Deliciously Tangy Apple Gorgonzola Salad Recipe
Picture this: the crisp fall air, the sound of laughter, and the aroma of a delicious meal. As a home chef who loves throwing parties, my goal is to make every gathering unforgettable. And no gathering is complete without the perfect salad. That’s why I’m excited to share with you one of my all-time favorite recipes: Apple Gorgonzola Salad.
This salad is a classic combination of sweet and savory flavors that everyone will enjoy. Juicy apples, salty prosciutto, crunchy walnuts, and tangy gorgonzola cheese come together in a bed of mixed baby lettuces and spring greens to create a perfectly balanced dish. And if that’s not enough, we’ll even add some raisins for extra sweetness.
But what truly sets this recipe apart is the homemade dressing. Made with apple cider vinegar and Dijon mustard, this dressing provides a zesty punch that blends well with the gorgonzola’s bold flavor.
Whether you’re hosting an intimate brunch or a large family dinner, this salad is guaranteed to be a hit. With fresh, seasonal ingredients and a homemade dressing, it’s a crowd-pleaser perfect for any occasion.
So get ready to impress your guests with this exquisite dish – I promise you won’t regret it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you tired of boring salads that are a chore to eat? Look no further than this delectable apple gorgonzola salad recipe. You’ll love the mix of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
First, let’s talk about the apples – these beauties add a crisp sweetness to the salad. I prefer using mixed baby lettuces and spring greens as the base, but feel free to use whichever greens you like. The gorgonzola cheese adds a savory tang that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the apples. You’ll also find succulent raisins, crunchy walnuts, and salty prosciutto in every bite.
But what truly sets this salad apart is the homemade vinaigrette made with a perfect combination of olive oil, Dijon mustard and apple cider vinegar – this dressing perfectly complements all the ingredients in the salad.
Not only is this salad packed full of delicious flavors, but it’s also incredibly nutritious. Apples are known for their high content of fiber and antioxidants, making this heart-healthy dish an excellent side to any meal.
But don’t take my word for it – try this recipe out for yourself and see how quickly it becomes your favorite. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch or need to impress guests at your next dinner party, this apple gorgonzola salad recipe is sure to please.
Ingredient List
Get The Best Quality Ingredients
Before we start cooking, it’s essential to have a careful look at the ingredient list. To make this Apple Gorgonzola Salad Recipe perfect, we need fresh and high-quality ingredients.
Here is what you will need:
– Mixed Baby Lettuces and Spring Greens: 4 cups
– Green Apple: 1 (sliced thin)
– Red Apple: 2 chopped
– Celery: 1 cup chopped
– Grapes: 1 cup (halved)
– Walnuts: 1/4 cup (chopped)
– Candied Walnuts: 1/4 cup
– Raisins: 1/4 cup (chopped)
– Prosciutto Ham: 3 oz. (sliced thin)
– Gorgonzola Cheese: 1/2 cup crumbled
– Smoked Almonds: 1/4 cup
Dressing Ingredients
- Olive Oil: 1/2 cup
- Balsamic Vinegar: 1/3 cup
- Red Wine Vinegar:2 tbsp
- Dijon Mustard: 1 tsp.
- Sugar: 1 tsp.
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Having a complete list of ingredients ready beforehand helps to start cooking without any hassle. Get all these ingredients and kickstart your cooking adventure!
The Recipe How-To
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Make sure you have all your ingredients ready before you start assembling the salad. You don’t want to be caught off guard in the middle of making a gorgonzola salad! Start by washing and drying 3 cups of mixed baby lettuces and spring greens thoroughly. Next, core and slice up 3 green apples, making sure to leave the skin on for optimal nutrition. Finally, you’ll also need 1 cup of chopped walnuts and 1 cup of crumbled gorgonzola cheese, which can be easily obtained at your local grocery store.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
The key to this apple gorgonzola salad recipe is in the dressing. In a small mixing bowl, add 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Slowly pour in 1/2 cup of olive oil, whisking constantly until it emulsifies into a creamy vinaigrette.
Step 3: Combine All Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the greens, sliced apples, chopped walnuts, and crumbled gorgonzola cheese. Drizzle the honey balsamic vinaigrette over the top, making sure everything is evenly coated.
Step 4: Add Prosciutto (Optional)
For an extra punch of flavor and texture, thinly slice some prosciutto and add it to the salad right before serving.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
This salad can be served alongside any main dish or as a standalone meal. The combination of sweet apples, salty cheese, crunchy nuts, and tangy dressing will make each bite a delectable experience.
Substitutions and Variations
Apple Gorgonzola Salad is a delicious and healthy dish that you can customize to your own taste. Here are some substitutions and variations you can apply to this recipe to make it your own:
– Protein: If you would like to add more protein to your salad, try using grilled chicken breast or thinly sliced flank steak instead of prosciutto.
– Nuts: Walnuts can be replaced with pecans or almonds for a different flavor profile in the salad. You can also use smoked almonds or candied pecans for an extra kick.
– Cheese: Gorgonzola cheese can be substituted with blue cheese if you prefer a milder flavor. Feta cheese can also work well in this salad.
– Greens: For a heartier salad, try using kale or spinach instead of mixed greens. Add some thinly sliced brussels sprouts for some crunch and texture.
– Fruit: Instead of apples, try using pears or figs in the salad for a sweet and tangy flavor. Dried cherries or cranberries can also be used instead of raisins.
– Dressing: Balsamic vinaigrette can be replaced with honey mustard or raspberry vinaigrette for a different taste. You can also add some red wine vinegar to give it a little zing.
These substitutions and variations will surely give your Apple Gorgonzola Salad recipe that added twist you’re looking for. Don’t forget to play around with the ingredients and create your own signature dish!
Serving and Pairing
This apple gorgonzola salad is a delightful and refreshing side dish that pairs perfectly with various meals. The sweet and tangy flavors of the apples and raisins mixed with the creamy, tangy taste of the gorgonzola cheese go well with many dishes. Here are some pairing suggestions to elevate your meal:
– Grilled chicken or fish: The lightness of the salad complements the smoky flavor of grilled meats. It’s a great way to add some freshness to your meal.
– Beef or pork dishes: The richness of the meat is balanced by the crispness of the ingredients in this salad.
– Pasta dishes: This salad is an excellent accompaniment to a hearty pasta dish like lasagna or baked ziti. The salad’s texture and flavors will complement the pasta’s texture and enhance its flavor.
– Pizza: Whether you’re ordering out or making pizza at home, apple gorgonzola salad pairs remarkably well with any pizza variety, especially those that contain prosciutto.
– Sandwiches or Wraps: This versatile salad works well as a side dish for any sandwich or wrap, from a classic ham and cheese sandwich to an exotic spicy falafel wrap.
For serving suggestions, gently toss the salad before serving to ensure that each ingredient gets evenly coated with the vinaigrette. You can serve this salad on its own or as part of a larger meal. Either way, it’s sure to be a hit!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
One of the most important things to consider when making a salad is its longevity. Fortunately, the Apple Gorgonzola Salad recipe is quite versatile in terms of storing and reheating.
Making this salad ahead of time can be a smart move to save time during meal prep. The good news is that you can prepare all elements of the salad in advance, but store them separately to preserve their freshness. Store the mixed baby lettuces and spring greens in an airtight container, while the sliced apples, walnuts, prosciutto, raisins, and crumbled gorgonzola cheese should be stored separately in sealable plastic bags.
Once you’re ready to serve, take out all of the ingredients from the fridge and toss them together with the dressing. Give it a quick toss and serve immediately.
But what if you have leftovers? Refrigerate it immediately in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to one day. However, note that if your salad has already been dressed, you will want to consume it as soon as possible because the greens will wilt quickly.
As for reheating, salads are not typically meant to be heated up as they are best served cold. But if you still want to serve it warm, try removing any cold ingredients like sliced apples and crispy lettuces and then sautéing the remaining ingredients (prosciutto, walnuts, etc.) with some olive oil over medium heat until heated through. Then re-assemble the warm ingredients on top of your chilled greens for a delicious balance of flavors.
Overall, this Apple Gorgonzola Salad recipe is ideal for home chefs who love throwing parties or preparing meals ahead of time. With these simple storing and reheating tips, you can enjoy this delectable salad recipe anytime you want!
Tips for Perfect Results
Hi there, my fellow home chefs! Now that you have the ingredients and steps for making a delicious apple gorgonzola salad, let me share with you some tips for ensuring the perfect outcome.
Tip #1: Keep it crispy and fresh
One of my favorite parts of this salad is the mixture of textures from the crispy apples, crunchy walnuts, and tender mixed greens. To ensure maximum freshness, toss the greens with the dressing just before serving so they won’t become soggy. Similarly, slice the apples and prosciutto thinly to preserve their crunchiness.
Tip #2: Balance the flavors
This salad has a perfect mix of sweet and savory flavors. But it’s crucial to make sure they’re balanced. Taste as you go along and adjust the amounts of ingredients if needed. If it comes out too sweet for you, consider adding more Dijon mustard or apple cider vinegar.
Tip #3: Don’t overdo it with the gorgonzola
Gorgonzola is a strong-flavored cheese that can quickly overpower everything else in the dish. Use just enough to provide a tangy richness without making it too cheesy. Try sprinkling a small amount of crumbled gorgonzola on top of fruit slices rather than adding it throughout.
Tip #4: Experiment with different variations
Don’t be afraid to play around with substitutions based on your personal preferences – this recipe is easily adaptable. For example, try using goat cheese instead of gorgonzola or pecans instead of walnuts. You can also add some protein by including grilled chicken or shrimp.
Tip #5: Presentation matters
With its colorful combination of ingredients, this apple gorgonzola salad is already visually impressive. Take it up another notch by arranging ingredients nicely on a large platter or serving each portion in individual stemless wine glasses.
I hope these tips will help you create a memorable and tasty salad that your guests will love!
FAQ
Before we wrap it up, let’s dive into some frequently asked questions about the apple gorgonzola salad recipe. These answers will help you troubleshoot any issues and ensure your salad turns out perfectly every time.
What is Gorgonzola dressing made of?
For a mouth-watering dressing that’s perfect for salads, sandwiches, or burgers, mix together 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 1/4 cup of sour cream, and 1/2 cup of crumbled Gorgonzola cheese, which comes out to about 2 ounces. If you really want to step up the flavor profile, you can also try substituting the Gorgonzola cheese with some smoked blue cheese. This recipe is set to be ready by August 3, 2022.
How many calories in a apple gorgonzola salad?
The Apple Gorgonzola Salad from Buca di Beppo contains 290 calories in a 1/4 small serving with dressing. This information is provided by the % Daily Value (DV), which indicates the nutrient contribution of a food serving to the recommended daily intake based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Such details are crucial for diners aiming to maintain a healthy diet.
What do we call to a salad made of fresh apples celery grapes walnuts dressed with mayonnaise and served on a bed of lettuce?
If you’re looking for a refreshingly simple salad recipe that’s perfect for any meal, the classic Waldorf Salad is definitely worth trying! This delicious fruit-filled salad was first served at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel back in 1896, and it’s still a popular dish today. With diced apples, crunchy walnuts, sweet grapes, and crisp celery all tossed in a creamy mayonnaise dressing, it’s a fantastic combination of flavors and textures. Plus, it’s a light and easy option that’s great for summer lunches or dinners. If you’re ready to whip up a batch of this classic salad, keep reading for my step-by-step instructions and helpful tips!
What is apple salad made of?
Let’s whip up a delicious salad that combines the sweet and tangy flavors of cubed apples, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and chopped celery. To add a bit of texture to this mix, we’ll toss in some miniature marshmallows and chopped pecans or walnuts. And to bring it all together, we’ll use fat-free mayonnaise as our creamy dressing.
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing salad that’s sure to impress, look no further than this apple gorgonzola salad recipe. Bursting with sweet and savory flavors, it’s the perfect dish to serve at your next party or gathering.
Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and adaptable to your tastes. From substituting different types of lettuce to adding in your favorite fruits and nuts, the possibilities are endless.
With its heart-healthy ingredients like apples and walnuts, this salad is not only delicious, but also nutritious. Plus, the creamy gorgonzola cheese adds a rich and indulgent flavor that everyone will love.
So if you want to wow your guests and make them feel like they’re dining at a fancy restaurant, whip up a batch of this apple gorgonzola salad. Trust me, it’ll be a hit every time.
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Apple Gorgonzola Salad Recipe
Ingredients
Dressing
- 1 egg white
- 2 tablespoons apple juice concentrate, thawed
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon white balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- salt and pepper
Salad
- 8 cups mixed baby lettuces and spring greens
- 1/3 cup gorgonzola, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped & toasted
- 1/2 cup raisins (or craisins)
- 2 apples, thinly sliced (I like green apples)
- 5 slices prosciutto, chopped
Instructions
- Whisk together the egg white, apple juice concentrate, cider vinegar, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and olive oil to make the dressing.
- Whisk well for about 1 minute. Season with salt and pepper; set aside.
- Toss the salad ingredients together. Drizzle dressing over the top of salad. Serve immediately.
Your Own Notes
Nutrition
Anna is a culinary expert who specializes in grilling delicious BBQ dishes. She also enjoys sharing her recipes and experiences with her foodie community on her blog. She’s the total package for any backyard barbecue!