Caramelized Pecan, Pear and Feta Greens

A perfect side salad to complement any main dish, add chicken or tofu and you have an amazing dinner salad. This recipe was “borrowed” from my mom

In large salad bowl, small individual bowls, filled with mixed greens or spinach, Sprinkle on top:

Cranberries
Crumbled feta
Sliced ripe pears
Caramelized Pecans

Drizzle with maple balsamic dressing and serve immediately.

Maple Balsamic Dressing

3tbs balsamic vinegar
2tbs olive oil
2tbs maple syrup

Caramelized pecans

¼ cup sugar
3 Tbsp water
1 cup pecans
½ tsp salt

Combine the sugar, water, in a large, heavy bottomed skillet over medium heat. Melt the sugar, bring to a boil and then add the pecans. Stir constantly to coat, cook until the sugar begins to caramelize and brown, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and cool on parchment or wax paper

Cranberry Almond Quinoa Salad

This super simple salad is crunchy and tangy and packed with protein, a great summer side dish.

2 cups cooked quinoa
4tbs fresh orange juice
1tso orange zest
3tbs olive oil
1clove garlic
1tsp chili flakes
1tsp fresh thyme
1tsp maple syrup Salt
Pepper
¼ cup cranberries
¼ cup toasted chopped almonds

Cook Quinoa as directed cool and fluff with a fork,
Wisk dressing ingredients together, adjust to taste, mix in cranberries and almonds

Serves 4