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Satisfying ingredients such as chicken sausage and mozzarella can turn a simple salad into a hearty meal with little prep time needed.
Here's an example: A varied combination of components helps the following salad stand on its own at the dinner table, with pecans adding a surprising crunch to a Mediterranean-style recipe.
To get the most flavor from the pecans, toast them ahead of time. Spread pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 300 degrees for 10 to 12 minutes or until lightly browned in color and crisp.
Mediterranean Chopped Salad With Pecans
12-ounce package cooked chicken sausage, preferably seasoned with herbs
6-ounce bunch arugula, rinsed and patted dry
8 1/2-ounce jar sun-dried tomatoes packed in olive oil and herbs
8 ounces fresh mozzarella, cut in small cubes
2/3 cup chopped pecans, toasted
Preparation time: 25 minutes.
Grill or pan-fry chicken sausage until browned. Set aside to cool slightly.
Coarsely chop arugula and spread on a large serving platter. Arrange sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella and pecans in alternating diagonal rows, leaving space for rows of sausage.
When sausage is cool enough to handle, slice crosswise into bite-size chunks; arrange on platter. Drizzle with your favorite Italian-style dressing and serve.
Makes six servings.
Nutrition information per serving: about 420 calories, 30g protein, 27g carbohydrates, 20g total fat (6g saturated), 69mg cholesterol, 873mg sodium.
Source: Georgia Pecan Commission.