In the vibrant world of home cooking, we’ve stumbled upon a dish that’s not only a delight to the taste buds but also a nod to nutritious eating. Courtesy of Taste of Home, we bring you a recipe that harmonizes the nutty crunch of pecans with the crisp freshness of fruits and veggies. Trust us, it’s a gastronomic symphony you wouldn’t want to miss!
Caramelized Pecan and Fresh Fruit Salad with Lemon Balsamic Vinaigrette
Indulge in a mix of sweet and savory with this homemade salad, perfect for those who love a meal that’s as wholesome as it is tasty.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup pecan halves, for that perfect crunch
- A dash of salt, to balance the flavors
- 10 crisp celery ribs with leaves, for a fresh bite
- 2 medium Bosc pears, ripe and ready
- 2 medium Fiji apples, for a sweet touch
For the Lemon Balsamic Vinaigrette:
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar, for a tangy twist
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup, because a hint of sweetness brings joy
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest, for that citrus spark
- A dash of salt and pepper, seasoning essentials
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese, the crowning glory
Directions to Deliciousness:
- Begin by melting butter in a small heavy saucepan over a medium flame. Watch it turn a golden brown in 1-2 minutes while you stir with love and attention.
- Introduce pecans and a whisper of salt; switch to low heat. Cook and stir to a toasted perfection in 2-3 minutes.
- Once done, give the pecans a little rest in a separate bowl.
- Turn to your celery, disrobing it of its leaves, which you’ll place in a large bowl. Slice the ribs thinly to join the leaves.
- The pears and apples come next. Quarter them first, then slice into 1/4-inch thick pieces of juicy goodness.
- Gently combine the fruits with the celery.
- In a smaller bowl, let’s whisk together the oil, vinegar, syrup, zest, salt, and pepper until they’re well acquainted.
- Drizzle this vinaigrette over your salad, and toss everything together so each piece is coated in flavor.
- Finally, garnish with the golden pecans and a sprinkle of Parmesan.