Maple Pecan Christmas Salad

ingredients

• 1 cup pecans
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons brandy (optional)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 200g cherry tomatoes, sliced
• ½ bunch basil, leaves torn
• 200g bocconcini balls
• 1 small red onion, sliced
• 2 Lebanese cucumbers, sliced into rounds

Dressing

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic glaze
• Sprinkle salt

method

1. Heat frypan over medium heat, add pecans and toast for 2 minutes, stirring often. After two minutes, add the maple, sugar, brandy and cook for another 1-2 minutes until candied (be careful not to burn!).
2. In a large bowl combine cucumber, tomato, red onion, bocconcini, basil and dress with the olive oil, balsamic and salt.
3. Top with pecans and serve!