Introduction
Celebrating the art of culinary presentation and flavor harmony, this Company Salad exemplifies the elegance and simplicity that can elevate any holiday gathering or special occasion. As featured on Love With Recipes, this dish balances crunchy textures, creamy cheese, tart apples, and a tangy vinaigrette, creating an ensemble that is as visually stunning as it is delightful to taste. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner, an elegant brunch, or a casual get-together, this salad offers versatility, ease of preparation, and a burst of seasonal freshness that will impress your guests and elevate your culinary repertoire.
Time
Preparation Time
Approximately 5 minutes. This includes toasting the walnuts, slicing the apples, and preparing the dressing if made from scratch.
Cooking Time
Approximately 2 minutes, primarily for toasting the walnuts.
Total Time
Approximately 7 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for last-minute preparations or quick assembly before serving.
Needed Equipment
- Dry skillet or frying pan
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls (preferably large for tossing salad)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Zester or fine grater (optional for dressing)
- Salad tongs or large spoons for mixing
- Serving platter or individual plates
- Small bowl for dressing (if making homemade vinaigrette)
Tags
Holiday, Festive, Elegant, Quick, Easy, Healthy, Vegetarian, Appetizer, Main Course, Salad, Vegetarian, Nutty, Cheesy, Fresh, Crowd-Pleaser
Serving Size
Serves 4 people generously, making it ideal for a family meal or small gathering. Adjust quantities proportionally for larger groups or smaller servings.
Difficulty Level
Easy. This recipe requires minimal culinary skills and is suitable for beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike. The focus is on quick assembly and simple techniques.
Allergen Information
| Allergen | Present in Recipe | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Nuts | Walnuts | Toasted walnuts add crunch and flavor; omit or substitute if nut allergies are present. |
| Dairy | Gorgonzola cheese | Contains dairy; can be substituted with blue cheese or feta for dairy-free options. |
| Fruits | Apples, cranberries, vinaigrette | Potential allergen for some; check ingredients in store-bought dressings. |
Dietary Preference
Vegetarian. This recipe contains no meat or seafood. For vegans, substitute cheese with plant-based alternatives and ensure vinaigrette ingredients are vegan-friendly.
Course
Appetizer or side dish. It pairs beautifully with main courses like roasted meats, grilled fish, or vegetarian entrees.
Cuisine
American, with seasonal influences. The ingredients and presentation lend themselves to festive and contemporary American dining.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Walnuts | 8 | Lightly toasted for enhanced flavor and crunch |
| Gorgonzola cheese | 3/4 cup | Crumbled; can substitute with blue cheese or feta |
| Green apples (tart varieties like Granny Smith) | 8 | Cored and thinly sliced |
| Fresh lemon juice | 2 tablespoons | For tossing apples | dried cranberries | 1/4 cup | For sweetness and color contrast |
| Mixed salad greens | 4 cups | Use fresh, crisp greens like arugula, spinach, or a spring mix |
| Raspberry vinaigrette | As desired | Homemade or store-bought |
Instructions
Step 1: Toast the Walnuts
Begin by preheating a dry skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Once the pan is warm, add the walnuts in a single layer, ensuring even contact with the surface. Toast the walnuts, stirring frequently, until they turn golden brown and emit a fragrant aroma. This process typically takes about 2 minutes but requires close attention to prevent burning. Once toasted, transfer the walnuts to a plate or bowl to cool. Toasted walnuts not only enhance the flavor but also add a satisfying crunch that complements the other ingredients.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
While the walnuts cool, wash and core the tart green apples, such as Granny Smith, which provide a balanced tartness to offset the richness of the cheese and sweetness of cranberries. Using a sharp chef’s knife and a stable cutting board, slice the apples thinly to maximize their texture and visual appeal. Immediately toss the apple slices with 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. This step is crucial to prevent oxidation, which causes browning, and adds a bright citrus note that enhances the overall flavor profile of the salad. Use a gentle folding motion to coat all slices evenly with the lemon juice.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the 4 cups of fresh, crisp salad greens. Use a variety of greens if desired, such as baby arugula, spinach, or mesclun for added texture and color. Add the toasted walnuts and crumbled gorgonzola cheese to the greens. Gently toss the ingredients to distribute them evenly, taking care not to crush the delicate cheese slices. Next, add the lemon-tossed apple slices to the bowl, again tossing gently to integrate all components harmoniously. The goal is to achieve a balanced distribution of flavors and textures with each serving spoonful.
Step 4: Incorporate Cranberries
Sprinkle the dried cranberries over the assembled salad. Their tart sweetness provides a delightful contrast to the creamy cheese and crunchy nuts, while their vibrant red color adds visual appeal. This step should be done carefully to ensure even coverage across the salad, making each serving visually attractive and flavorful.
Step 5: Dress the Salad
Drizzle the raspberry vinaigrette over the salad. For an elegant touch, homemade vinaigrette can be prepared by blending fresh or preserved raspberries, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss the salad gently to coat all ingredients thoroughly without bruising the greens or breaking the apple slices. Adjust the amount of dressing based on your preference—less for a lighter salad, more for a more pronounced flavor. For convenience, pre-mixed dressings from the store can also be used, provided they align with the flavor profile.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the dressed salad onto a serving platter or distribute evenly onto individual plates. For a festive presentation, garnish with extra crumbled cheese or a few whole cranberries. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh, crisp textures and vibrant flavors. Accompany this salad with your favorite main course, such as roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a hearty holiday ham, and consider serving with crusty artisan bread or a light dessert to complete the meal.
Preparation Tips
- Walnuts: Keep a close eye during toasting to prevent burning, which can impart a bitter taste. Toast walnuts until they are fragrant and slightly darker at the edges.
- Apples: Use tart green apples like Granny Smith or Pippin for a balanced flavor. For an extra crunch, refrigerate apples before slicing.
- Cheese: Crumble the gorgonzola just before assembling to maintain its texture and flavor integrity. For a milder profile, substitute with feta or blue cheese.
- Dressing: Homemade raspberry vinaigrette is preferable for freshness and control over sweetness and acidity. To make your own, blend 1/4 cup raspberry preserves, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1/4 cup olive oil, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Assembly: Gently toss ingredients to avoid breaking delicate apple slices and to ensure even distribution of flavors.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 380.4 kcal | 19% |
| Fat | 30.7 g | 47% |
| Saturated Fat | 11.9 g | 60% |
| Cholesterol | 42.5 mg | 14% |
| Sodium | 792.1 mg | 33% |
| Carbohydrates | 14.2 g | 5% |
| Fiber | 3.1 g | 12% |
| Sugar | 8.1 g | 9% |
| Protein | 15.7 g | 31% |
| *Percent Daily Values based on a 2,000-calorie diet. | ||
Tips and Tricks
- Customize the nuts: Substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or pistachios for variety.
- Cheese options: For a milder flavor, try crumbled feta or goat cheese. For a stronger flavor, blue cheese works beautifully.
- Make it vegan: Use vegan cheese and ensure your vinaigrette contains no honey or dairy ingredients.
- Presentation: For a stunning visual, layer ingredients in clear glass bowls or arrange on a large platter with decorative elements like edible flowers.
- Dressings: Experiment with different vinaigrettes—balsamic, raspberry, or citrus—to suit your taste preferences and complement other dishes.
Add-ons and Variations
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken strips, roasted shrimp, or seared tofu to make it more substantial.
- Fruit Variations: Incorporate pomegranate seeds, sliced strawberries, or pear slices for seasonal twists.
- Herb Enhancements: Garnish with fresh herbs such as mint, basil, or thyme for added freshness.
- Crunch Elements: Sprinkle toasted seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for extra texture.
Side Dishes to Complement
- Crusty artisan bread or baguette slices
- Herbed hummus or flavored dips
- Light soup such as butternut squash or tomato basil
- Simple roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal
Improvements and Variations
For an elevated version, consider adding a drizzle of honey or balsamic reduction on top. Incorporate roasted beets or caramelized onions for depth of flavor. To add a smoky element, include smoked almonds or chips. For a more decadent touch, sprinkle with edible gold flakes or serve alongside a glass of sparkling wine for a luxurious experience.
Save and Store
This salad is best enjoyed fresh immediately after dressing to preserve the crispness of greens and freshness of apples. To store leftovers, keep the components separately: store the dressing in an airtight container, toasted walnuts in a sealed jar, and assemble just before serving to prevent sogginess. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Re-toss with dressing before serving if needed.
FAQ
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
While the salad is best served immediately after assembly, you can prepare individual components ahead—toast walnuts, slice apples, and prepare dressing in advance. Assemble and toss together just before serving to maintain freshness and crunch.
Can I omit nuts or cheese?
Absolutely. For nut allergies, omit walnuts or substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower. For dairy-free options, skip cheese or use plant-based cheese alternatives. The flavor profile will change slightly but remain delicious.
Is this salad suitable for vegans?
Yes, with modifications. Replace gorgonzola with vegan cheese options and ensure the vinaigrette contains no honey or dairy products. Use plant-based dressings for a fully vegan dish.
What wine pairs well with this salad?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio complements the tart apples and tangy vinaigrette beautifully. For a festive touch, consider sparkling wine or dry rosé.
Conclusion
This Company Salad embodies the perfect balance of textures, flavors, and visual appeal, making it a standout dish for any festive occasion. Its quick assembly time and adaptable ingredients make it an ideal choice for both last-minute preparations and planned celebrations. The combination of crunchy toasted walnuts, creamy gorgonzola, tart green apples, and sweet cranberries, all coated in a vibrant raspberry vinaigrette, creates a symphony of flavors that will delight your guests and elevate your culinary presentation. Remember, the key to a memorable salad is freshness, balance, and thoughtful presentation—elements that this recipe delivers effortlessly. Whether for an elegant holiday feast or an everyday healthy meal, this salad will surely become a staple in your repertoire. Be sure to explore more delicious recipes on Love With Recipes and share your culinary creations with loved ones. Happy cooking!
References
- American Heart Association: Nutritional guidelines for salads
- Food & Wine Magazine: Tips on toasting nuts and flavor pairing