Winter Citrus Candied Pecan (Printable)

Bright winter citrus and crunchy candied pecans create a fresh, flavorful salad with creamy goat cheese.

# What You Need:

→ Citrus

01 - 2 large oranges, peeled and sliced
02 - 1 large grapefruit, peeled and sliced
03 - 1 blood orange, peeled and sliced

→ Greens

04 - 4 cups mixed baby greens (arugula, baby spinach, or spring mix)

→ Cheese

05 - 2 oz goat cheese, crumbled

→ Candied Pecans

06 - 2/3 cup pecan halves
07 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
08 - 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter
09 - Pinch of sea salt

→ Dressing

10 - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
11 - 1 tablespoon honey
12 - 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice
13 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
14 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# Directions:

01 - Melt the butter in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the pecans and sugar, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves and pecans are toasted, about 3 to 4 minutes. Sprinkle with sea salt and transfer to parchment paper to cool.
02 - Whisk together olive oil, honey, orange juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until fully emulsified.
03 - Arrange the mixed greens evenly on a large platter or in a salad bowl. Layer the citrus slices atop the greens.
04 - Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese and cooled candied pecans over the top of the salad.
05 - Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently to coat evenly.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Bright and refreshing citrus flavors
  • Combination of creamy cheese and crunchy nuts for texture
02 -
  • Substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans if preferred
  • Feta cheese can be used in place of goat cheese for a tangier flavor
03 -
  • Use fresh citrus for the best flavor and texture
  • Gently toss the salad after dressing to prevent bruising the greens
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