Black & Blue Spring Salad with Honey-Roasted Pecans

 Black & Blue Spring Salad with Honey-Roasted Pecans is a vibrant and refreshing salad that pairs the richness of blue cheese with the sweetness of honey-roasted pecans and a variety of fresh greens. It’s perfect as a side dish or a light main course, offering a balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors.

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

4 cups mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, and baby kale)

1 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)

1/2 cup blackberries (fresh or frozen)

1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (or gorgonzola)

1/4 cup honey-roasted pecans (recipe below)

For the Honey-Roasted Pecans:

1/2 cup pecan halves

2 tbsp honey

1 tbsp olive oil

1/4 tsp sea salt

1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)

For the Dressing:

3 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

1 tbsp honey

1 tsp Dijon mustard

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Make the Honey-Roasted Pecans:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a small bowl, combine the honey, olive oil, sea salt, and cinnamon (if using). Stir in the pecans, making sure they are evenly coated.

Spread the pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Roast for about 10-12 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the pecans are golden and fragrant. Let them cool before adding to the salad.

2. Prepare the Dressing:

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.

3. Assemble the Salad:

In a large bowl, toss together the mixed greens, blueberries, blackberries, red onion, and crumbled blue cheese.

Add the cooled honey-roasted pecans to the salad and toss gently to combine.

4. Serve:

Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss again to evenly coat all ingredients.

Serve immediately as a light main dish or a side salad.

Tips:

Make it vegan: Omit the blue cheese and use a plant-based cheese or simply enjoy the salad without it.

Add extra protein: For added protein, top the salad with grilled chicken, steak, or chickpeas.

Make ahead: You can prepare the pecans and dressing ahead of time. Store the salad ingredients separately, and combine them just before serving to keep everything fresh.

This Black & Blue Spring Salad with Honey-Roasted Pecans is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, making it a refreshing and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any season.