Save A vibrant, refreshing salad featuring juicy winter citrus, mixed greens, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy candied pecans, all tossed in a light honey-citrus vinaigrette. Perfect for brightening up winter meals.
Ingredients
- Citrus: 2 large oranges (such as navel or Cara Cara) peeled and sliced, 1 large grapefruit peeled and sliced, 1 blood orange peeled and sliced
- Greens: 120 g (4 cups) mixed baby greens (arugula, baby spinach, or spring mix)
- Cheese: 60 g (2 oz) goat cheese crumbled
- Candied Pecans: 75 g (2/3 cup) pecan halves, 2 tbsp granulated sugar, 1/2 tbsp unsalted butter, Pinch of sea salt
- Dressing: 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice, 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 sugar stirring constantly until sugar dissolves and pecans are coated and toasted about 3–4 minutes Sprinkle with sea salt and spread onto parchment paper to cool
- Prepare the dressing:
- In a small bowl whisk together olive oil honey orange juice Dijon mustard salt and pepper until emulsified
- Assemble the salad:
- Arrange the mixed greens on a large platter or in a salad bowl Scatter the citrus slices evenly over the greens
- Top with crumbled goat cheese and cooled candied pecans.
- Drizzle the salad with the dressing just before serving Toss gently to combine.
Save Required Tools
Chefs knife Cutting board Nonstick skillet Whisk Mixing bowls Salad platter or large bowl
Allergen Information
Contains tree nuts (pecans) and dairy (goat cheese) For nut-free omit pecans or use roasted pumpkin seeds For dairy-free omit goat cheese or use a plant-based substitute Always check labels for gluten or other allergens if sensitive
Nutritional Information
Calories 265 Total Fat 19 g Carbohydrates 20 g Protein 5 g
Save Recipe Guide
- → How do you make candied pecans crisp without burning?
Use medium heat and stir constantly while melting butter and sugar. Remove pecans promptly once sugar dissolves and they appear glossy to prevent burning.
- → Can other nuts be used instead of pecans?
Yes, walnuts or almonds work well when candied similarly, offering different but complementary textures and flavors.
- → What dressing pairs best with winter citrus and greens?
A light honey-citrus vinaigrette balances the tartness of the citrus, adding subtle sweetness and acidity to freshen the greens.
- → Is goat cheese essential for flavor?
Goat cheese provides a creamy, tangy element, but feta can be substituted for a sharper taste or omitted for dairy-free options.
- → How should the salad be served for best texture?
Toss just before serving to keep the candied pecans crunchy and the greens crisp while evenly coating ingredients with dressing.
- → Can this salad be prepped ahead of time?
Prepare candied pecans and dressing in advance. Store greens separately and assemble just before serving to maintain freshness.