Belgian Endive Salad with Stilton and Apples

Belgian Endive Salad with Stilton and Apples Recipe

Region / culture: Belgium | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Belgian Endive Salad with Stilton and Apples is a refreshing and elegant dish that combines the crisp bitterness of Belgian endive and radicchio with the sharpness of Stilton cheese and the sweet tartness of apples. This salad is dressed in a shallot-infused vinaigrette, offering a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Perfect for a sophisticated starter or a light meal, this recipe brings a touch of gourmet to your dining table.

History

The origins of combining endive with apples and cheese in salads can be traced back to European culinary traditions, where the contrast between bitter, sweet, and savory elements is often celebrated. Belgian endive, a chicory family member, has been a prized ingredient in European kitchens since the 19th century. Stilton cheese, with its rich history dating back to the 18th century in England, adds depth and character to the dish. This recipe, while modern in its approach, pays homage to the timeless appeal of its ingredients.

Ingredients

6 shallots (about 1 oz (28 g) each), peeled
0.5 cup extra-virgin olive oil
6 tbsp red wine vinegar
1.5 tbsp dijon mustard
0.5 tsp sugar
2 Granny Smith or Newtown Pippin apples (1 lb (454 g) total), rinsed
1 lb (454 g) white belgian endive
1 lb (454 g) red belgian endive or red radicchio
0.67 lb (304 g) stilton cheese, crumbled
salt, to taste
freshly ground black pepper, to taste

How to prepare

In an 8- or 9-inch wide pan, combine shallots with approximately 1 tsp of olive oil.
Bake in a 350°F (177°C) oven, stirring occasionally, until the shallots are slightly browned and just tender when pierced, about 40 minutes (or 20 to 25 minutes in a convection oven).
Once cool enough to handle, finely chop the shallots.
In a wide bowl, combine the shallots, 0.5 cup of olive oil, vinegar, mustard, and sugar.
Peel the apples, quarter them, remove the cores, and cut them lengthwise into 0.13 inch slivers.
Add the apple slices to the bowl and mix them with the dressing.
Slice the white and red Belgian endive lengthwise into 0.13 inch-wide strips.
Add the endive and cheese to the bowl.
Gently mix everything together, and season the salad to taste with salt and pepper.

Variations

For a nuttier flavor, add walnuts or pecans to the salad.
Substitute blue cheese or goat cheese for Stilton for a different flavor profile.
Add slices of grilled chicken or smoked salmon to make the salad a more substantial meal.

Notes

Up to 1 day ahead, roast and chop shallots (step 1); chill airtight. Trim discolored ends from Belgian endive (or radicchio); rinse leaves, drain, wrap in towels, enclose in a plastic bag, and chill at least 15 minutes or up to 1 day.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results for your Belgian Endive Salad, consider the following tips:

- Use fresh, crisp Belgian endive and radicchio for the best texture.

- When baking shallots, ensure they are tender but not overly browned to maintain a subtle sweetness.

- For the dressing, adjust the vinegar and mustard to taste, balancing the acidity and tanginess according to your preference.

- Slice the apples just before adding them to the salad to prevent browning.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is best served fresh, with the dressing mixed in just before serving to maintain the crispness of the endive and apples. It can be served as a standalone light meal or as a sophisticated starter for a multi-course dinner. Pair it with crusty bread or crackers for added texture.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the shallots until tender and then mixing them into the dressing allows their sweetness to infuse the vinaigrette, adding depth to the salad's flavor. Slicing the endive and apples thinly ensures a delicate texture that complements the crumbled Stilton cheese.

Ingredient Substitutions

If Belgian endive is not available, substitute with another bitter green like escarole or frisée.

- Use a different type of firm, tart apple if Granny Smith or Newtown Pippin apples are not available.

- Balsamic vinegar can be used in place of red wine vinegar for a sweeter dressing.

Make Ahead Tips

The shallot dressing can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble the salad just before serving to maintain the freshness and crispness of the ingredients.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the salad on a large platter or in individual bowls. Garnish with extra crumbled Stilton cheese and a few thin apple slices on top for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs beautifully with white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, which complement the crispness of the apples and the tanginess of the cheese. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a sparkling apple cider.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not store well once dressed. If you have leftover ingredients, store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble the salad just before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Belgian Endive Salad with Stilton and Apples contains approximately 200-250 calories. The exact calorie count may vary based on the specific amounts and types of ingredients used.

Carbohydrates

This salad is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being the apples and shallots. Apples provide a natural sweetness and are a good source of dietary fiber. The total carbohydrate content will vary depending on the size and type of apples used but expect approximately 15-20 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

The majority of the fat in this salad comes from the extra-virgin olive oil and Stilton cheese. Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are known for their heart-healthy benefits. Stilton cheese, while higher in saturated fat, is used in moderation, contributing to the dish's overall richness and flavor. The total fat content per serving is approximately 15-20 grams, with a balance of healthy fats and saturated fats.

Proteins

Stilton cheese is the primary protein source in this salad, providing both flavor and a moderate amount of protein. Cheese, in general, is a good source of high-quality protein, and Stilton is no exception. The protein content per serving will be around 7-10 grams, making this salad a light protein option.

Vitamins and minerals

Belgian endive and radicchio are excellent sources of vitamins A and K, as well as folate and fiber. Apples contribute vitamin C and additional fiber, while Stilton cheese offers calcium and phosphorus. This salad is a nutrient-dense option that supports overall health with a variety of essential vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

The primary allergen in this recipe is dairy, found in Stilton cheese. Individuals with a dairy allergy or intolerance should avoid this dish or consider a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Summary

Overall, Belgian Endive Salad with Stilton and Apples is a balanced dish that offers a variety of nutrients, including healthy fats, moderate protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is relatively low in carbohydrates and calories, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a light yet satisfying meal.

Summary

Belgian Endive Salad with Stilton and Apples is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for a light meal or sophisticated starter. With its combination of crisp endive, tart apples, rich Stilton cheese, and a shallot-infused vinaigrette, this salad is sure to impress. By following the tips and variations provided, you can customize the dish to suit your taste and dietary needs.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Belgian Endive Salad with Stilton and Apples. It was a warm summer day, and I had been invited to a potluck dinner at a friend's house. As I walked into the kitchen, I saw a beautiful platter of endive leaves, topped with crumbled blue cheese and slices of crisp apple. The colors and textures were so enticing, I couldn't help but ask my friend for the recipe.

She smiled and told me that it was a family recipe passed down through generations. She had learned it from her grandmother, who had learned it from her grandmother, and so on. I was fascinated by the history behind this simple salad and knew that I had to learn how to make it myself.

My friend graciously agreed to show me how to prepare the salad, and I eagerly watched as she expertly sliced the endive, crumbled the Stilton cheese, and tossed everything together with a light vinaigrette. The flavors and textures were a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and crunchy, and I knew that this salad would become a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made this salad countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my own tastes. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all marveled at its unique combination of flavors. I have even entered it into a few cooking competitions, where it has won me several blue ribbons.

But the true joy of this recipe lies not in its accolades, but in the memories it has brought me. Every time I make this salad, I am transported back to that warm summer day in my friend's kitchen, filled with the sense of wonder and excitement that comes from discovering a new recipe.

As I sit down to enjoy a bowl of Belgian Endive Salad with Stilton and Apples, I am reminded of all the wonderful people and places that have influenced my cooking over the years. From my friend's grandmother's kitchen to the potluck dinners and cooking competitions, each experience has shaped me into the cook I am today.

I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from others, to share my own recipes, and to continue exploring the world of food and flavors. And as I take another bite of this delicious salad, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for all the joy and nourishment that cooking has brought into my life.