If you’re searching for a delightful dish that combines vibrant flavors and crunchy textures, look no further than the refreshing cranberry pecan salad. This colorful salad not only tantalizes your taste buds, but it also adds a cheerful touch to any meal or gathering. With sweet, tart cranberries paired with the earthy crunch of pecans, it’s a harmonious blend that appeals to both the senses and health-conscious diners.
Moreover, this salad is versatile enough for any occasion, from a festive holiday feast to a simple weeknight dinner. Each bite is a celebration of seasonal ingredients, making the cranberry and pecan salad a perfect choice for those looking to impress guests or enjoy a nutritious dish at home. Dive into the recipe and discover the beauty of this delightful salad!
Why You’ll Love This Salad:
Cranberry Pecan Salad is not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that will elevate any meal. The combination of crunchy pecans, sweet-tart cranberries, and fresh greens creates a vibrant dish that is both nutritious and delicious. You’ll appreciate how the nuttiness of the pecans balances the tartness of the cranberries, making each bite a delightful experience.
Moreover, this salad is incredibly versatile. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats, such as in our Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken Recipe, transforming a simple dinner into a feast. Additionally, it can stand on its own as a light lunch or a refreshing appetizer at any gathering.
The dressing options are endless, allowing you to customize the taste to your liking. With its eye-catching presentation and burst of flavors, the Cranberry Pecan Salad is sure to become a favorite in your household!
Ingredients for Cranberry Pecan Salad:
This delightful Cranberry Pecan Salad combines sweet and savory flavors for a refreshing dish. Gather the following ingredients for a perfect blend of textures and tastes:
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 2 tablespoons raspberry vinegar
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon white sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 pinch freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 6 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cups mixed salad greens, rinsed and dried
- ¾ cup dried cranberries
- ½ medium red onion, thinly sliced
- ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese
To elevate this salad, consider trying it as a side to your main dish, like Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken. The tangy dressing and crunchy pecans create an irresistible contrast with the tender chicken. Whether as an appetizer or a light meal, this cranberry-infused delight is sure to impress!
How to Prepare Cranberry Pecan Salad:
To create a flavorful Cranberry Pecan Salad, begin by toasting 1 cup of pecan halves in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently until they are fragrant, about 5 minutes. Next, in a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of raspberry vinegar, ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard, ½ teaspoon white sugar, ½ teaspoon salt, and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper. Slowly drizzle in 6 tablespoons of olive oil while whisking continuously to blend the dressing well.
In a large bowl, combine 6 cups of mixed salad greens, ¾ cup of dried cranberries, and ½ medium red onion, thinly sliced. Gently toss these ingredients together. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and mix until everything is well-coated. Finally, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top for that creamy finish. For additional inspiration, explore our Roasted Cranberry Balsamic Chicken recipe to complement this refreshing salad. For a detailed recipe, you can also check out this link on AllRecipes. Enjoy this vibrant, healthful dish that brings a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch!
Health Benefits of Cranberries and Pecans:
Cranberries and pecans not only elevate the flavors in a Cranberry Pecan Salad but also bring along significant health benefits. Cranberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which aid in boosting the immune system. These berries can help reduce the risk of urinary tract infections and promote heart health by lowering blood pressure. Moreover, their anti-inflammatory properties make them a great addition to your diet for overall wellness.
Pecans, on the other hand, are packed with healthy fats, fiber, and essential minerals like zinc and magnesium. These nutrients can help improve digestive health and support weight management. The combination of these two ingredients offers a powerhouse of nutrition, making this salad a perfect choice for a balanced meal. For a delicious twist, try adding roasted chicken to your dish. Check out this recipe for Roasted Cranberry Balsamic Chicken for an exciting flavor complement. With their combined benefits, a Cranberry Pecan Salad not only tantalizes your taste buds but also nurtures your body.
Variations of Cranberry Pecan Salad:
Cranberry Pecan Salad offers endless variations to suit your taste. For a zesty twist, consider adding citrus segments, such as orange or grapefruit. This brightens up the flavors and complements the tartness of the cranberries beautifully. Alternatively, you can enhance the protein content by incorporating grilled chicken or turkey, making it a heartier meal option.
If you’re in the mood for some creamy goodness, try drizzling a homemade dressing over your salad. A blend of yogurt and honey can create a deliciously tangy combination. Additionally, for those who crave a bit more crunch, sprinkle in some crispy bacon or chickpeas.
To complement your Cranberry Pecan Salad, why not try a delightful pairing with a dish like Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken? The sweet and savory notes harmonize wonderfully, making for a festive meal. Whether you prefer a light side or a filling entrée, these ideas will surely elevate your salad experience!
Storage Tips for Cranberry Pecan Salad:
To keep your delicious Cranberry Pecan Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume within 2-3 days for the best flavor and texture. To enhance your meals, consider making a side like Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken that pairs wonderfully with any leftover salad. Enjoy the crunchy pecans and tangy cranberries while they last!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What are the main ingredients in a Cranberry Pecan Salad?
The primary components of a Cranberry Pecan Salad typically include fresh greens, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a tangy vinaigrette. For added flavor, you might also include feta or goat cheese and seasonal fruits.
Can I customize the Cranberry Pecan Salad?
Absolutely! This salad is highly versatile. You can substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds and even add proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier option. Experimenting with different greens can also refresh the dish.
Is the Cranberry Pecan Salad suitable for special diets?
Yes, this salad can cater to various dietary needs. For a vegan version, simply exclude cheese and opt for a plant-based dressing. It’s also gluten-free, making it a great choice for diverse dietary preferences.
How can I make the dressing for my salad?
Creating a delicious dressing is simple. Combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. For an extra zing, consider adding Dijon mustard or fresh herbs. This enhances the flavors seamlessly.
When is the best time to serve a Cranberry Pecan Salad?
This delightful salad is perfect for holiday gatherings, especially during Thanksgiving or Christmas. It makes a refreshing side dish, complementing hearty dishes such as Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken wonderfully.
How should I store leftover Cranberry Pecan Salad?
To keep your salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best results, separate the dressing from the mixed salad ingredients until serving to maintain the crispness of the greens.
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Cranberry Pecan Salad: Healthy and Flavorful for Everyone
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Cranberry Pecan Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, featuring crunchy pecans, sweet dried cranberries, and tangy feta cheese, perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
1 cup pecan halves
2 tablespoons raspberry vinegar
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon white sugar
½ teaspoon salt
1 pinch freshly ground black pepper to taste
6 tablespoons olive oil
6 cups mixed salad greens
rinsed and dried
¾ cup dried cranberries
½ medium red onion
thinly sliced
crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together raspberry vinegar, Dijon mustard, white sugar, salt, and black pepper.
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking to emulsify the dressing.
- In a large salad bowl, combine mixed salad greens, dried cranberries, thinly sliced red onion, and pecan halves.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Top with crumbled feta cheese before serving.
Notes
Feel free to add your favorite protein to make this salad a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 17 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
Keywords: Cranberry Pecan Salad, salad recipe, pecan salad, cranberry salad, healthy salad