Italian-Inspired Pecan and Mango Salad with Herb-Infused Bacon
What Started it all:
Pecan, mango, honey, ginger, pink peppercorn, nutmeg, clove, cardamom, anise seed, lemon balm, lavender, cocoa, bacon, fennel, basil, rosemary
This vibrant salad combines the sweetness of mango with the crunch of pecans, balanced by the savory notes of herb-infused bacon. The unique blend of spices and fresh herbs makes this dish a delightful experience for your taste buds. Perfect for a family gathering, this recipe emphasizes healthy eating while allowing everyone to get involved in the cooking process.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon pink peppercorns, crushed
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon clove
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom
- 1/2 teaspoon anise seed, crushed
- 1 tablespoon lemon balm, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lavender, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 6 slices of bacon
- 1 bulb fennel, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh rosemary, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove from the skillet and let it drain on paper towels. Once cooled, chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine honey, grated ginger, crushed pink peppercorns, nutmeg, clove, cardamom, and anise seed. Mix well to create a flavorful dressing.
- Toast the Pecans: In the same skillet used for the bacon, add the chopped pecans and toast them over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes until fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the diced mango, toasted pecans, sliced fennel, chopped basil, and rosemary.
- Add Bacon and Dressing: Add the chopped bacon to the bowl and drizzle the honey dressing over the mixture. Gently toss everything together until well coated.
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped lemon balm and lavender over the salad for an aromatic finish.
- Serve: Divide the salad into three bowls and enjoy this fresh, flavorful dish with your family or friends.
This Italian-inspired pecan and mango salad is not only delicious but also a celebration of fresh ingredients and family cooking. Gather your loved ones, share the cooking experience, and savor the delightful flavors together. Buon Appetito!