A winter salad – spinach, apple, gorgonzola and candied walnuts

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that brightens up the winter table, then this A winter salad – spinach, apple, gorgonzola and candied walnuts is just what you need! This recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it combines vibrant flavors and textures in every bite. The crunch of candied walnuts, the creaminess of Gorgonzola, and the crispness of fresh apples make it a delightful treat. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need something quick for a weeknight dinner, this salad is perfect for any occasion.

The best part? It comes together in just 20 minutes! You can easily prepare it ahead of time and impress your guests or simply enjoy it as a healthy meal. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this winter salad!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip this salad up in no time!
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet apples, tangy Gorgonzola, and crunchy walnuts creates an unforgettable taste.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or a side dish – it fits perfectly into any meal plan.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the components in advance and toss them together right before serving for maximum freshness.
• Healthy Goodness: Packed with nutrients from spinach and fruits, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s keep things simple with some wholesome ingredients. You might already have many of these staples at home!

For the Salad

• 7 oz (200g) spinach
• 1 red delicious apple (thinly sliced)
• 4.5 oz (130g) gorgonzola (at room temperature)
• 1/2 pomegranate (arils removed)
• 5.2 oz (150g) turkey strips (2 slices per person)

For the Dressing

• 5 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp apple vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Candied Walnuts

• 1 cup (80g) walnut halves
• 3 tbsp sugar
• 1/4 tsp chili flakes (red pepper flakes)
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• 1 oz (30g) butter

Variations

This salad is wonderfully adaptable! Feel free to switch things up based on what you have or your personal preferences.

• Swap the cheese: If Gorgonzola isn’t your favorite, try feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Add more greens: Mix in some arugula or kale for added texture and nutrition.
• Change the fruit: Pears or dried cranberries can add a lovely sweetness in place of apples.
• Make it vegan: Omit the turkey strips and cheese, and use maple syrup instead of sugar for candied nuts.

How to Make A winter salad – spinach, apple, gorgonzola and candied walnuts

Step 1: Prepare the Candied Walnuts

Start by adding the walnut halves, sugar, chili flakes, paprika, a pinch of salt, and butter into a small pan over low heat. Stir until the sugar melts together with butter to coat the walnuts evenly. Keep an eye on them so that nothing burns; we want them perfectly sweetened without bitterness.

Step 2: Set Aside the Walnuts

Once coated, quickly transfer the walnuts onto a sheet of baking paper. Use your spatula to separate them gently so they don’t stick together as they cool down. Set them aside while you prepare the rest of the salad.

Step 3: Cook the Turkey Strips

Next, grill your turkey strips under high heat until they’re crispy on each side. This step adds a savory crunch that balances out all those sweet elements. Once done, let them drain on kitchen paper to remove excess grease.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil and apple vinegar with a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until well mixed! Then take half of your Gorgonzola cheese and mash it into the dressing using a fork—this will give your dressing that delicious creamy texture.

Step 5: Toss in Spinach

Now it’s time to add your fresh spinach! Toss it gently in that beautiful dressing until each leaf is coated nicely. This not only enhances flavor but also brightens up your greens.

Step 6: Assemble Your Salad

Divide your dressed spinach into serving bowls. Top each bowl with slices of apple, remaining Gorgonzola, pomegranate arils, crispy turkey pieces, and those lovely candied walnuts we made earlier! Finish off with a grind of fresh pepper right before serving for an extra pop.

Enjoy this delightful A winter salad – spinach, apple, gorgonzola and candied walnuts as part of your next meal!

Pro Tips for Making A winter salad – spinach, apple, gorgonzola and candied walnuts

Creating a delicious winter salad is easier than you think! Here are some tips to elevate your dish and impress everyone at the table.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and crisp apples make all the difference in flavor and texture. Opting for seasonal produce ensures that your salad is vibrant and full of nutrients.
• Balance flavors: To achieve a harmonious taste, balance the sweetness of the candied walnuts with the tanginess of Gorgonzola. This contrast will keep each bite interesting and satisfying.
• Customize your toppings: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand. For example, substitute pecans for walnuts or feta cheese for Gorgonzola if you prefer something different!
• Make it ahead: You can prepare components like the candied walnuts or dressing in advance. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Serve immediately: For the best experience, serve your salad right after tossing it with dressing. This keeps the spinach crisp and prevents any sogginess.

How to Serve A winter salad – spinach, apple, gorgonzola and candied walnuts

This salad is not only delicious but also visually stunning! Presenting it beautifully can enhance its appeal even further.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Cracked pepper: Adding a light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper right before serving gives an aromatic kick that enhances every bite.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread pairs perfectly with this salad, allowing guests to enjoy a delightful crunch alongside their greens.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as carrots or Brussels sprouts add warmth and depth to your meal, making it more hearty.
• Quinoa: A side of fluffy quinoa brings extra protein to the table while its nutty flavor complements the salad.
• Soup: A light broth-based soup such as minestrone or tomato complements this winter salad wonderfully, offering warmth on chilly days.

Enjoy crafting this flavorful winter salad for yourself or sharing it with loved ones! It’s perfect for those cozy evenings when you want something nutritious yet indulgent.

Make Ahead and Storage

This winter salad is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious and nutritious dish throughout the week. Preparing it in advance can save time while still delivering fresh flavors.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy the salad within 2 days for the best taste and freshness.
• Keep the dressing separate from the salad until you’re ready to eat to prevent wilting.

Freezing

• Unfortunately, this salad isn’t suitable for freezing due to the fresh ingredients like spinach and apple.
• Instead, consider preparing the candied walnuts or dressing ahead of time for later use.

Reheating

• This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat.
• If you prefer warm ingredients, such as bacon or turkey strips, you can briefly heat them in a microwave before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come up while making this delightful dish.

Can I make A winter salad – spinach, apple, gorgonzola and candied walnuts without nuts?

Absolutely! You can omit the walnuts or substitute them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a different crunch.

How long does A winter salad – spinach, apple, gorgonzola and candied walnuts last in the fridge?

The salad will stay fresh for about 2 days when stored properly in an airtight container. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

Can I use a different cheese instead of gorgonzola?

Yes! You can replace gorgonzola with feta or goat cheese if you prefer a milder flavor while maintaining that creamy texture.

What can I serve with A winter salad – spinach, apple, gorgonzola and candied walnuts?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or even as a side dish alongside your favorite protein for a balanced meal.

Is it possible to make this salad vegan?

To make it vegan, simply skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative and replace honey with maple syrup in the dressing if desired!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this winter salad filled with vibrant colors and delightful flavors. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of seasonal ingredients that brings warmth during chilly days. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your experiences or variations! Happy cooking!