By Lori Walker, MS, RD | Published on December 2, 2023 | Last Updated on December 3, 2023
Longhorn Strawberry Pecan Salad is a delicious salad that is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
This salad is inspired by the popular LongHorn Steakhouse restaurant chain, known for its juicy steaks and flavorful salads. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a side dish to accompany your steak dinner, this Longhorn Strawberry Pecan Salad will not disappoint.
So, let’s get started on how to make this delectable dish! Follow this article for a step-by-step guide, along with some helpful tips and tricks to make the perfect Longhorn Strawberry Pecan Salad at home.
What is Longhorn Strawberry Pecan Salad?
Longhorn Strawberry Pecan Salad is a flavorful and refreshing mix of fresh strawberries, spring mix salad, feta cheese, green grapes, sugar-glazed pecans, mandarin oranges, red onion slices, and a simple dressing made with olive oil and black pepper.
The combination of sweet and savory ingredients makes this salad a perfect balance of flavors. It is a great option for those looking for a healthier yet delicious meal or side dish.
This salad is perfect for any season, but it’s especially popular in the summer when strawberries are in season. It makes for a light and refreshing meal on a hot day, and the vibrant colors of the ingredients make it visually appealing as well.
Why You’ll Love This Loghorn Strawberry Pecan Salad?
There are several reasons why you’ll love this Longhorn Strawberry Pecan Salad.
Firstly, it is a quick and easy recipe that can be made in just 20 minutes with simple ingredients that are easily available.
Secondly, it is a great option for those looking to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into their diet. It’s also a great way to introduce different flavors and textures to your meals.
Thirdly, this salad is packed with nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from fresh fruits and vegetables, making it a healthy choice for anyone watching their diet.
And last but not least, it’s absolutely delicious! The combination of sweet strawberries, tangy feta cheese, crunchy pecans, and zesty red onions makes for a flavor explosion in every bite.
All these reasons make this Longhorn Strawberry Pecan Salad a must-try dish that you’ll love and want to make again and again.
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Ingredients
- Strawberries: The star ingredient of this salad recipe, fresh and juicy strawberries add a pop of color and sweetness to the dish.
- Spring Mix Salad: This mix of leafy greens adds a variety of textures and flavors to the salad, making it even more delicious.
- Feta Cheese: Creamy and tangy feta cheese complements the sweetness of the strawberries and adds a burst of flavor to the salad.
- Green Grapes: Halved and patted dry, these green grapes add a refreshing burst of sweetness to the savory flavors in the salad.
- Pecans: Glazed with sugar for a crunchy and sweet touch, pecans are a staple ingredient in this recipe.
- Mandarin Oranges: Drained and patted dry, mandarin oranges bring a burst of citrus sweetness to the salad.
- Salad Dressing: A simple dressing made with olive oil and a pinch of black pepper adds a layer of flavor to the dish.
- Red Onion: Thinly sliced for a hint of zing, red onion adds a savory and slightly spicy element to the salad.
Step by Step Directions
Step 1
Prepare the ingredients
- Before you start assembling the salad, make sure to have all the ingredients ready.
- Slice the strawberries, halve the grapes, and drain and pat dry the mandarin oranges.
Step 2
Mix together spring mix salad and feta cheese
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 6 cups of spring mix salad with 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese.
- Toss together gently to evenly distribute the cheese.
Step 3
Add strawberries and grapes
- Add the sliced strawberries and halved grapes to the salad mix, tossing lightly to combine all ingredients.
Step 4
Mix in pecans and mandarin oranges
- Next, add 1 cup of sugar-glazed pecans and 22 ounces of drained mandarin oranges to the salad mix.
- Toss gently to incorporate all ingredients.
Step 5
Drizzle with dressing
- In a separate bowl, mix together 8 tablespoons of salad dressing with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a pinch of black pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients.
Step 6
Add red onion slices
- Thinly slice 8 ounces of red onion and add it to the salad mix.
- Toss lightly to incorporate the onions into the salad.
Step 7
Serve and enjoy!
- Transfer the Longhorn Strawberry Pecan Salad to a serving bowl or individual plates.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of black pepper, if desired.
- Serve and enjoy your delicious creation!
Tips
- For an even sweeter touch, you can add a handful of dried cranberries or raisins to the salad mix.
- If you prefer a more savory flavor profile, substitute the sugar-glazed pecans with regular pecans.
- To make this salad vegetarian, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a non-dairy alternative.
Nutrition Information
How to store Longhorn Strawberry Pecan Salad?
To store any leftover salad, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. The dressing can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply toss the salad again before serving.
If you want to make this salad ahead of time, you can prepare all the ingredients except the dressing and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply toss it together with the dressing for a fresh and delicious salad.
What other substitute can I use in Longhorn Strawberry Pecan Salad?
If you’re allergic to any of the ingredients in this recipe or simply want to switch things up, there are a few substitutes you can use. For example:
- Instead of strawberries, you can use raspberries or blackberries for a similar flavor profile.
- Instead of green grapes, try using red grapes or diced apples for some added crunch.
- And if you’re not a fan of feta cheese, you can use crumbled goat cheese or shredded Parmesan for a different taste.
Longhorn Strawberry Pecan Salad Recipe
Equipment
- large bowls
Ingredients
- 16 luscious fresh strawberries meticulously cut into thin slices and patted dry
- 6 cups of vibrant Spring Mix Salad Mix
- 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese adding a creamy and tangy touch
- 32 plump green grapes lovingly halved and patted dry
- 1 cup of sugar-glazed pecans offering a delightful crunch and sweetness
- 22 ounces of mandarin oranges carefully drained and patted dry for a burst of citrus sweetness
- 8 tablespoons of salad dressing featuring a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a pinch of freshly
- 8 ounces of red onion thinly sliced for a hint of zing
- ground black pepper for a unique flavor profile
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the ingredients for your Longhorn Strawberry Pecan Salad. Make sure to have ready 16 luscious fresh strawberries, which should be meticulously cut into thin slices and patted dry.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 6 cups of vibrant Spring Mix Salad Mix with 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese, adding a creamy and tangy touch. Gently toss them together to distribute the cheese.
- Next, add 32 plump green grapes, lovingly halved and patted dry, to the salad mix.
- Add a cup of sugar-glazed pecans for that delightful crunch and sweetness, followed by 22 ounces of mandarin oranges carefully drained and patted dry for a burst of citrus sweetness. Toss gently to incorporate all ingredients.
- In a separate bowl, mix together 8 tablespoons of salad dressing, featuring a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper. Drizzle over the salad and toss lightly to coat all ingredients.
- Thinly slice 8 ounces of red onion for a hint of zing and add it to the salad mix. Gently toss to incorporate.
- Transfer the Longhorn Strawberry Pecan Salad to a serving bowl or individual plates, garnish with a sprinkle of black pepper if desired, and enjoy your delicious creation!
Notes
- For an even sweeter touch, you can add a handful of dried cranberries or raisins to the salad mix.
- If you prefer a more savory flavor profile, substitute the sugar-glazed pecans with regular pecans.
- To make this salad vegetarian, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a non-dairy alternative.
FAQs
Can I use different types of salad greens?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite mix of leafy greens or any variety that is available to you.
Is it necessary to add the red onions?
No, you can leave out the red onions if you prefer or substitute them with another type of onion.
Can I use a different type of dressing?
Yes, you can use any dressing that you prefer or have on hand. Just make sure to adjust the amount according to your taste preferences.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Yes, you can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make this salad a more filling and complete meal. Just add the protein after mixing in all the other ingredients.
Conclusion
This Longhorn Strawberry Pecan Salad is not only delicious and easy to make, but it’s also full of nutritious ingredients. It’s a perfect summer dish that will impress your friends and family with its burst of flavors.
Thank you for reading and we hope you enjoy making and eating this delicious Longhorn Strawberry Pecan Salad. Don’t forget to share this article with your friends and family so they can also try out this tasty dish!
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My name is Lori Walker. I’m a registered dietitian, food blogger and food enthusiast. I share easy healthy, delicious recipes on my blog and review necessary kitchen items. The recipes I share take less… Read more
