Monday, June 30, 2025

Apple (or Pear) and Gorgonzola Salad with Glazed Walnuts

 

Salad Ingredients:

- 8 oz. bag of mixed greens

- 2 Fuji apples or 2 pears

- 1 cup glazed walnuts

- 3/4 cup (6 oz) Gorgonzola cheese


Balsamic Dressing Ingredients:

- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

- Kosher salt to taste

- Fresh ground pepper to taste

Directions:

In a small bowl, whisk all the dressing ingredients together.  Taste for seasoning for salt and pepper.  Transfer the dressing to a resealable container and store for up to one week in your refrigerator.

In a large bowl, add all of the salad ingredients.  Add the dressing to taste.  

DIY Glazed Walnuts:  In a large pan, heat 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1/2 cup brown sugar over medium heat, until the butter and the sugar melt.  Add 2 cups of walnuts and toss with the brown sugar mixture until well coated, 4-5 minutes.  When the walnuts are well coated, spread the walnuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to cool.  Once the walnuts are cool, store them in an resealable container in your refrigerator for up to one week.

Cook's Notes:

I found this recipe in a salad book I purchased for 99 cents.  The results of this salad were amazing.  I prefer apples to pears, but adjust the fruit used to the taste of your guests.  I will definitely make this salad again soon!