SUMMER BERRY SALAD WITH CANDIED PECANS

This light and summery green salad is loaded with fresh blueberries, brown sugar-glazed pecans and soft goat cheese. Dress it with our balsamic Strawberry Vinaigrette.

Yield: Serves 8.

SUMMER BERRY SALAD WITH CANDIED PECANS

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp packed golden brown sugar
  • 1 tsp salted butter
  • 1 tsp water
  • 1 cup pecans
  • 8 cups torn mixed greens
  • 2 cups blueberries
  • Strawberry Vinaigrette
  • 1/2 cup crumbled soft goat cheese

Directions

  1. To make candied pecans, combine brown sugar, butter and water in a medium non-stick frypan. Cook over low heat, stirring until butter is melted. Add pecans and cook, stirring frequently, until pecans are lightly toasted and richly glazed, about 5 – 6 minutes.
  2. Spread pecans on a plate and cool completely.
  3. Combine greens and blueberries in a bowl. Add Strawberry Vinaigrette and toss to coat. Sprinkle with candied pecans and cheese. Serve immediately.
Nutritional analysis per serving:

221 calories, 16.5 g fat, 4.9 g protein, 16.4 g carbohydrate, 3 g fibre, 73 mg sodium

STRAWBERRY VINAIGRETTE

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup chopped strawberries
  • 1/3 cup white balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tbsp canola oil
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar

Yield: Makes about 2/3 cup.

Directions

  1. Place strawberries in a mini food processor; process, using an on/off motion, until almost smooth.
  2. Transfer puréed strawberries to a bowl. Stir in vinegar. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour.
  3. Strain strawberry mixture through a fine sieve into a bowl; discard pulp. Whisk in oil and sugar until blended. May be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
  4. Stir before using.
Nutritional analysis per 2 tbsp (25 mL) serving:

79 calories, 5.6 g fat, 0.2 g protein, 7.7 g carbohydrate, 0.3 g fibre, 3 mg sodium