Citrus Pecan Salad: A Taste of Florida Sunshine 🍊🥗
Citrus Pecan Salad: A Taste of Florida Sunshine 🍊🥗
Bright, refreshing, and full of flavor, the Citrus Pecan Salad is the perfect dish to bring a touch of Florida’s sunshine to your table. This vibrant salad combines the zest of fresh citrus, the crunch of toasted pecans, and the sweetness of dried cranberries, creating a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. It’s ideal for holiday gatherings, casual lunches, or as a side dish for any meal.
The History of Citrus in Florida
Florida is synonymous with citrus. Since the first orange trees were brought to St. Augustine by Spanish settlers in the 1500s, the state has become one of the world’s largest citrus producers. By the late 19th century, citrus cultivation boomed, solidifying Florida’s reputation as a citrus paradise.
Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, and tangerines are not only economic staples but also cultural icons. They appear in everything from desserts to savory dishes, making them a versatile ingredient in Florida’s culinary landscape. The Citrus Pecan Salad is a modern twist on traditional citrus-inspired dishes, incorporating fresh produce with a nutty, wholesome touch.
Citrus Pecan Salad Recipe
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
Why You’ll Love This Salad
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats, this salad is as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.
- Versatile: Works beautifully as a standalone dish, a side for grilled seafood, or even topped with chicken or shrimp for a full meal.
- Seasonal: Perfect for showcasing Florida’s winter citrus bounty, making it a festive and fresh addition to any holiday spread.
Tips for the Best Citrus Pecan Salad
- Use Fresh Citrus: For the best flavor, use freshly segmented oranges and grapefruits. Blood oranges or tangerines can also be great additions.
- Customize: Add avocado for creaminess, pomegranate seeds for a festive twist, or substitute walnuts for pecans.
- Make Ahead: Prep the ingredients in advance, but only toss with the dressing right before serving to keep the greens crisp.
The Citrus Pecan Salad is a celebration of Florida’s culinary treasures. With its combination of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors, it’s a dish that brings sunshine to any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for New Year’s Eve, a family gathering, or a simple weekday meal, this salad is guaranteed to impress and delight.
Citrus Pecan Salad: A Taste of Florida Sunshine 🍊🥗
Course: SaladsCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Medium4
servings10
minutes40
minutes220
kcalIngredients
- For the Salad:
4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, and romaine)
1 orange, peeled and segmented
1 grapefruit, peeled and segmented
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup toasted pecans
1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta (optional)
- For the Citrus Vinaigrette:
1/4 cup fresh orange juice
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Prepare the Vinaigrette In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, lemon juice, honey, olive oil, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
- Toast the Pecans Heat a skillet over medium heat and toast pecans for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they’re lightly browned and fragrant. Let them cool.
- Assemble the Salad In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, orange segments, grapefruit segments, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans.
- Add Toppings Sprinkle with goat cheese or feta if desired.
- Drizzle and Toss Drizzle the salad with the citrus vinaigrette and gently toss to coat.
- Serve and Enjoy Serve immediately as a refreshing appetizer or side dish.
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