If you're looking for a delicious and nutritious salad option, look no further than the Pecan Dijon Salad. This salad is packed with flavor and contains 673 calories per serving, making it a filling meal in itself.

The Pecan Dijon Salad is made up of fresh greens, crunchy pecans, and a tangy Dijon mustard dressing. But this salad isn't just delicious – it's also loaded with nutrients. Pecans are a great source of heart-healthy fats, protein, and fiber, while the greens provide a range of vitamins and minerals.

In this article, we'll explore the benefits of pecans, the delicious flavor profile of the Pecan Dijon Salad, and how you can make this healthy and flavorful salad at home.

Calories and Serving Size

A single serving of Pecan Dijon Salad weighs in at 596 grams and contains 673 calories. This may seem high, but it's important to remember that this salad is a filling meal in itself and provides a range of essential nutrients. Additionally, you can modify the recipe to reduce the calorie count if necessary.

Ingredients

To make the Pecan Dijon Salad, you'll need:

• 8 cups mixed greens
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation

To make the dressing, whisk together the olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, and salt and pepper in a small bowl. In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, pecans, red onion, and feta cheese. Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss to combine. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Flavor Profile

The Pecan Dijon Salad is a delicious combination of sweet and tangy flavors. The honey and apple cider vinegar add sweetness to the dish, while the Dijon mustard provides a tangy kick. The pecans add a satisfying crunch, while the feta cheese provides a creamy, salty flavor.

Benefits of Pecans

Pecans are not only delicious, but they're also packed with nutrients. These tasty nuts contain heart-healthy fats, protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Eating pecans can help improve heart health, aid in digestion, and even boost brain function.

Dijon Mustard

Dijon mustard is a great addition to any salad dressing. This tangy condiment is made from brown mustard seeds and white wine or vinegar. It provides a zesty flavor to any dish and is often used as a healthier alternative to mayo or other creamy dressings.

Healthy Salad Option

The Pecan Dijon Salad is a healthy and nutritious option for lunch or dinner. It's packed with protein, fiber, and heart-healthy fats, which can help you stay full and satisfied for longer. Eating a salad like this can also help you get your daily intake of vitamins and minerals.

Possible Modifications

If you want to reduce the calorie count of the Pecan Dijon Salad, you can make a few modifications to the recipe. You can use less pecans or replace them with a lower calorie nut like almonds. You can also reduce the amount of feta cheese or leave it out altogether. Finally, you can use a lighter dressing or use less of it.

Serving Suggestions

The Pecan Dijon Salad is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it as a side dish or alongside a protein like grilled chicken or fish. It's perfect for a summer barbecue or a healthy lunch or dinner.

Storage

The Pecan Dijon Salad should be eaten immediately after preparation for best flavor and texture. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. When ready to eat, give the salad a quick toss and add more dressing if necessary.