Endive Salad with Apple and Blue Cheese
This Endive Salad with Apple and Blue Cheese is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, perfect for showcasing the crisp bitterness of fresh endive. The sweetness of apples, the creamy richness of blue cheese, and the crunch of pecans all come together with a honey mustard dressing to create a salad that’s both elegant and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- Fresh endive (2 heads), chopped – Adds a crisp, slightly bitter base.
- Apple (1 large), thinly sliced – Provides a sweet and juicy contrast.
- Blue cheese (1/4 cup), crumbled – Offers a creamy, tangy depth.
- Pecans (1/4 cup), toasted – Adds a crunchy, nutty texture.
- Honey mustard dressing (2 tablespoons) – Ties all the flavors together with sweetness and tang.
- Salt and pepper to taste – To enhance the overall flavor.
Instructions
- Prepare the Endive: Rinse the endive heads thoroughly, then chop them into bite-sized pieces. Place in a large salad bowl.
- Add the Apple: Thinly slice the apple and add the slices to the bowl with the endive.
- Sprinkle the Blue Cheese: Crumble the blue cheese over the salad.
- Add the Pecans: Toast the pecans lightly in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant. Allow them to cool slightly, then add to the salad.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the honey mustard dressing over the salad. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients.
- Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Serve immediately, either on individual plates or directly from the salad bowl.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per serving
- Protein: 6 grams
- Fat: 18 grams (includes healthy fats from pecans and blue cheese)
- Carbohydrates: 15 grams
- Fiber: 4 grams
- Vitamins: High in Vitamin K from endive, with additional calcium and antioxidants from the blue cheese and apples.
Variations and Tips
- Alternative Nuts: Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different texture and flavor.
- Cheese Options: Try using feta or goat cheese if you prefer a milder taste than blue cheese.
- Storage: This salad is best served fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble just before serving.
This Endive Salad with Apple and Blue Cheese is a perfect way to enjoy the fresh, crisp endive from your garden. The combination of sweet, tangy, and crunchy elements makes it a versatile dish that can be served as a starter or a light meal. Share your thoughts or variations in the comments, and be sure to check out our garden center for everything you need to grow fresh endive and more!
Download PDF's
Tags: