Description
Introducing the Crisp Apple Delight Salad, an exquisite blend of flavors and textures perfect for any season. This salad is a harmonious mix of crunchy apples, pecans, creamy cheese, and juicy pomegranate seeds, all topped off with a sweet and tangy maple vinaigrette. It’s not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visually appealing dish that promises to be a hit at any dining table.
Ingredients
- 1 crisp tart apple (like Pink Lady)
- 8 cups mixed greens or tender lettuces (like butter, Bibb lettuce, frisee)
- ¼ cup candied pecans (or toasted pecans)
- ¼ cup feta or goat cheese crumbles
- ¼ cup pomegranate seeds or dried cranberries
- Optional: chopped fresh thyme, for garnish
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons apple cider
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 6 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh ground black pepper (optional)
Step-by-step Directions
1. Prepare the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, apple cider, Dijon mustard, salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Gradually add the olive oil, one tablespoon at a time, whisking continuously until the dressing is emulsified and creamy.
2. Thinly Slice the Apple
Wash and thinly slice the apple. For a decorative touch, consider cutting the apple slices into half-moons or matchstick shapes.
3. Assemble the Salad
On a large platter, arrange the mixed greens. Evenly distribute the sliced apples, candied pecans, cheese crumbles, and pomegranate seeds (or dried cranberries) over the greens.
4. Drizzle and Serve
Generously drizzle about 6 tablespoons of the maple vinaigrette over the salad. If desired, garnish with chopped fresh thyme before serving.
Servings & Preparation Time
Servings: 4-6 people
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Tips for Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Keep the salad components separate and refrigerate them. The dressing can be stored in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks.
- Prevent Apple Browning: Toss apple slices in a little lemon juice before storing to keep them fresh and crisp.
- Reassembly: For best taste, bring the dressing to room temperature and assemble the salad just before serving.
Conclusion
The Crisp Apple Delight Salad is a versatile and delightful dish that captures a perfect balance of flavor and texture. Whether you are looking for a healthy weekday lunch or an impressive side dish for dinner parties, this salad is guaranteed to enjoy. Its ease of preparation combined with its gourmet appeal makes it a must-try recipe for any occasion.
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Crisp Apple Delight Salad
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 people 1x
Description
Introducing the Crisp Apple Delight Salad, an exquisite blend of flavors and textures perfect for any season. This salad is a harmonious mix of crunchy apples, pecans, creamy cheese, and juicy pomegranate seeds, all topped off with a sweet and tangy maple vinaigrette. It’s not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visually appealing dish that promises to be a hit at any dining table.
Ingredients
- 1 crisp tart apple (like Pink Lady)
- 8 cups mixed greens or tender lettuces (like butter, Bibb lettuce, frisee)
- ¼ cup candied pecans (or toasted pecans)
- ¼ cup feta or goat cheese crumbles
- ¼ cup pomegranate seeds or dried cranberries
- Optional: chopped fresh thyme, for garnish
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons apple cider
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 6 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh ground black pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, apple cider, Dijon mustard, salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Gradually add the olive oil, one tablespoon at a time, whisking continuously until the dressing is emulsified and creamy.
- Thinly Slice the Apple: Wash and thinly slice the apple. For a decorative touch, consider cutting the apple slices into half-moons or matchstick shapes.
- Assemble the Salad: On a large platter, arrange the mixed greens. Evenly distribute the sliced apples, candied pecans, cheese crumbles, and pomegranate seeds (or dried cranberries) over the greens.
- Drizzle and Serve: Generously drizzle about 6 tablespoons of the maple vinaigrette over the salad. If desired, garnish with chopped fresh thyme before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes