Apricot salad? Yes, you read that right! This unexpected salad is a delightful dance of sweet, tart, and savory flavors, all coated in a light and tangy dressing. If you think you don’t like apricots, this salad might just change your mind. It’s the perfect dish to brighten up a summer meal or impress your guests with a unique and flavorful side dish.

Delicious Apricot Salad

Table of Contents

Gather Your Salad Ingredients:

For this simple yet delicious salad, you’ll need:

Fresh Apricots: 1 pound, ripe but still firm, sliced
Mixed Greens: 5 ounces, your choice of spinach, arugula, or spring mix
Feta Cheese: 1/2 cup, crumbled (Goat cheese is a fantastic substitute!)
Pecans: 1/4 cup, toasted and chopped
Fresh Mint: 1/4 cup, chopped

Chef’s Tip: “Selecting ripe apricots is key to a flavorful salad. Look for fruits that are fragrant and slightly soft to the touch, but not mushy.” – Chef Michael

The Perfect Apricot Salad Dressing:

Olive Oil: 1/4 cup, extra virgin
White Wine Vinegar: 2 tablespoons
Honey: 1 tablespoon (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon
Salt and Pepper: To taste

Let’s Make Apricot Salad!

Toast the Pecans: In a small skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans for 3-5 minutes until fragrant. Let cool and chop.
Prepare the Dressing: In a jar or bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced apricots, crumbled feta, and chopped pecans.
Dress and Serve: Drizzle the desired amount of dressing over the salad right before serving. Toss gently to coat.

Combining Apricot Salad Ingredients

Tips for the Best Apricot Salad:

Grilling Option: For a smoky twist, grill the apricot halves for a few minutes per side before adding them to the salad.
Get Creative with Toppings: Feel free to add other ingredients like toasted almonds, dried cranberries, or a sprinkle of poppy seeds.
Storage: While best enjoyed immediately, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

FAQs About Apricot Salad

Can I use dried apricots for this salad?

While you can use dried apricots, keep in mind they have a chewier texture and more concentrated sweetness. If using dried, chop them smaller and consider reducing the amount of honey in the dressing.

What other dressings go well with apricot salad?

A poppy seed dressing or a balsamic vinaigrette also pair well with the sweetness of apricots.

Enjoy!

Making this refreshing apricot salad is easy and fun. It’s a delightful way to enjoy fresh, seasonal produce, and the unique flavor combination is sure to impress. For more delicious salad recipes and tips, check out our guides on How to make Cauliflower Salad and How to make Brussels Sprout Salad. Don’t forget to share your apricot salad creations with us! We’d love to see your culinary masterpieces.

Article by Family Cuisine

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