Tart granny smith apples combine with all of the crunchy goodness of nuts, seeds, and bacon to bring you this Mouth-Watering Candy Apple Salad recipe that is just loaded with yum! The creamy Gorgonzola Cheese balances out all the delicious flavors and makes this salad simply heavenly.
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Ingredients
- Lettuce
- Apple
- Bacon
- Red onion
- Candied pecans
- Dried cherries
- Gorgonzola cheese
- Pumpkin seeds
- Sunflower seeds
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Salt
- Pepper
Dressing
Note: Refer to the recipe card below for exact quantities.
Instructions
Step One: Prepare the Dressing
There are several ways to prepare homemade salad dressings:
1). Use a bowl to whisk or stir the ingredients together.
2). Put all of your ingredients in a mason jar with a lid, then give it a little shake.
3). Use a stick blender to blend the salad dressing ingredients together. This is helpful if the dressing includes a garlic clove or anchovies.
4). Use an oil and vinegar dispenser with your favorite extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar to drizzle on salads as needed.
Homemade salad dressings are easy to make if you keep some essential ingredients on hand. See our Top 10 Favorite Salad Dressing Recipes for the dressings we love the most.
Step Two: Prepare the Protein
Cook bacon according to package directions.
Step Three: Prepare Ingredients
Cut or tear up lettuce into small portions. Wash all lettuce and produce thoroughly, then set it aside to drain in a colander. While lettuce is draining, dice all remaining ingredients into small salad-sized portions.
Step Four: Assemble and Serve
Assemble the salad in layers with lettuce on the bottom, followed by fresh sliced apples, vegetables, bacon, dried cherries, gorgonzola cheese, candied pecans, and seeds.
Add a small amount of dressing and give it a good toss. Taste and adjust seasonings as necessary. Serve immediately.
Substitutions
- Lettuce - Romaine lettuce would also work well in this dish.
- Apples - I prefer the Granny Smith apple variety. If these aren't available at your local grocer, try substituting a Honeycrisp apple.
- Dried cherries - Try substituting Craisins if you are unable to find dried cherries.
Equipment
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Storage
Store salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator without dressing for 2-3 days. If the salad is moist from being washed, place a paper towel on top of it to draw out the moisture.
Top Tips
Buy pre-washed and ready-to-eat lettuce to save time.
More Recipes
Have leftover ingredients?
- Excess apples? Try this Waldorf salad recipe.
In the mood for a similar dish?
Try these other fruit salad ideas:
More lunch recipes you will love:
FAQ
If you prefer a milder taste, then yes. Soaking red onions in ice water for 20-30 minutes will mellow out their flavor.
📖 Recipe
Candy Apple Salad
Equipment
- Meat tenderizer
- Wire rack
Ingredients
Use desired amount(s)
- Baby butter lettuce
- Grannysmith apple
- Bacon
- Red onion
- Candied pecans (see recipe link below)
- Dried cherries
- Crumbled gorgonzola cheese
- Pumpkin seeds
- Sunflower seeds
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Salt (or to taste)
- Pepper (or to taste)
Instructions
- Wash and tear lettuce. Set aside to drain in colander.
- In a small fry pan, cook bacon according to package directions. Drain grease. In another small fry pan, cook candied pecans. Set them aside to cool on a wire rack.
- Prepare salad with all ingredients. Drizzle balsamic vinegar and olive oil over the top. Toss and serve.
Food Safety
Cook bacon according to package instructions.
- Wash hands and create a clean work area.
- Rinse fresh produce thoroughly.
- Do not use the same cutting board or utensils on cooked food or produce, that previously touched raw meat or seafood.
- Do not leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods.
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