Annie S Scrumptious Maple Pecan Spinach Salad W Maple Dressing Recipe

Experience the heavenly flavors of autumn with Annie's Scrumptious Maple Pecan Spinach Salad! This vibrant salad combines the sweetness of maple syrup with the crunch of pecans and the freshness of spinach. The unique maple dressing, inspired by "What's Cooking America," perfectly complements the medley of ingredients. Toasting the pecans enhances their nutty flavor, while chilling the jicama intensifies its crisp sweetness. This recipe is easy to customize; adjust ingredient quantities to your liking. Each bite offers a delightful blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy textures, making it a perfect light meal or side dish. Prepare to be amazed!

Prep Time 25 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Calories 950.1 kcal
Protein 15g
Rating 4.8 (4 Reviews)
Annie S Scrumptious Maple Pecan Spinach Salad W Maple Dressing

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Annie S Scrumptious Maple Pecan Spinach Salad W Maple Dressing

  • Baby Spinach Leaves
  • Red Onions
  • 1 medium jicama
  • Sweet Red Pepper
  • Carrot
  • Cherry Tomatoes
  • 1 cup pecans
  • Pure Maple Syrup
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1/2 cup canola oil
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

How to Make Annie S Scrumptious Maple Pecan Spinach Salad W Maple Dressing

  1. **Toast the Pecans:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread 1 cup of pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet. Toast for 10 minutes, stirring halfway through, until fragrant and lightly browned. Let cool completely.
  2. **Prepare the Jicama:** Peel and julienne 1 medium jicama into matchsticks. Place in a bowl of ice water for 10 minutes to crisp. Drain well before using.
  3. **Make the Maple Dressing:** In a blender, combine 1/2 cup maple syrup, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1/2 cup canola oil, and 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard. Blend for 1 minute until smooth and emulsified.
  4. **Assemble the Salad:** In a large bowl, combine 10 oz baby spinach, 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional), 1/2 cup toasted pecans, 1/2 cup jicama matchsticks, and 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional).
  5. **Serve:** Divide the salad among individual bowls or plates. Drizzle with desired amount of maple dressing and serve immediately.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

28 g

Sugar

179g

Fat

28g

Carbs

23g