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...


Comments

  1. Just what I was looking to make for dinner tonight! Thanks for the fresh recipe :)

    Jen
    drawingsunderthetable.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Enjoy!
      If you like the combination of goat cheese and strawberries, you should try out my 'Double Strawberry & Goat Cheese' Sandwich.

      http://ediblelifeinyyc.blogspot.ca/2012/01/salad-turned-sandwich.html

      Thanks for your comments!

      Delete
  2. Had this tonight... So yummy yummy!!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yay, so glad you enjoyed it, a tried and true favourite for me. Pass me some sugar nuts and goat cheese!

      Delete
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