Apple, Candied Pecans, and Blue Cheese Salad

Salads are often viewed as simple side dishes. However, when made with care, they can become the star of the show. One standout creation is the Apple, Candied Pecan, and Blue Cheese Salad. This vibrant salad perfectly blends the sweetness of fresh apples, the crunch of candied pecans, and the rich flavor of blue cheese, creating a culinary experience that excites the palate.

The Apple, Candied Pecan, and Blue Cheese Salad is a flavorful combination that suits various occasions. Whether served as a side, main dish, or at a summer picnic, this salad pleases many palates.

Its vibrant colors and enticing flavors encourage culinary creativity. Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties like Gala for a sweeter taste or Granny Smith for extra tartness. You could also swap out pecans for walnuts, which have 5 times more omega-3 fatty acids, or even try different cheeses like feta for a milder taste.

Explore the unique harmony of these ingredients, and you may discover that you keep returning to this salad for its delicious and refreshing qualities. It's not just a salad; it's an experience that celebrates simple yet rich flavors in every bite

Apple, Candied Pecan & Blue Cheese Salad With a Honey Dijon Vinaigrette

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time (for pecans): 10 minutes

Total Time: ~25 minutes

Salad Ingredients

• 5 oz mixed greens or spring mix

• 1–2 crisp apples (like Honeycrisp or Pink Lady), thinly sliced

• ⅓ cup crumbled blue cheese

• ½ cup candied pecans (recipe below or store-bought)

• ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced

• Optional: ¼ cup dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds

Candied Pecans (Quick Method)

• ½ cup pecan halves

• 1 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp brown sugar

• Pinch of cinnamon

• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until bubbling.

2. Add pecans and stir to coat. Cook 2–3 minutes until glossy and fragrant.

3. Spread on parchment paper to cool and harden.

Honey Dijon Vinaigrette

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 1½ tbsp apple cider vinegar (or white balsamic)

• 1 tbsp honey

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:Whisk all ingredients together in a small bowl or shake in a jar until emulsified.

Assembly Instructions

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

2. Drizzle with the vinaigrette and toss gently to coat.

3. Top with candied pecans and crumbled blue cheese.

4. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with a few extra apple slices or a drizzle of honey.

Tips & Variations

• Make it heartier with grilled chicken or roasted turkey.

• Not a blue cheese fan? Use goat cheese or feta instead.

• For added crunch, toss in thinly sliced celery or shaved fennel.

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