Sweet & Savoury Salad

This isn’t your average salad. It’s packed with flavour, texture, and nutrients to keep you full and satisfied. Juicy oranges, chewy dates, creamy cheese, and crunchy candied pecans come together with a garlicky balsamic dressing for the ultimate sweet and savoury bite. Add your favourite protein (think steak, grilled chicken, salmon, or even lentils) to make it a balanced, blood-sugar-friendly meal.

Ingredients for the salad:

• 8 cups mixed greens

• ½ onion, shaved

• 1 orange, chopped

• 8 dates, chopped

• ½ cup blue cheese, crumbled (optional, can swap for goat cheese)

For the candied pecans:

• ¾ cup chopped pecans

• 2 tsp ghee

• 1 tbsp yacon syrup

• Dash of cinnamon and salt

For the dressing

• Equal parts extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar (use slightly more oil for balance)

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tsp honey

Instructions (makes 12-16 squares)

1. Prepare the candied pecans

   • Heat ghee in a pan over medium heat. Add pecans, yacon syrup, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir to coat evenly and toast for 3–5 minutes until fragrant and slightly sticky. Remove from heat and let cool.

2. Make the dressing

   • In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and honey until well combined. Adjust oil-to-vinegar ratio to taste.

3. Assemble the salad

   • In a large bowl, add the mixed greens and shaved onion. Top with chopped oranges, dates, crumbled cheese, and candied pecans.

4. Dress & serve

   • Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Serve as is or add your favourite protein for a complete meal.