Pecan Grape Salad (Print Version)

Juicy grapes folded into a creamy vanilla dressing and finished with toasted pecans for a cool, crunchy potluck salad.

# Ingredients:

For the salad

01 - 1 lb (450 g) seedless red grapes
02 - 1 lb (450 g) seedless green grapes
03 - 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
04 - 1/2 cup (120 g) sour cream
05 - 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
06 - 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
07 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
08 - 1/8 teaspoon fine salt

For the pecan topping

09 - 3/4 cup (85 g) chopped pecans
10 - 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar

# Instructions:

01 - Rinse the grapes under cool running water. Remove stems, discard any soft grapes, and dry the grapes very well with a clean towel.
02 - Place the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant and lightly toasted. Transfer to a plate to cool.
03 - Add the softened cream cheese to a large bowl and beat until smooth. This helps the dressing stay creamy instead of lumpy.
04 - Beat in the sour cream, mayonnaise, granulated sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth and evenly blended.
05 - Add the dry grapes to the bowl and fold gently with a spatula until every grape is lightly coated.
06 - Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Just before serving, mix the cooled pecans with brown sugar and sprinkle over the salad.

# Notes:

01 - Chill for at least 1 hour before serving for the best texture.
02 - Add pecans just before serving so they stay crisp.
03 - Leftovers keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.