Strawberry Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese & Candied Pecans

Salads have become increasingly popular in our house. Even more so, salads with a fruit component are a huge hit.  One of my go to favourites is a spinach salad with strawberries, goat cheese and candied pecans.  Truth be told I could eat a bowl of just the pecans and goat cheese and be completely satisfied.  However, that's because I'm crazy and I have a goat cheese problem.

This salad is perfect as a side dish, or can be served as a main course with the addition of grilled chicken.  
Last night it accompanied some homemade turkey burgers and grilled corn on the cob.  Have I mentioned how much I love summer?  This is a light and refreshing salad that ended up being a big hit among our dinner guests.  I hope you enjoy it just same.

Strawberry Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese & Candied Pecans

Ingredients:
4 cups baby spinach
1 1/2 - 2 cups strawberries, sliced thin
1/4 - 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
1/4 - 1/2 cup candied pecans (recipe follows)
dressing (recipe follows) 

Method:
To assemble: Combine strawberries and spinach in a large bowl.  Add dressing, using as much or as little as desired.  Toss to coat.  Sprinkle with cheese and candied pecans

disclaimer:  because I'm a cheese and nut fanatic, I tend to err on the side that more is better.  feel free to change the amounts to suit your preference.


(dressing and candied pecans recipe courtesy of food network)

Dressing:
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar

1 Tbsp liquid honey

1/2 tsp dijon mustard

pinch of salt

In small bowl, whisk vinegar with honey, dijon, and salt.  Slowly whisk in oil until well combined.


Candied Pecans:
1/4 cup halved pecans
2 Tbsp granulated sugar
2 Tbsp water

Place pecans, sugar and water in small saucepan set on medium heat.  Stir to dissolve sugar.  Simmer mixture, stirring occasionally, until golden and pecans are coated, about 5-7 minutes.  Transfer to parchment lined baking sheet to cool.

Note:  I double this part of the recipe.  I don't think there is such a thing as too many nuts, especially since they are so friggin' tasty, and more than a  few never even make it to the salad...