Crispy Apple & Cranberry Grilled Salad
This Crispy Apple & Cranberry Grilled Salad combines fresh mixed greens with the rich, tangy flavors of blue cheese, the sweetness of dried cranberries, and the crunch of toasted pecans. Sliced Granny Smith apples add a refreshing bite to this vibrant mix, creating a beautifully colorful dish that's perfect for brunch or any gathering. Drizzled with a homemade maple vinaigrette, this salad is not just a meal but a delightful experience that balances flavors and textures. Make it for your next lunch or serve it as a side to your favorite grilled meats!
N/A
Servings
175
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Fresh mixed salad greens
8 ounces (washed and dried)
Blue cheese
3 ounces (crumbled)
Dried cranberries
6 ounces (none)
Granny Smith apples
2 (sliced thin)
Pecans
4 ounces (toasted)
Maple vinaigrette dressing
to taste (prepared according to the linked recipe)
Instructions
1
Start by preparing the maple vinaigrette dressing as per the linked recipe.
2
In a large bowl, layer the fresh mixed salad greens as the base.
3
On top of the greens, evenly distribute the crumbled blue cheese, ensuring it’s sprinkled throughout.
4
Add the dried cranberries generously over the salad, creating bursts of sweetness.
5
Thinly slice the Granny Smith apples and arrange them attractively on top of the salad.
6
Sprinkle the toasted pecans over the apples for an added crunch.
7
Finally, drizzle the homemade maple vinaigrette dressing over the entire salad just before serving for optimum freshness.
8
Toss the salad gently if desired, or serve it in layers for a stunning presentation.
Nutrition Information
11.7g
Fat
16.7g
Carbs
3.3g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients in the Crispy Apple & Cranberry Grilled Salad?
The main ingredients include fresh mixed salad greens, blue cheese, dried cranberries, Granny Smith apples, toasted pecans, and a maple vinaigrette dressing.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this salad is vegetarian as it contains only plant-based ingredients and dairy cheese.
What type of apples are used in this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for 2 Granny Smith apples, sliced thin for a crisp and tart flavor.
How many calories are in a serving of this salad?
Each serving of this salad contains approximately 175 calories.
What kind of cheese is recommended for this dish?
The recipe uses 3 ounces of crumbled blue cheese to provide a rich and tangy flavor profile.
How should I prepare the pecans for this salad?
The 4 ounces of pecans should be toasted to enhance their flavor and add extra crunch.
What dressing is recommended for the Crispy Apple & Cranberry Grilled Salad?
The salad is dressed with a homemade maple vinaigrette dressing.
Can I substitute the mixed greens with another type of lettuce?
Yes, you can substitute the 8 ounces of mixed greens with spinach, arugula, or your preferred lettuce base.
Are the cranberries used in this recipe fresh or dried?
This recipe uses 6 ounces of dried cranberries for bursts of sweetness throughout the salad.
How much blue cheese is required?
You will need 3 ounces of crumbled blue cheese for this recipe.
What is the suggested preparation for the apples?
The Granny Smith apples should be sliced thin and arranged attractively on top of the greens.
How much protein does this salad provide?
This salad provides approximately 3.3 grams of protein per serving.
What is the total fat content of this salad?
The salad contains approximately 11.7 grams of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in each serving?
There are 16.7 grams of carbohydrates in each serving of this salad.
Is this salad a good choice for a brunch gathering?
Yes, its vibrant colors and sweet-savory balance make it an ideal dish for brunch or any social event.
Should the salad be tossed or layered?
You can either toss the salad gently to mix or serve it in layers for a more stunning presentation.
How many ounces of mixed salad greens are needed?
The recipe requires 8 ounces of washed and dried mixed salad greens.
What provides the 'crispy' texture in this salad?
The crispiness is provided by the fresh, thinly sliced Granny Smith apples and the toasted pecans.
Can I use walnuts instead of pecans in this recipe?
Yes, toasted walnuts would be an excellent substitute for pecans if you prefer.
What is the first step in assembling the salad?
The first step is to prepare the maple vinaigrette dressing according to the linked recipe.
Is this salad considered a healthy meal option?
Yes, it is tagged as healthy and features fresh fruits, nuts, and greens.
Can I add other fruits like pears to this salad?
While not in the original recipe, sliced pears would complement the blue cheese and maple dressing well.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
You can prep the ingredients beforehand, but wait to add the sliced apples and dressing until serving to maintain freshness.
How many apples are needed for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 Granny Smith apples.
What is the weight of pecans used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 4 ounces of toasted pecans.
What quantity of dried cranberries should be included?
You should include 6 ounces of dried cranberries in the salad.
When should I add the maple vinaigrette?
Drizzle the maple vinaigrette over the salad just before serving to ensure the greens and apples stay crisp.
What is a good substitute for blue cheese?
If you find blue cheese too strong, you can substitute it with crumbled feta or goat cheese.
Is this recipe suitable as a side dish?
Yes, it is excellent served as a side to grilled meats or as a light standalone lunch.
What is the overall flavor profile of this salad?
The salad offers a balance of tangy cheese, sweet cranberries, tart apples, and a smooth maple finish.