter – for toasting the pecans and adding richness.
• 2 Tablespoons honey – to sweeten the pecans and enhance their flavor.
• 1 Cup pecan halves – these provide a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – to balance the sweetness of the honey.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper – for a hint of spice that complements the salad.
• ¾ Cup strawberries, stems removed – fresh and juicy, they are the star of the salad.
• 1 Tablespoon apple cider vinegar – adds a tangy note to the dressing.
• 1 teaspoon honey – for the dressing, to tie all the flavors together.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – to season the dressing.
• Pinch black pepper – for added flavor in the dressing.
• ¼ Cup olive oil – creates a smooth and rich dressing.
• 5 ounces spring mix, or your favorite greens – the base of the salad, providing freshness.
• 1 ½ Cup strawberries, stems removed and sliced – for added sweetness and texture.
• ¼ Cup red onion, sliced – adds a sharp contrast to the sweetness of the strawberries.
• 1 avocado, cut into cubes – for creaminess and healthy fats.
• 4 ounces goat cheese – brings a tangy creaminess that pairs perfectly with the strawberries.

How to Make Strawberry & Goat Cheese Salad With Candied Pecans

• Step 1: Start by adding the butter to a small skillet over medium heat. As it melts, you’ll be greeted by that rich, buttery aroma that sets the stage for the deliciousness to come.
• Step 2: Once the butter is fully melted, pour in the honey and add the pecan halves. Stir them well to ensure they’re nicely coated in that sweet, sticky mixture.
• Step 3: Continue to cook the pecans for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn a beautiful golden brown and start to smell toasty and fragrant. Sprinkle in the salt and black pepper to enhance their flavor.
• Step 4: Remove the skillet from the heat and let the pecans cool completely. This cooling time is crucial for maintaining their delightful crunch!
• Step 5: While the pecans cool, grab your high-speed blender and add the fresh strawberries. Puree them until smooth, and let that sweet strawberry scent fill your kitchen.
• Step 6: Next, add the apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper to the blender. Blend again until everything is well combined.
• Step 7: Finally, slowly drizzle in the olive oil while blending until the dressing is emulsified and takes on a lovely pink hue. This dressing is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy!

Now you’re ready to assemble your Strawberry & Goat Cheese Salad With Candied Pecans! Just toss everything together and enjoy the burst of flavors!

Pro Tips for the Best Strawberry & Goat Cheese Salad With Candied Pecans

• Always use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor. They should be sweet and juicy, which makes all the difference in this berry goat cheese salad.
• Let the candied pecans cool completely before adding them to the salad. This ensures they stay crunchy and don’t make the greens soggy.
• For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or mint. They pair beautifully with the strawberries and goat cheese!
• When making the dressing, blend just until emulsified. Over-blending can cause it to separate, so keep an eye on it!

What’s the secret to perfect Strawberry & Goat Cheese Salad With Candied Pecans?

The secret lies in balancing the sweetness of the strawberries with the tanginess of the goat cheese and the crunch of the pecans. A well-emulsified dressing brings it all together beautifully!

Can I make Strawberry & Goat Cheese Salad With Candied Pecans ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the candied pecans and dressing in advance. Just toss everything together right before serving to keep the greens fresh.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Strawberry & Goat Cheese Salad With Candied Pecans?

Make sure not to overcook the pecans; you want them toasted, not burnt. Also, be careful with the dressing—blend just until emulsified to avoid separation.

Best Ways to Serve Strawberry & Goat Cheese Salad With Candied Pecans

This Strawberry & Goat Cheese Salad With Candied Pecans is not only a feast for the eyes but also a versatile dish that can shine in various settings. For a stunning presentation, serve it on a large platter, allowing the vibrant colors of the strawberries, greens, and creamy goat cheese to pop. You can pair it with grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal, making it perfect for a summer barbecue or a light dinner. Alternatively, serve it alongside a warm, crusty baguette and a glass of chilled white wine for a delightful picnic or brunch spread. Trust me, your guests will be raving about this refreshing salad!

Nutrition Facts for Strawberry & Goat Cheese Salad With Candied Pecans

Per serving:

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 200mg

This is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Strawberry & Goat Cheese Salad With Candied Pecans

To keep your Strawberry & Goat Cheese Salad With Candied Pecans fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to enjoy it, as this will help maintain the crispness of the greens. If you have any candied pecans left, store them in a small zip-top bag or a sealed container at room temperature to keep their crunch intact. Reheating isn’t necessary for this salad, but if you prefer warm pecans, simply toss them in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious salad at its best!

Frequently Asked Questions About Strawberry & Goat Cheese Salad With Candied Pecans

Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?

Yes! If you’re not a fan of pecans, walnuts or almonds can be great alternatives. They’ll add a different flavor and texture, but still provide that delightful crunch. Just make sure to toast them in the same way to enhance their nuttiness!

Is there a substitute for goat cheese?

If goat cheese isn’t your thing, don’t worry! Feta cheese or a plant-based cheese can work beautifully in this salad. Both options will still give you that creamy texture and tangy flavor that complements the strawberries perfectly.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! Adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can turn this salad into a more filling meal. Just toss in your protein of choice right before serving to keep everything fresh and delicious!

How can I make this salad more filling?

To make your Strawberry & Goat Cheese Salad With Candied Pecans more substantial, consider adding quinoa or farro. These grains not only add texture but also boost the nutritional value, making it a hearty option for lunch or dinner.

Variations of Strawberry & Goat Cheese Salad With Candied Pecans You Can Try

• Vegan: Swap out the goat cheese for a plant-based alternative and use maple syrup instead of honey for a deliciously sweet dressing.
• Gluten-Free: This salad is naturally gluten-free, so enjoy it without any modifications! Just ensure your dressing ingredients are gluten-free.
• Extra Fruity: Add slices of kiwi or mandarin oranges for a tropical twist that complements the strawberries beautifully.
• Spicy Kick: Toss in some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a surprising heat that contrasts with the sweetness of the salad.

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