Spinach Salad With Caramelized Pecans

Sharlene~W's Note:

Caramelized pecans make this salad especially good. This is a salad they used to serve at the restaurant one of my son's worked at, Rockbottom Brewery. If you want a salad with a bit more punch, try blue cheese instead of the feta.

• Total Time: 13 mins
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 3 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 4

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/2 cup pecan halves
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 (6 ounce) package fresh baby spinach (I also like to make it with a combination of freshbaby spinach and baby greens)
• 1 large granny smith apple, cored, sliced and then cut each slice into bite-size pieces
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar

Directions:

1. Melt butter in small frying pan over low heat.
2. Add pecans and brown sugar.
3. Cook 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly until mixture is caramelized.
4. Spread out on wax paper to cool.
5. In bowl toss together spinach, pecans, apple and cheese.
6. Add oil and vinegar and toss again until everything is coated.
7. Chef's note: To make ahead for a special dinner--toss apple with dressing. Layer on greens, cheese and pecans. Cover with plastic wrap and put in refrigerator until needed, tossing just before serving.

Reviews

[toonces]

i had this at a wonderful restaurant in scottsdale, arizona called "Bloom". i came home and checked recipezaar and there it was. it is just as good as in the restaurant and i will make it many more times. i have shared it with friends as well. very good salad and so easy to make.

[Sherry Seaney]

I made this for a luncheon and everyone wanted the recipe! I used raspberry vinegarette instead of the oil and vinegar dressing----I also used bleu cheese instead of athe feta.

[Chef #1150351]

Great recipe. I first made this for thanksgiving dinner and it was a huge hit. :) I have repeatedly done the salad time and time again, it always tastes fantastic!