Gingerbread Spiced Candied Pecans (Print View)

Crisp greens with gingerbread spiced pecans, goat cheese, and a maple-balsamic drizzle.

# Components:

→ Gingerbread Spiced Candied Pecans

01 - 1 cup pecan halves
02 - 2 tbsp granulated sugar
03 - 1 tbsp brown sugar
04 - 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
05 - 1/4 tsp ground ginger
06 - 1/8 tsp ground cloves
07 - 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
08 - Pinch of salt
09 - 1 tbsp unsalted butter

→ Salad

10 - 5 oz mixed baby greens (spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
11 - 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
12 - 1/2 cup dried cranberries
13 - 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
14 - 1 medium apple, thinly sliced

→ Maple-Balsamic Vinaigrette

15 - 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
16 - 1 1/2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
17 - 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
18 - 1 tsp Dijon mustard
19 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# Directions:

01 - Melt butter in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add pecans and toast for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently.
02 - Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Stir constantly for 2 to 3 minutes until pecans are evenly coated and sugars have melted.
03 - Transfer pecans to a parchment-lined plate to cool and harden.
04 - Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until emulsified.
05 - Toss mixed greens, red onion, dried cranberries, apple slices, and goat cheese in a large bowl. Add cooled candied pecans.
06 - Drizzle salad with vinaigrette just before serving and toss lightly to combine. Serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Festive and flavorful combination
  • Perfect for holiday gatherings or a winter treat
02 -
  • Substitute feta or blue cheese for goat cheese if desired
  • Use walnuts or almonds in place of pecans for variation
03 -
  • Add grilled chicken for a heartier meal
  • Pair with a light Pinot Noir or sparkling apple cider
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