Mixed Greens and Apple Bowl

This Mixed Greens and Apple Bowl is a vibrant and refreshing salad that combines the crunch of fresh fruit and nuts with the creamy texture of goat cheese. It is a simple yet sophisticated dish featuring crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, and a tangy cider vinaigrette, making it the perfect choice for a light lunch or a fresh side dish.

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With its beautiful colors and diverse textures, this salad is as visually appealing as it is delicious. The combination of mixed greens and apple slices provides a nutritious base that pairs wonderfully with the bold notes of the homemade vinaigrette.

Ingredients

• 6 cups mixed salad greens (e.g., arugula, spinach, romaine)
• 2 medium apples (such as Gala or Granny Smith), cored and thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
• 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)
• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

Step 1

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Gradually whisk in the olive oil until the dressing is emulsified. Set aside.

Step 2

In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, apple slices, walnuts, cheese, red onion, and dried cranberries (if using).

Step 3

Drizzle the cider vinaigrette over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to combine and coat the ingredients evenly.

Step 4

Serve immediately.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Use a whisk and a small bowl to ensure your vinaigrette is properly emulsified before adding it to the salad. To maintain the crispness of the ingredients, it is best to toss everything together just before you are ready to serve.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can swap walnuts for pecans or almonds for a different nutty flavor. For a bolder taste, use blue cheese or shaved Parmesan in place of goat or feta. To make this recipe vegan, simply use maple syrup in the dressing and a plant-based cheese alternative.

Serviervorschläge

This bowl is excellent on its own, but you can add grilled chicken or roasted chickpeas for extra protein. It serves as a fantastic light lunch or a refreshing accompaniment to a main course.

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Enjoy this fresh and vibrant Mixed Greens and Apple Bowl. It is a quick and healthy way to bring high-quality flavors to your table with minimal effort.

Recipe FAQs

→ What apples work best in this salad?

Gala and Granny Smith apples are ideal choices. Gala offers natural sweetness while Granny Smith provides tart contrast. Firm varieties that hold their shape when sliced work best.

→ Can I make the vinaigrette ahead?

Yes, whisk together the vinaigrette ingredients and store in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to a week. Bring to room temperature and shake well before using.

→ How do I keep apples from browning?

Toss sliced apples in a little lemon juice immediately after cutting. This prevents oxidation and keeps them looking fresh for several hours.

→ What protein can I add?

Grilled chicken breast, roasted chickpeas, hard-boiled eggs, or quinoa make excellent additions. These transform the side into a complete, satisfying meal.

→ Can I make it nut-free?

Absolutely. Substitute walnuts with sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or omit nuts entirely. The salad remains delicious and texturally interesting.