Pin It A vibrant, refreshing salad featuring juicy winter citrus, mixed greens, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy candied pecans, all tossed in a light honey-citrus vinaigrette. Perfect for brightening up winter meals.
Ingredients
- Citrus: 2 large oranges (such as navel or Cara Cara) peeled and sliced, 1 large grapefruit peeled and sliced, 1 blood orange peeled and sliced
- Greens: 120 g (4 cups) mixed baby greens (arugula, baby spinach, or spring mix)
- Cheese: 60 g (2 oz) goat cheese crumbled
- Candied Pecans: 75 g (2/3 cup) pecan halves, 2 tbsp granulated sugar, 1/2 tbsp unsalted butter, Pinch of sea salt
- Dressing: 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the candied pecans:
- In a nonstick skillet over medium heat melt the butter. Add the pecans and sugar, stirring constantly until sugar dissolves and pecans are coated and toasted, about 3 4 minutes. Sprinkle with sea salt and spread onto parchment paper to cool.
- Prepare the dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, orange juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- Assemble the salad:
- Arrange the mixed greens on a large platter or in a salad bowl. Scatter the citrus slices evenly over the greens.
- Top with crumbled goat cheese and cooled candied pecans.
- Drizzle the salad with the dressing just before serving. Toss gently to combine.
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Required Tools
Chefs knife, Cutting board, Nonstick skillet, Whisk, Mixing bowls, Salad platter or large bowl
Allergen Information
Contains tree nuts (pecans) and dairy (goat cheese). For nut free omit pecans or use roasted pumpkin seeds. For dairy free omit goat cheese or use a plant based substitute. Always check labels for gluten or other allergens if sensitive.
Nutritional Information
Calories 265, Total Fat 19 g, Carbohydrates 20 g, Protein 5 g
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Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do you make candied pecans crisp and flavorful?
Toast pecans in butter and sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until coating is glossy and slightly hardened. Sprinkle with sea salt and cool on parchment to maintain crunch.
- → Can I substitute the goat cheese with another cheese?
Yes, feta cheese works well for a tangier flavor, or use a plant-based cheese for dairy-free options.
- → What is the best way to peel citrus for this salad?
Use a sharp knife to remove the peel and pith carefully, then slice the segments thinly for even distribution and easy eating.
- → How should the honey-citrus dressing be stored if made ahead?
Store the vinaigrette in a sealed jar in the refrigerator and whisk again before serving to recombine any separated ingredients.
- → Are there any good nut-free alternatives for the candied pecans?
Roasted pumpkin seeds provide a similar crunch and can be candied using the same method for nut-free needs.