Bright, bold, and bursting with Southern charm, this Zydeco Salad is a vibrant celebration of fresh, colorful ingredients and zesty Cajun flavors. Perfect for lunch or as a side dish, this salad combines crisp mixed greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, sweet corn, and creamy avocado with the crunch of toasted pecans coated in a spiced honey-Cajun glaze. Tied together with a creamy Cajun buttermilk dressing infused with garlic, lemon, and parsley, this recipe delivers the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory. Quick to prepare and packed with texture, this salad is a standout choice for anyone looking to spice up their meal with the soulful flavors of Louisiana.
Preheat a small skillet over medium heat. Add pecans and toast for 3-5 minutes until fragrant, stirring often to prevent burning.
In a small bowl, combine 2 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning, 1 teaspoon of honey, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Drizzle this mixture over the toasted pecans and toss to coat. Set aside to cool.
Prepare the dressing by whisking together mayonnaise, buttermilk, lemon juice, garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, and chopped parsley in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste and refrigerate until ready to use.
In a large salad bowl, combine mixed salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cooked sweet corn, diced red bell pepper, thinly sliced red onion, and diced avocado.
Sprinkle the cooled Cajun pecans over the salad mix.
Drizzle the Cajun dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine. Serve immediately.
Calories |
1746 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 143.0 g | 183% | |
| Saturated Fat | 17.4 g | 87% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 13.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 66 mg | 22% | |
| Sodium | 1742 mg | 76% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 116.8 g | 42% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 32.3 g | 115% | |
| Total Sugars | 33.7 g | ||
| Protein | 24.4 g | 49% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.8 mcg | 4% | |
| Calcium | 276 mg | 21% | |
| Iron | 7.0 mg | 39% | |
| Potassium | 3033 mg | 65% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.