Save A festive and flavorful salad featuring crisp greens, gingerbread spiced candied pecans, tangy goat cheese, and a maple-balsamic vinaigrette—perfect for holiday gatherings or a winter treat.
I enjoy making this salad every holiday season because it brings a cozy and vibrant element to our family table.
Ingredients
- For the Gingerbread Spiced Candied Pecans: 1 cup pecan halves, 2 tbsp granulated sugar, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground ginger, 1/8 tsp ground cloves, 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg, Pinch of salt, 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- For the Salad: 5 oz (140 g) mixed baby greens (spinach, arugula, or spring mix), 1/2 small red onion thinly sliced, 1/2 cup dried cranberries, 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese, 1 medium apple thinly sliced
- For the Maple-Balsamic Vinaigrette: 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 1 1/2 tbsp balsamic vinegar, 1 tbsp pure maple syrup, 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 toast for 2–3 minutes, stirring often.
- Add sugars and spices:
- Add both sugars, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Stir constantly for 2–3 minutes until the pecans are evenly coated and the sugars have melted.
- Cool candied pecans:
- Transfer the candied pecans to a parchment-lined plate to cool and harden.
- Make the vinaigrette:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- Assemble the salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the greens, red onion, dried cranberries, apple slices, and goat cheese. Add the cooled candied pecans.
- Serve:
- Drizzle with the vinaigrette just before serving and toss lightly to combine. Serve immediately.
Save This salad is always a hit during family dinners, sparking joy and compliments from everyone gathered.
Notes
Substitute feta or blue cheese for goat cheese if desired. Use walnuts or almonds in place of pecans for variation. Add grilled chicken for a heartier meal. Pairs well with a light Pinot Noir or sparkling apple cider.
Required Tools
Nonstick skillet, Mixing bowls, Whisk, Salad serving utensils, Knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains tree nuts (pecans) and dairy (goat cheese). Check all ingredient labels for possible gluten or allergen cross-contamination if serving to those with allergies.
Save This salad combines exciting holiday flavors in a simple and elegant way that everyone will love.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do you make the spiced candied pecans?
Toast pecans in butter, then coat with a mixture of sugars and warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg. Cook until caramelized and set aside to cool.
- → Can I use different nuts in this salad?
Yes, walnuts or almonds can replace pecans for a different texture and flavor profile while maintaining a nutty crunch.
- → What dressing accompanies the salad?
A maple-balsamic vinaigrette with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, pure maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper complements the salad’s sweet and savory elements.
- → Is this suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the salad features vegetarian ingredients including nuts, greens, dried fruit, cheese, and a plant-based vinaigrette.
- → How can I make this salad heartier?
Adding grilled chicken or substituting with more robust cheeses can increase protein and richness for a more filling dish.