Festive Belgian Endive and Apple Salad with Cranberry Mustard Vinaigrette
Bring a burst of flavors and colors to your table with this vibrant Belgian Endive and Apple Salad. The crisp, slightly bitter leaves of Belgian endive are perfectly balanced with the sweetness of fresh apples, crunchy walnuts, and tart cranberries. The homemade cranberry mustard vinaigrette adds a delightful zing that elevates this salad, making it a fantastic side dish for holiday feasts or any special occasion. This salad is not only visually appealing with its stunning contrasts but also brings a nutritious punch packed with fiber and vitamins, making it a guilt-free indulgence for any time you crave a refreshing, seasonal dish.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
2 tablespoons (preferably extra-virgin)
frozen cranberry juice concentrate
2 tablespoons (thawed)
white wine vinegar
1 tablespoon (none)
Belgian endive
3 heads (thinly sliced crosswise)
apples
2 (unpeeled, cored, chopped (Red Delicious or Fuji work best))
fresh cranberries
1/2 cup (chopped (could use dried))
green onion
1/4 cup (thinly sliced)
walnuts
1/4 cup (toasted, coarsely chopped)
Instructions
1
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, thawed cranberry juice concentrate, and white wine vinegar until well combined.
2
Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the flavor as desired.
3
In a medium bowl, combine the thinly sliced Belgian endive and the chopped apples, tossing gently to mix.
4
Drizzle the dressing over the endive and apple mixture, and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
5
Top the salad with the chopped fresh cranberries, thinly sliced green onions, and toasted walnuts.
6
Serve immediately, or chill for a short while to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Belgian Endive and Apple Salad?
It is a vibrant, festive salad featuring crisp Belgian endive, sweet apples, crunchy walnuts, and tart cranberries tossed in a homemade cranberry mustard vinaigrette.
What are the main ingredients in the vinaigrette?
The vinaigrette is made with olive oil, thawed frozen cranberry juice concentrate, white wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Which apples work best for this recipe?
Red Delicious or Fuji apples are recommended because their sweetness balances the slightly bitter endive.
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can substitute fresh cranberries with dried ones if fresh are unavailable.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, this salad is vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
How should I prepare the Belgian endive?
The endive should be thinly sliced crosswise into small pieces.
Do I need to peel the apples?
No, the recipe suggests using unpeeled apples for extra color and nutrition.
What type of vinegar should I use?
White wine vinegar is the preferred choice for this specific vinaigrette.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can chill the salad for a short while before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Is this salad healthy?
Yes, it is a nutritious dish packed with fiber and vitamins from the fresh fruit and vegetables.
What kind of oil is best for the dressing?
Extra-virgin olive oil is recommended for the best flavor.
Are the walnuts raw or toasted?
The walnuts should be toasted and coarsely chopped for the best texture and taste.
Can I substitute the walnuts with another nut?
Yes, you can use toasted pecans or almonds if you prefer.
What is the flavor profile of this salad?
It offers a balance of bitter, sweet, tart, and savory flavors.
Is this recipe easy to follow?
Yes, it is a simple 6-step process that involves basic whisking, chopping, and tossing.
Can I use bottled cranberry juice instead of concentrate?
The recipe calls for concentrate for a more intense flavor; however, you can use juice if you reduce the other liquids accordingly.
What type of onion is used?
Thinly sliced green onions are used to add a mild savory note.
Is this a side dish or a main?
It is typically served as a side dish, especially for holiday feasts.
How do I prevent the apples from browning?
Tossing the apples immediately with the acidic vinaigrette helps slow down the browning process.
Can I add cheese to this salad?
While the recipe is vegan, adding goat cheese or gorgonzola would pair very well with these ingredients.
How many ingredients are required?
This recipe requires 8 main ingredients.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free.
What makes the vinaigrette 'cranberry mustard' if there is no mustard in the list?
The recipe title mentions mustard, but the provided ingredient list focuses on the cranberry concentrate and vinegar; you may add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard if desired.
How do I toast the walnuts?
You can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes or in the oven at 350°F until fragrant.
Can I use a different type of endive?
While Belgian endive is specific for its shape and flavor, curly endive or escarole could be used as substitutes.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, though it is best served fresh.
Does the recipe require any special equipment?
No special equipment is needed other than a whisk and mixing bowls.
Can I add extra protein to make it a full meal?
Yes, adding grilled chicken or chickpeas would make this a more substantial meal.
Is the salad served warm or cold?
This salad is served cold or at room temperature.