Apple, Almond & Blue Cheese Salad 🥗
Overview:
Indulge in the harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors with this delectable Apple, Almond & Blue Cheese Salad recipe. Bursting with freshness and wholesome goodness, this salad is a delightful addition to any meal or a standalone dish that’s sure to impress. With crisp apples, crunchy almonds, creamy blue cheese, and a zesty homemade dressing, each bite offers a symphony of tastes and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. Best of all, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or elegant gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 2 green onions
- 2 tablespoons vinegar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 head romaine lettuce
- 2 bunches watercress
- 2/3 cup blue cheese
- 3 red apples
- 2/3 cup toasted almonds
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Begin by gathering all the ingredients to ensure a smooth preparation process. |
| 2 | Wash and dry the romaine lettuce and watercress thoroughly. Chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces and discard any tough stems from the watercress. |
| 3 | Slice the green onions thinly, separating the white and green parts. Set aside. |
| 4 | Core the apples and cut them into thin slices or bite-sized chunks, depending on your preference. |
| 5 | In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, watercress, sliced apples, toasted almonds, and crumbled blue cheese. Toss gently to distribute the ingredients evenly. |
| 6 | To prepare the dressing, in a blender, combine the white parts of the green onions, vinegar, lemon juice, pepper, salt, and sugar. Blend until smooth and well-combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. |
| 7 | Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly. |
| 8 | Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual plates, garnishing with the reserved green parts of the green onions for a pop of color. |
| 9 | Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures in every bite! |
Tips:
- For added crunch and flavor, toast the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant. Be sure to watch them closely to prevent burning.
- To prevent the apples from browning, you can toss them with a little lemon juice before adding them to the salad.
- Feel free to customize the salad by adding additional ingredients such as dried cranberries, sliced pears, or grilled chicken for a heartier option.
- Make the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a week. Simply give it a good shake before using.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 447.8
- Fat: 41g
- Saturated Fat: 6.9g
- Cholesterol: 11.3mg
- Sodium: 405.6mg
- Carbohydrates: 15.8g
- Fiber: 4.5g
- Sugar: 9.2g
- Protein: 8.6g
Final Thoughts:
This Apple, Almond & Blue Cheese Salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will elevate any mealtime experience. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing side dish or a light and satisfying lunch, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the vibrant colors, tantalizing tastes, and wholesome ingredients of this delicious salad!
