Crisp Apple Gorgonzola Salad with Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette
Indulge in the delightful meld of flavors with this Crisp Apple Gorgonzola Salad. Inspired by the iconic dish at Buca di Beppo, my version elevates every bite with a crunchy mix of fresh romaine and artisan greens, tart Granny Smith apples, and rich, creamy Gorgonzola. The toasted walnuts add a nutty depth, while the sweet-tart dried cranberries offer bursts of flavor. For a touch of elegance, oven-baked prosciutto can be included for an added savory note. Complementing this masterpiece is a homemade balsamic vinaigrette, luxuriously creamy with a hint of sweetness. You can also swap in apple cider vinegar for an alternate twist that surprises the palate. Perfect for gatherings or a simple family meal, this salad is a true crowd-pleaser that brings people together around the table.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
17
Ingredients
Ingredients
Romaine lettuce
16 ounces (Chopped (or use spring mix or artisan lettuces))
Granny Smith apples
2 (Chopped)
Walnuts
1 cup (Toasted)
Dried cranberries
1/4 cup (None)
Gorgonzola cheese
1/2 cup (Crumbled)
Prosciutto
1/4 lb (Baked and crumbled (optional))
Anchovy paste
1 1/2 teaspoons (None)
Balsamic vinegar
1/3 cup (None)
Water
3 tablespoons (None)
Dried oregano
1 teaspoon (None)
Pepper
3/4 teaspoon (None)
Salt
3/4 teaspoon (None)
Garlic
1 clove (Minced)
Sugar
1 tablespoon (None)
Cornstarch
2 tablespoons (None)
Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup (Grated)
Olive oil
1 cup (None)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If using prosciutto, arrange the thin slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes or until crispy, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. Remove from the oven and let cool before crumbling.
2
To toast the walnuts, spread them evenly on a baking sheet and bake for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and fragrant. Once toasted, let them cool.
3
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, diced Granny Smith apples, toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, crumbled Gorgonzola cheese, and crumbled prosciutto (if using). Toss gently to combine.
4
For the dressing, place the anchovy paste, balsamic vinegar, water, dried oregano, salt, pepper, minced garlic, sugar, cornstarch, and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese in a blender. Blend the mixture until smooth. With the blender running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the dressing is emulsified and creamy. Refrigerate until ready to use.
5
Before serving, drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mixture and toss lightly to coat everything evenly. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main dish described in this recipe?
The dish is a Crisp Apple Gorgonzola Salad with Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette.
What type of apples are used in this salad?
The recipe calls for two chopped Granny Smith apples.
How should the walnuts be prepared?
The walnuts should be toasted on a baking sheet at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 5-10 minutes until golden and fragrant.
Is the prosciutto a required ingredient?
No, the baked and crumbled prosciutto is an optional savory addition.
What kind of cheese is featured in the salad mix?
Crumbled Gorgonzola cheese is the primary cheese featured in the salad.
What cheese is used to flavor the balsamic dressing?
A 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese is blended into the vinaigrette.
Can I use a different type of lettuce?
Yes, you can use Romaine lettuce, spring mix, or artisan greens.
How do I make the prosciutto crispy?
Arrange thin slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
What ingredients make up the creamy balsamic dressing?
The dressing includes anchovy paste, balsamic vinegar, water, dried oregano, salt, pepper, garlic, sugar, cornstarch, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
Does the dressing contain any seafood?
Yes, the recipe uses 1.5 teaspoons of anchovy paste in the dressing.
How is the dressing emulsified?
By slowly drizzling the olive oil into the blender while it is running until the mixture becomes creamy.
Can I substitute the balsamic vinegar for another type?
Yes, the recipe suggests swapping in apple cider vinegar for an alternate flavor profile.
How should the dressing be stored?
The dressing should be refrigerated until you are ready to use it.
When is the best time to add the dressing to the salad?
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss just before serving for the freshest flavor.
Is this salad considered a healthy option?
Yes, the recipe is tagged as healthy and features fresh greens, fruit, and nuts.
How many total ingredients are used in this recipe?
There are 17 ingredients in total.
What type of fruit besides apples is included?
Dried cranberries are included to provide sweet-tart bursts of flavor.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, you should omit the prosciutto and the anchovy paste.
What is the inspiration behind this salad recipe?
It is inspired by the iconic Crisp Apple Gorgonzola Salad served at Buca di Beppo.
What helps thicken the dressing?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and grated Parmesan cheese to help create a creamy consistency.
Is there any sugar in the dressing?
Yes, one tablespoon of sugar is added to provide a hint of sweetness.
Which dried herb is used for seasoning?
One teaspoon of dried oregano is used in the dressing.
How should the garlic be prepared?
The recipe calls for one clove of garlic, minced.
Is this recipe suitable for a crowd?
Yes, it is described as a crowd-pleaser perfect for gatherings or family meals.
What is the recommended serving size?
Specific serving sizes are not listed, but it utilizes 16 ounces of lettuce as a base.
Should the walnuts be hot when added to the salad?
No, the instructions state to let the walnuts cool after toasting before combining them with the greens.
How much olive oil is required?
The dressing requires 1 cup of olive oil.
Is this recipe difficult to prepare?
No, it is tagged as an easy recipe.
Can I use water to thin the dressing?
The recipe already includes 3 tablespoons of water in the base mixture to achieve the desired consistency.