Nealy’s Favorite Recipes: Strawberry Lettuce Salad

There’s nothing better in the summer months than a huge, fresh salad – yum! I realized I have quite a few favorite salad recipes, actually I have quite a few favorite recipes in general, so I thought I would start a little series about some favorite recipes called Nealy’s Favorite Recipes. 🙂

First, the Strawberry Lettuce Salad. The timing for this is perfect since strawberries are still in season – yippee!

Pretty much the salad is a mix of lettuce topped with fresh strawberries, sliced red onion, candied pecans, and cheese. Any goat cheese lovers out there?!

I first learned to make candied pecans from my friend Ranya. She told me all you need to do is throw pecans and brown sugar (and a dash of salt) to an empty skillet. Warm until the sugar starts to coat the pecans, and you’re done! How easy is that?! I never knew!

Here’s the recipe, I hope you enjoy it as much as we do! It’s perfect for bringing to a friend’s house for dinner when they ask you to “bring a salad.” Or, top with some grilled chicken and serve as a meal!

Strawberry Lettuce Salad

1/2 head butter leaf lettuce

1/2 head romaine lettuce

1 pint strawberries, halved

1 c shredded goat cheese (my fav) OR Monterrey Jack cheese

1/2 c candied pecans (see directions below)

1/4 thinly sliced red onion

Dressing

1/2 c olive oil

1/3 c sugar

1/4 c red wine vinegar

1/2 t salt

1/2 t paprika

1/4 t white pepper

Directions: layer lettuce, strawberries, cheese, onions, and pecans (see directions below). Combine dressing in a jar and shake well. Toss with dressing right before serving.

Candied Pecans

1 c pecans

1/3 c brown sugar

Directions: toss both in a non-stick skillet set to medium heat. Stir until sugar is melted and starts to coat pecans. Remove from heat and let cool.

If you are on Instagram and make this recipe, I would love for you to share with me – @photographybynealy. Bon apetit!