Fresh Green Salad with Fruits and Nuts
Fresh Green Salad with Fruits and Nuts Recipe - Belgian Delight
Introduction
Fresh Green Salad with Fruits and Nuts is a delightful and refreshing salad that combines the crispness of endive and apples with the richness of cheese and walnuts. The tangy dressing adds a burst of flavor that complements the sweetness of the fruits and nuts perfectly.
History
This recipe is a modern twist on the classic green salad, which has been a staple in many cuisines for centuries. The combination of fresh greens, fruits, nuts, and cheese has been enjoyed by people around the world for its delicious flavors and health benefits.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Wash the chicory and Belgian endives.
- Cut them into smaller salad-sized pieces.
- Cut the apples into small 0.5 inch slices.
- For the dressing, mix together the oil, cream, lemon juice, mustard, and chopped parsley in a small bowl.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- In a salad bowl, mix together the vegetables, apples, and walnuts.
- Add the cheese and dressing.
- Toss and serve with roast turkey and mashed potatoes.
Variations
- Add dried cranberries or raisins for a touch of sweetness.
- Substitute pecans or almonds for the walnuts.
- Use a different type of cheese, such as feta or blue cheese, for a different flavor profile.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to wash the chicory and Belgian endives thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
- Cut the apples into small slices to ensure that they are evenly distributed throughout the salad.
- Toasting the walnuts before adding them to the salad can enhance their flavor and crunchiness.
- The dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs well with roast turkey, grilled chicken, or baked fish. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a light and healthy lunch or dinner option.
Cooking Techniques
Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant.
- Use a mandoline slicer to thinly slice the apples for a more uniform texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use pears instead of apples for a different flavor.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for the cream in the dressing for a lighter option.
Make Ahead Tips
The dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad ingredients can also be prepared in advance and assembled just before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the salad in a large bowl or on individual plates for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with additional chopped parsley or a sprinkle of cheese for added color and flavor.
Pairing Recommendations
This salad pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. It also complements a light beer or sparkling water with a splash of citrus.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The dressing may separate slightly, so be sure to toss the salad before serving. Do not freeze the salad as the texture of the ingredients may change.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of this salad contains approximately 300 calories, making it a light and nutritious option for a meal or side dish.
Carbohydrates
This salad is a good source of carbohydrates, with the apples and endives providing natural sugars and dietary fiber. The walnuts also contribute complex carbohydrates that help keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Fats
The walnuts and olive oil in this salad provide healthy fats that are essential for brain function and overall health. The cheese adds a creamy richness that enhances the flavor of the salad.
Proteins
While this salad is not a significant source of protein, the cheese and walnuts do provide some protein to help support muscle growth and repair.
Vitamins and minerals
This salad is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the apples and lemon juice, vitamin K from the endives, and calcium from the cheese. The walnuts also provide essential minerals like magnesium and phosphorus.
Alergens
This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and nuts (walnuts), so it may not be suitable for those with allergies to these ingredients.
Summary
Overall, this Fresh Green Salad with Fruits and Nuts is a well-rounded dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a delicious and nutritious option for a light and refreshing meal.
Summary
Fresh Green Salad with Fruits and Nuts is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the flavors of endive, apples, cheese, and walnuts with a tangy dressing. This salad is a great option for a light and refreshing meal or side dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Fresh Green Salad with Fruits and Nuts. It was a warm summer afternoon, and I was sorting through a stack of old recipe cards that I had collected over the years. As I shuffled through the cards, my eyes landed on the vibrant green salad adorned with colorful fruits and nuts. I was immediately intrigued.
I had always been drawn to recipes that incorporated fresh, seasonal ingredients, and this one seemed to fit the bill perfectly. The combination of crisp greens, juicy fruits, and crunchy nuts was enticing, and I knew I had to give it a try.
As I read through the ingredients and instructions, memories flooded back to me of the different places and people from whom I had learned to cook. My mother had taught me the basics of cooking when I was a young girl, and I had honed my skills over the years by experimenting with various recipes and techniques.
One of the most important lessons I had learned was the value of using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Whether it was vegetables from the garden, fruit from the local farmer's market, or nuts and seeds from the health food store, I always made sure to source the best ingredients I could find.
I also learned the importance of balance in cooking. Each ingredient had its own unique flavor and texture, and it was essential to combine them in a way that created a harmonious and delicious dish. This salad, with its mix of sweet and savory flavors, seemed to embody that principle perfectly.
I decided to make the salad for dinner that evening, using a mix of fresh lettuce, ripe strawberries, crunchy almonds, and tangy vinaigrette. As I chopped and tossed the ingredients together, the kitchen filled with the delightful aroma of fresh produce and nuts.
When I took the first bite of the finished salad, I was blown away by the explosion of flavors and textures in my mouth. The crisp greens contrasted beautifully with the juicy strawberries, and the crunchy almonds added a satisfying crunch. The vinaigrette tied everything together with its tangy sweetness.
I savored every bite, feeling a sense of pride and accomplishment at having created such a delicious and nutritious dish. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my cooking repertoire, a go-to dish for family gatherings and dinner parties alike.
As I finished my meal, I thought back to all the different recipes I had learned over the years, each one a testament to the rich tapestry of culinary traditions that had shaped my cooking style. From my mother's hearty stews to my grandmother's delicate pastries, each recipe held a special place in my heart and had contributed to my love of cooking.
I realized that cooking was more than just following a set of instructions; it was a way to connect with the past, to honor the traditions and memories of those who had come before me. And as I sat at the table, surrounded by the delicious aroma of fresh salad, I felt grateful for all the lessons I had learned and eager to continue my culinary journey for years to come.
Categories
| Apple Recipes | Belgian Endive Recipes | Belgian Endive Salad Recipes | Belgian Recipes | Cheese Recipes | Chicory Recipes | Chicory Salad Recipes | Mustard Seed Recipes | Potato Recipes | Thanksgiving Side Dishes | Turkey Meat Recipes |