Salad with pine nuts and prunes

A salad with pine nuts and prunes is a unique and flavorful combination that brings together the nutty crunch of pine nuts with the sweet, chewy texture of prunes. This salad is great as a side dish or a light meal. Here's a simple recipe:

Salad with Pine Nuts and Prunes

Ingredients:

• For the Salad:

  • 4 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, baby spinach, or a spring mix)
  • 1/2 cup prunes, pitted and sliced
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, for added creaminess)
  • 1/2 cucumber, sliced (optional, for added freshness)

• For the Dressing:

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Toast the Pine Nuts:

   1. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts, stirring frequently, until they are golden and fragrant. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Prepare the Dressing:

   1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

3. Assemble the Salad:

   1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced prunes, red onion, and cucumber if using.
   2. Add the toasted pine nuts and crumbled feta cheese, if using.

4. Dress the Salad:

   1. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad.
   2. Toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.

5. Serve:

   1. Serve immediately as a side dish or light main course.

This salad is a perfect mix of textures and flavors, with the sweetness of the prunes balancing the tangy dressing and the crunchy pine nuts adding a delightful contrast. Enjoy!