Introduction
This delightful salad is a fusion of fresh, vibrant ingredients, perfect for a summer day or as a light side dish for any meal. The Spicy Honey Vinaigrette adds a flavorful kick that beautifully complements the sweetness of ripe peaches and juicy tomatoes, all topped off with creamy feta cheese.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Spicy Honey Vinaigrette:
– ¼ cup minced sweet onion
– 2 jalapeños, seeds and ribs removed, minced
– 1/3 cup canola oil, divided
– 3 tablespoons cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1½ teaspoons Dijon mustard
– ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
– ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 1 teaspoon minced fresh mint or basil
Salad:
– 2-3 beefsteak or heirloom tomatoes, peeled and sliced into wedges
– 1-2 fresh peaches, sliced into wedges (peeling optional)
– 1 cup fresh uncooked corn kernels (approximately 2 medium ears)
– ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
– ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
– ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
– Approximately ¼ cup Spicy Honey Vinaigrette, or to taste
Garnish:
– Fresh sweet mint leaves, minced, or fresh basil, chopped
Prep Time
Prep time for this recipe is about 15 minutes, making it a quick and easy option for any occasion.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6
This salad can be prepared quickly, and the vinaigrette can be made ahead of time for a more intense flavor. Enjoy the perfect blend of sweet and spicy, fresh from your kitchen!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
For the Spicy Honey Vinaigrette:
1. Sauté the minced sweet onion and jalapeños in 2 tablespoons of canola oil over medium heat until the onion begins to turn golden. Drain the mixture on a paper towel-lined plate and allow it to cool for a few minutes.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the sautéed onion and jalapeño mixture with the cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, black pepper, and minced fresh mint or basil. Puree the mixture using a stick blender or a regular blender.
3. While blending, slowly add the remaining canola oil until the mixture is emulsified.
4. Transfer the vinaigrette to an airtight bottle or container and refrigerate until ready to use. For optimal flavor, prepare the vinaigrette 3-24 hours ahead. It will keep well for up to 1 week when refrigerated. Remove from the fridge 30 minutes prior to using and shake well before serving.
For the Salad:
1. Just before serving, combine the sliced tomatoes, peaches, corn kernels, thinly sliced red onion, kosher salt, and crumbled feta cheese in a medium bowl.
2. Drizzle approximately ¼ cup of the Spicy Honey Vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat.
3. Sprinkle lightly with minced fresh mint or chopped basil.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Preparation Tips:
– For a milder vinaigrette, adjust the amount of jalapeños or omit them altogether.
– Feel free to experiment with different herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, depending on your preference.
Storage Suggestions:
– Store any leftover vinaigrette in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Remember to shake well before using.
– The salad is best served fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for a short time if you prefer, though it may wilt slightly.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil over relatively high heat. This technique is used to cook the minced sweet onion and jalapeños until golden, enhancing their flavors before blending into the vinaigrette.
Blending
Blending is the process of mixing ingredients until smooth. In this recipe, the sautéed ingredients are blended with vinegar, honey, mustard, and seasonings to create a thick, emulsified vinaigrette.
Emulsifying
Emulsifying combines two liquids that usually do not mix, like oil and vinegar. This is done by slowly adding canola oil to the vinaigrette mixture while blending until the oil is fully integrated and the texture is creamy.
Combining
Combining involves mixing various ingredients together to create a dish. For the salad, this means bringing together the sliced tomatoes, peaches, corn, red onion, and feta cheese in a single bowl for even distribution of flavors.
Drizzling
Drizzling is the technique of pouring a liquid in a slow, steady stream over food. It is used in the salad to add the Spicy Honey Vinaigrette, allowing for even coating without overwhelming the other ingredients.
FAQ
Can I use other types of vinegar for the vinaigrette?
Yes, you can substitute cider vinegar with other vinegars like red wine vinegar or white wine vinegar, but it may alter the flavor profile slightly.
Is it necessary to sauté the onion and jalapeños?
Sautéing enhances the flavors of the onion and jalapeños; however, if you prefer a milder flavor or a raw preparation, you may skip this step.
How long can the vinaigrette be stored?
The vinaigrette can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Can I add other vegetables or fruits to the salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to include other seasonal vegetables or fruits based on your preferences or availability.
Is there an alternative to feta cheese?
Yes, if you’re looking for a substitute for feta, you can use goat cheese, ricotta, or a dairy-free cheese alternative for a similar texture.
Conclusion
This Spicy Honey Vinaigrette paired with the fresh salad ingredients creates a delightful balance of flavors that harmonize beautifully. The sweetness of the peaches and honey, combined with the heat from the jalapeños and the tang from the feta cheese, make for a refreshing dish that is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the vibrant tastes and textures as you savor every bite!
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