Ever since I had the delightful First Watch Honey Pecan Salad, I knew I had to recreate this restaurant favorite in my own kitchen. As I mentioned, me and my husband Ben love First Watch recipes. Last weekend I made up my mind to make the salad. So, I took out my car, bought the ingredients from a local shop and prepared the salad.
The combination of sweet, savory, and creamy textures is simply irresistible. Plus, this salad boasts a fantastic balance of protein, healthy fats, and fresh greens, making it a satisfying and guilt-free lunch or light dinner option.
Once I finally got to assemble and take that first bite…let’s just say my happy dance moves came back out! It tasted every bit as delicious as the First Watch version, maybe even better since it was homemade with love. Ben and I practically licked our plates clean!
So are you as excited as I am to try this recipe?! Let’s jump in!
Why Make This Sweet Salad Recipe?
Let me tell you there are several reasons why you should ditch the takeout menu and whip up this First Watch Honey Pecan Salad copycat recipe at home:
Flavor Explosion: The sweet and savory elements in this salad create a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave you craving for more. The honey Dijon dressing adds a delightful tanginess that perfectly complements the sweetness of the pecans and the savory notes of the chicken and cheese.
Healthier Option: While the restaurant version is delicious, you can control the ingredients at home. Opt for leaner proteins, use less dressing, or add extra veggies for a healthier twist.
Versatility: While the original recipe calls for specific ingredients, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary requirements. Swap out the greens, add your favorite vegetables, or experiment with different types of cheese – the possibilities are endless!
Restaurant-Quality Taste: First Watch is renowned for its mouthwatering dishes, and this honey pecan salad recipe allows you to recreate that restaurant-quality taste in the comfort of your own home.
How to Make This First Watch Honey Pecan Salad
This First Watch sweet honey pecan salad recipe is surprisingly simple to make. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients
- 5 oz organic mixed greens or spring mix: The base of the salad, these fresh greens provide a crisp and refreshing foundation for the other flavors to shine.
- 1/2 romaine lettuce, chopped: Add texture and crunch, this sturdy lettuce variety complements the delicate greens perfectly.
- 1 grilled or baked chicken breast, sliced: A lean source of protein that adds substance and savory notes to the salad. Feel free to use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- 1/2 cup toasted pecan halves: Adds a sweet, nutty crunch and a delightful textural contrast.
- 1 avocado, diced: Creamy and rich, offering healthy fats and a touch of sweetness.
- 1 tomato, diced: Adds a burst of juicy freshness and vibrant color.
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots: A touch of sweetness and a source of vitamins and minerals.
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese blend: A creamy and flavorful topping that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
- 1/4 cup honey Dijon dressing: The crowning glory, this tangy-sweet dressing ties all the flavors together in perfect harmony.
Step by Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Make topping for the Salad Salad Dressing
In a medium hot skillet, add honey mustard, sweet honey pecans, shredded chicken breast and some pickles. Mix them well until they combine well and become juicy sauce.
Step 2: Prepare The Salad
Now in a bowl or plate, add spring mix, shredded carrots,sliced tomatoes and shredded cheese on top of it. Some avocado slices and mix well.
Step 3: Final Touch
Now, add the salad dressing on the top of the salad and your first watch honey pecan salad is ready.
Recipe Substitutions & Variations
- Gluten-Free: Opt for a gluten-free bread option when serving alongside the salad, or simply enjoy it on its own.
- Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with chickpeas, grilled tempeh, or crumbled tofu for a plant-based protein alternative.
- Flavor Twists: Feeling adventurous? Here are some ideas to personalize your salad:
- Fruity Additions: Dried cranberries, chopped apples, or mandarin oranges add a touch of sweetness and tang.
- Veggie Boost: Thinly sliced red onion, chopped cucumber, or crumbled blue cheese add a new dimension of flavor and texture.
- Dressing Variations: Experiment with different flavored vinaigrettes, such as balsamic or poppyseed dressing, for a change of pace.
What to Serve With This Honey Pecan Salad
- Brunch Perfection: Pair the salad with a stack of fluffy French Toast drizzled with maple syrup for a decadent brunch experience.
- Classic Comfort: For a satisfying lunch, enjoy the salad alongside a hearty slice of toasted Multigrain Bread with a light spread of butter.
- Sandwich Synergy: Turn this salad into a complete meal by adding a Chicken Salad Mount Sandwich. The creamy chicken salad complements the sweet and savory flavors of the salad, while the bread adds a satisfying element.
- Soup Starter: Start your meal with a light and refreshing soup, like creamy tomato or chilled gazpacho.
Leftover and Storing Tips
While the First Watch Honey Pecan Salad is best enjoyed fresh, you may find yourself with leftovers. Here are some tips for storing and enjoying them later:
- Store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To revive the greens, give them a light misting of water before serving, or add a few drops of lemon juice to the dressing.
- If the avocado has browned, simply remove and replace it with fresh diced avocado when you’re ready to serve.
- Leftover toasted pecans can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week.
First Watch Honey Pecan Salad Recipe
FIRST WATCH HONEY PECAN SALAD COPYCAT - A vibrant spring mix salad topped with juicy chicken, crispy bacon, candied pecans, and creamy avocado. It's then drizzled with a sweet and tangy honey Dijon dressing for an incredibly flavorful and satisfying salad experience.
Ingredients
- 5 oz organic mixed greens or spring mix
- 1/2 romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 grilled or baked chicken breast, sliced
- 1/2 cup toasted pecan halves
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese blend
- 1/4 cup honey Dijon dressing
Instructions
- In a medium hot skillet, add honey mustard, sweet honey pecans, shredded chicken breast and some pickles. Mix them well until they combine well and become juicy sauce.
- Now in a bowl or plate, add spring mix, shredded carrots,sliced tomatoes and shredded cheese on top of it. Some avocado slices and mix well.
- Now, add the salad dressing on the top of the salad and your first watch honey pecan salad is ready.
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size: 1 large salad platteAmount Per Serving: Calories: 950Total Fat: 53gSaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 1440mgCarbohydrates: 87gFiber: 15gSugar: 48gProtein: 33g
The nutrition information provided below is estimated using an online nutrition calculator and should not be considered medical advice or guaranteed to be accurate. Please consult a professional for any dietary needs or restrictions.
FAQs
What if I don’t have honey Dijon dressing?
A store-bought vinaigrette will work in a pinch, but for the most authentic flavor, try making your own honey Dijon dressing.
Is this salad healthy?
I must admit that this salad can be a healthy and balanced meal. It incorporates lean protein, healthy fats from avocado, vitamins from vegetables, and fiber from the greens.
What if I’m allergic to nuts?
No problem! Simply omit the toasted pecans from the recipe. You can add an alternative like sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts for a similar crunch, but be sure to check for any allergies beforehand.
How can I make this salad more kid-friendly?
For picky eaters, consider offering the salad components on a platter and allowing them to build their own creation. Dice the chicken breast into smaller pieces and skip the spicier vegetables like red onion. You can also offer a side of ranch dressing for dipping.
Conclusion
Whenever I feel like I want to have something sweet and healthy I try this recipe. Believe me!! This First Watch Honey Pecan Salad is a must try salad recipe if you are sweet lover and health conscious like me. The perfect blend of honey dressing, candied pecans, fresh greens, and juicy toppings is an addictive flavor combo. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also nutritious and easy to make.
If you’re a fellow sweet tooth looking for a satisfying salad, you must give this recipe a try. Once you taste it, you’ll be hooked – so do yourself a favor and make it soon! Don’t forget to share this crowd-pleasing salad with friends and family.
