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Harvest Salad with Sugared Pecans

Servings 6
Author Foodtastic Mom

Ingredients

  • 1 c. pecan pieces
  • 2 T. unsalted butter
  • 1/4 c. sugar
  • pinch of salt
  • 1 whole butternut squash peeled, seeded and cut into small cubes
  • 1 T. vegetable oil
  • pinch of salt
  • 1/4 c. extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 c. sweet onion finely minced
  • 2 T. apple cider
  • 1 T. Monari Federzoni Apple Glaze or sub aged balsamic vinegar with a pinch of sugar
  • 1 t. Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 t. salt
  • cracked black pepper
  • 1 5 oz. clamshell container spring lettuce mixture
  • 3/4 c. dried cherries
  • 3/4 c. crumbled goat cheese

Instructions

  • To make the pecans, toast the nuts in a dry, non-stick skillet over medium heat until fragrant, about 8 minutes. Watching and stirring so as not to burn. Remove nuts from skillet and add butter and sugar. Melt the butter and sugar over medium heat. Once melted, add the pre-toasted pecans to the pan and stir to coat, allowing to cook for 2 - 4 minutes, or until the sugar is adhering to the nuts. Spread the sugared nuts evenly on a flat piece of parchment paper or on a silicone baking mat. Sprinkle the nuts lightly with salt and allow to cool completely.
  • Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Toss the cubed squash with the vegetable oil and pinch of salt. Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast on center rack for 20 minutes, Allow to cool before using to top the salad. Squash can be kept in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for several days before ready to serve.
  • For the dressing, whisk together the olive oil, onion, apple cider, apple glaze, Dijon mustard, salt and pepper.
  • Toss the salad greens with the dressing and top with the roasted squash, sugared pecans, dried cherries and goat cheese.