Radicchio Orange Pecan Salad Recipe

This recipe is my go-to because it’s a vibrant medley of flavors and textures, and it’s both healthy and satisfying. I love how the sweetness of the oranges and honey perfectly balances the slight bitterness of radicchio, making every bite a delightful surprise!

I adore the way the intensely bitter and crunchy radicchio works together with the sweet, juicy oranges in this salad. The pecans lend a lovely nuttiness, but what really makes this dish shine is the dressing—a simple mix of olive oil and balsamic vinegar, with just a drizzle of honey to bring things into perfect balance.

Ingredients

Radicchio:
Rich in dietary fiber, lends a touch of bitterness.

Oranges:
Provide sweetness and juiciness, and are abundant in vitamin C.

Pecans:
Rich supply of nutritious fats and proteins; contribute crispness.

Olive Oil:
Fat that is heart-healthy is fruity and smooth in taste.

Balsamic Vinegar:
Contributes a zesty sweetness that helps balance out bitterness.

Honey:
Sweetener from nature; it counteracts the acidity of vinegar.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 head of radicchio, core removed and leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
• 2 oranges, peeled and segmented
• 1/2 cup pecans, toasted and roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. In a tiny basin, whip together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey until sublime unity is achieved.

2. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to the dressing to taste.

3. Arrange the radicchio leaves in a big salad bowl.

4. Include the orange pieces with the radicchio.

5. Sew the toasted pecans into the salad.

6. Evenly drizzle the dressing over the salad.

7. Toss the salad to coat the ingredients with the dressing.

8. If necessary, taste and adjust seasonings.

9. Move the salad to a serving platter or to individual plates.

10. Enjoy the fresh, vibrant colors and flavors that this dish has to offer.

Equipment Needed

1. Small bowl
2. Whisk
3. Large salad bowl
4. Knife
5. Cutting board
6. Measuring cups and spoons
7. Salad tongs or spoons
8. Serving platter or plates

FAQ

• Q: Can I use other types of nuts instead of pecans?Absolutely, walnuts or almonds serve as excellent substitutions that will continue to offer a satisfying crunch.
• Q: Can I use a different type of vinegar?B: Of course! Red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be used as substitutes for balsamic vinegar.
• Q: How can I make this salad vegan?To make a vegan-friendly version, just switch the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar.
• Q: How do I toast the pecans?To toast the pecans, use a dry skillet set over medium heat. Add the pecans and toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are fragrant.
• Q: Can I prepare this salad in advance?A: The dressing and the salad can be made ahead of time, but the two should be combined just before serving for maximum freshness.
• Q: What is the best way to segment the oranges?To prepare an orange, you first need to use a sharp knife to cut off its top and bottom. Next, with the knife used to cut the top and bottom, you slice away the peel and the pith that clings to the fruit’s interior. Finally, you cut between the membranes to remove each segment that makes up the orange.

Substitutions and Variations

If you cannot find radicchio, use Belgian endive or arugula instead; they provide a similarly satisfying bitter bite.
Use grapefruit segments or tangerines for a different citrus flavor instead of oranges.
Replace pecans with walnuts or almonds for a nutty crunch.
Substitute red wine vinegar or sherry vinegar for balsamic vinegar in this recipe for a different but equally delicious version.
Substitute honey for maple syrup if you prefer not to use the sweetener in its more familiar form.

Pro Tips

1. Supreme the Oranges When segmenting the oranges, use a sharp knife to cut away the pith and membrane, creating clean, pith-free segments. This technique, known as supreming, ensures juicy segments that elevate the salad’s texture and presentation.

2. Toast the Pecans To intensify the nutty flavor of the pecans, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until they’re golden and fragrant. Just be sure to keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

3. Balance the Dressing If you find the dressing too tangy or sweet, adjust by adding a bit more honey or balsamic vinegar. A splash of fresh orange juice can also add a citrusy punch, while a pinch of mustard powder can enhance the depth of flavor.

4. Chill Before Serving Once the salad is assembled, consider chilling it for 10–15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. This can also help the radicchio maintain its crispness.

5. Garnish with Fresh Herbs For an extra layer of flavor, garnish the salad with fresh herbs like mint or basil. This adds a burst of freshness and complements the earthy and sweet elements of the dish.