Grilled Apple Tossed Salad
The grilled apples in this salad combine so well with the blue cheese, walnuts and balsamic dressing. I like to serve it on pink Depression glass dessert plates from my great-grandmother.
The grilled apples in this salad combine so well with the blue cheese, walnuts and balsamic dressing. I like to serve it on pink Depression glass dessert plates from my great-grandmother.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 6 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 cup minced fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1 package (5 ounces) spring mix salad greens
- 1/4 cup white or regular balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon sriracha asian hot chili sauce
- 2 large apples, cut into 1/2-inch wedges
- 1 cup walnut halves toasted
- Carbohydrate 6.34901722483938 g
- Cholesterol 8.4375 mg
- Fat 18.1365977792515 g
- Fiber 1.36570142604791 g
- Protein 7.21453541676338 g
- Saturated Fat 3.22602194464745 g
- Serving Size 1 1 servings. (48g)
- Sodium 157.727027777999 mg
- Sugar 4.98331579879147 g
- Trans Fat 1.35289861116348 g
- Calories 206 calories
Step-by-step
- For dressing, whisk together first eight ingredients.
- In a bowl, toss apples with 1/4 cup dressing.
- Place apple slices on a grill rack over medium heat; reserve dressing left in bowl.
- Grill apples, covered, until tender and lightly browned, 3-4 minutes per side, brushing with reserved marinade.
- To serve, toss greens with remaining dressing.
- Top with grilled apples, walnuts and cheese.
A Simple Salad with a Sweet and Savory Twist: Grilled Apple Tossed Salad
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and healthy meal can be a challenge. Weeknights are often a whirlwind of homework, extracurricular activities, and the never-ending task of keeping the house tidy. But that doesn't mean I sacrifice good food! This Grilled Apple Tossed Salad is my go-to recipe when I need something quick, satisfying, and elegant enough to impress even unexpected guests. It's a perfect blend of sweet and savory, crunchy and creamy, and it takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for those rushed weeknights. The beauty of this salad lies in its simplicity. The grilling process brings out a delightful caramelization in the apples, enhancing their natural sweetness and providing a lovely contrast to the tangy blue cheese and the peppery bite of the balsamic vinaigrette.
The combination of ingredients is surprisingly harmonious. The crisp greens provide a refreshing base, while the toasted walnuts add a satisfying crunch. The creamy blue cheese offers a sharp, tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the grilled apples. And the homemade balsamic dressing ties everything together beautifully. Its subtle sweetness, balanced with the tanginess of the vinegar and the gentle heat of sriracha, makes it the perfect complement to the other flavors. I love experimenting with different types of apples in this salad; Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala all work exceptionally well. The key is to choose a firm apple that will hold its shape on the grill. The grilling time is crucial; you want the apples to be tender but not mushy. A few minutes on each side is usually enough, but keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
This salad is incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the ingredients to your liking. Feel free to add other fruits, such as pears or berries, or experiment with different types of nuts or cheeses. Sometimes, I add a handful of dried cranberries for an extra burst of sweetness and texture. It also makes a fantastic side dish for grilled chicken or fish, transforming a simple weeknight dinner into something truly special. The leftovers are just as delicious the next day, making it a great option for meal prepping. Ultimately, this Grilled Apple Tossed Salad is more than just a meal; it's a testament to the fact that even in the midst of a busy life, we can still savor delicious, healthy, and thoughtfully prepared food.
Beyond its practicality, this salad holds a special place in my heart. It reminds me of simpler times, of leisurely afternoons spent with family, sharing stories and laughter around the dining table. The act of preparing this salad, from chopping the apples to carefully whisking the dressing, is a form of mindfulness for me, a chance to disconnect from the daily hustle and connect with myself and the food I’m creating. This isn't just a salad; it's a small act of self-care, a reminder to slow down and appreciate the simple pleasures in life, even amidst the chaos of a busy week.
Tips and Variations:
- Apple Selection: Firm apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala hold their shape best on the grill. Avoid overly soft or mealy apples.
- Grilling Technique: Use medium heat and keep an eye on the apples to prevent burning. Adjust grilling time depending on the thickness of the apple slices.
- Dressing Variations: Experiment with different vinegars (balsamic, red wine, apple cider) or add a touch of Dijon mustard for extra flavor.
- Add-ins: Get creative with add-ins! Consider adding crumbled goat cheese, pecans, dried cranberries, or even grilled chicken or shrimp.
- Make Ahead: The dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad itself is best assembled just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting.
This Grilled Apple Tossed Salad is more than just a recipe; it’s a journey into the heart of simple, wholesome eating, a testament to the power of fresh ingredients, and a reminder to savor the little moments in life. Try it out, and I'm confident it will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!
