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Crispy Candied Pecan Pomegranate Pear Salad

Crispy Candied Pecan Pomegranate Pear Salad - featured image

A quick and elegant salad featuring sweet candied pecans, crisp pears, and tart pomegranate seeds over mixed greens with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup raw pecan halves
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt
  • 2 large Bosc or Anjou pears
  • 1/2 cup fresh or frozen pomegranate seeds
  • 4 cups arugula or spring mix
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey

Instructions

  1. Heat a small saucepan over medium heat. Add butter and maple syrup, stirring until melted and bubbling.
  2. Add pecans and stir to coat evenly. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until nuts are golden and glossy.
  3. Remove from heat, sprinkle with sea salt, and stir. Pour onto a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer to cool completely.
  4. While nuts cool, prepare pomegranate seeds by tapping the fruit over water or thawing frozen seeds and patting dry.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey until emulsified.
  6. Wash pears, remove cores, and slice into thin half-moons.
  7. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, pear slices, and pomegranate seeds. Drizzle with half the dressing and toss gently.
  8. Add crumbled feta cheese and adjust seasoning or dressing as needed.
  9. Once pecans are cool, break them into pieces and sprinkle over the salad just before serving.

Notes

Add candied pecans last to maintain crunch. Store components separately if packing for lunch. Pears should be firm but ripe. This recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Nutrition

Keywords: salad, pecans, pears, pomegranate, healthy, gluten-free, quick dinner, fall recipe, candied nuts