Grilled Peach Salad with Curry Pecans & Honey Vinaigrette

This Grilled Peach Salad with Curry Pecans & Honey Vinaigrette is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the natural sweetness of grilled peaches with the richness of curry-spiced pecans and a tangy honey vinaigrette. The contrast of warm, smoky peaches and crunchy spiced nuts makes it a perfect side salad or light meal for summer gatherings.

Ingredients

• 4 peaches, halved and pitted
• 1 cup pecans
• 1 tsp curry powder
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Mixed greens

Directions

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Toss peaches on the grill until grill marks appear, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. In a small bowl, mix pecans with curry powder and honey until coated.
4. Place pecans on a baking sheet and roast in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, salt, and pepper to make the vinaigrette.
6. Assemble the salad by placing mixed greens on a plate, adding grilled peaches, curry pecans, and drizzling with honey vinaigrette.
7. Serve and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Use different nuts: If you prefer, substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or cashews for a different flavor and texture.
• Add cheese: For added creaminess, try crumbling goat cheese or feta over the salad.
• Incorporate other fruits: You can mix in other grilled fruits like nectarines or plums for a more complex flavor profile.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the curry pecans for a spicy kick.
• Leafy greens variety: While mixed greens work well, spinach, arugula, or baby kale can also be used for a slightly different taste and texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: This salad is best served fresh. However, if you have leftovers, store the components separately in airtight containers. The peaches and pecans can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The dressing can also be stored in the fridge for up to a week.
• Reheating: If you want to reheat the peaches, briefly warm them on a grill or in a pan over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes. The pecans do not need reheating, and the vinaigrette can be used cold.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use canned peaches for this salad? Fresh peaches are ideal for grilling, but if canned peaches are your only option, use unsweetened canned peaches and make sure to drain and pat them dry before grilling.
2. What other fruits can I add to this salad? Grilled or fresh berries (such as raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries) or even sliced apples can complement the salad nicely.
3. Can I prepare the pecans ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the curry pecans ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
4. Can I make the vinaigrette in advance? Yes, the honey vinaigrette can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just whisk or shake it before using.
5. Can I make this salad vegan? Yes, simply omit the honey or replace it with maple syrup or agave nectar to make the dressing vegan-friendly.
6. Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill? Yes, a grill pan can be used indoors. Just preheat the pan and follow the same steps for grilling the peaches.
7. Can I serve this salad warm? While the salad is usually served chilled or at room temperature, you can serve it warm if desired, especially if you’re enjoying it as a main dish.
8. What if I don’t have white wine vinegar? If you don’t have white wine vinegar, you can substitute with apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar for a slightly different flavor.
9. Can I use a different type of oil for the vinaigrette? Yes, you can substitute olive oil with avocado oil, grapeseed oil, or any other mild-flavored oil that you prefer.
10. How do I prevent the peaches from sticking to the grill? To prevent sticking, brush the peaches lightly with olive oil before grilling, and make sure the grill grates are clean and preheated.

Conclusion

The Grilled Peach Salad with Curry Pecans & Honey Vinaigrette is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a delicious, memorable dish. With the natural sweetness of grilled peaches, the warm spice of curry-coated pecans, and the balance of tangy honey vinaigrette, this salad is a treat for the senses. Whether served as a side or a light main course, it’s a perfect addition to your summer menu, offering a refreshing and unique flavor profile.

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