Nothing screams fresh and delicious quite like a Southern Salad with Bourbon Vinaigrette. With summer in full swing, I love to whip up this tasty dish that combines arugula or Kentucky Bibb lettuce with juicy peaches and crunchy pecans. The star of the show is undoubtedly the bourbon vinaigrette, bringing a unique and zesty flavor that elevates the salad to a whole new level.
Salads can sometimes feel boring, but this one is anything but. Adding ingredients like goat cheese and watercress not only enhances the taste but also gives the salad a delightful texture. The combination of sweet, savory, and tangy elements makes every bite a pleasure.
Whether you’re hosting a barbeque or enjoying a quiet dinner, this salad is sure to impress. It’s the perfect blend of freshness and southern charm, making it a hit with family and friends alike. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll be reaching for seconds.
Southern salad with bourbon vinaigrette recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups arugula
- 1 peach
- 1/4 cup pecans
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon good bourbon
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Salad: Divide the arugula evenly between two salad plates.
- Add Peach: Dice the peach into 1/2-inch cubes and sprinkle them over the arugula.
- Add Pecans: Chop the pecans and add them to the salads.
- Make Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, combine the cider vinegar, bourbon, and maple syrup. Whisk well until thoroughly mixed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Dress Salad: Drizzle the vinaigrette evenly over the two salads.
- Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy.
Creating the perfect bourbon vinaigrette
Making the perfect Bourbon Vinaigrette is about selecting quality ingredients, balancing the flavors of bourbon and vinegar, and using the right whisking techniques for emulsification.
Choosing quality ingredients
I always start with fresh and high-quality ingredients. For the bourbon, I prefer using a good Kentucky bourbon as it brings out the authentic Southern flavor.
When it comes to vinegar, apple cider vinegar is my go-to. It has the right amount of tanginess that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of bourbon. Olive oil is ideal for its smooth texture and rich taste, but you can use canola oil if you prefer a lighter option.
Maple syrup or light brown sugar adds a sweet depth to the vinaigrette. Both work well, but I lean towards maple syrup for its natural sweetness. Finally, a bit of Dijon mustard not only adds flavor but helps in emulsifying the dressing.
Balancing flavors with bourbon and vinegar
Balancing the flavors is crucial for a delightful Bourbon Vinaigrette. The bourbon brings warmth and a hint of caramel, while apple cider vinegar adds a sharp, tangy bite.
I use a ratio of 3 parts bourbon to 2 parts apple cider vinegar. This combination ensures neither ingredient overwhelms the other. The sweetness from maple syrup or light brown sugar counters the acidity, while a pinch of salt and pepper enhances all the elements.
*Dijon mustard plays a dual role. It provides a slight pungency and thickens the vinaigrette, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that complement any salad. If you like a bit of spice, adding a touch of grated ginger or minced garlic can provide an extra layer of complexity.
Whisking wechniques for emulsification
Emulsification is the key to a smooth and well-mixed vinaigrette. I like to whisk by hand; it gives me control over the texture.
Start by whisking the mustard, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar together until fully combined. Then, slowly drizzle in the olive oil or canola oil while continually whisking. This gradual addition helps to bind the oil and vinegar, preventing them from separating.
For extra flavor, I’ll sometimes whisk in minced shallots or a tiny bit of crushed pecans. Once everything is combined, season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the vinaigrette over your favorite greens, such as arugula or Bibb lettuce, and toss in some diced peaches and chopped pecans for a Southern touch.
Assembling the salad
To create a truly Southern salad with bourbon vinaigrette, we need to carefully select our greens and add layers of sweetness and crunch. Let’s break this down step by step to make the perfect salad.
Selecting the greens
I like to start with a base of Bibb lettuce or Kentucky Bibb lettuce because it’s tender and has a mild flavor. If you prefer a bit more bite, watercress or spinach can add a peppery zest.
For extra variety, I sometimes mix in torn Bibb lettuce with spinach to balance the flavors. This combination creates a lovely blend of textures and colors. Make sure to wash and dry the greens thoroughly to keep the salad fresh.
If you want something different, try adding a handful of red onion slices for a hint of sharpness. They really bring out the other flavors in the salad.
Adding sweetness and crunch
Sweetness and crunch are vital for a satisfying salad. I usually dice up peaches and apples. Pears can be a lovely alternative if you want something extra juicy. These fruits bring natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the greens.
To add crunch, I recommend chopping some pecan halves and pieces. Toasting them lightly in a skillet can enhance their flavor. Trust me; it’s worth the extra step!
For a richer flavor, crumble some goat cheese or Gorgonzola cheese over the salad. This not only adds creaminess but also a bit of tang that contrasts nicely with the sweet fruits.
Don’t forget the crispy elements; sprinkling crumbled bacon or even some country ham corn cakes brings a delightful savory touch. These ingredients add texture while keeping the calorie count in check.
By mindfully combining these elements, you’ll create a well-rounded and delicious Southern salad that’s sure to impress.