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

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that brightens up chilly days, you’ve come to the right place! This winter salad – spinach, apple, gorgonzola, and candied walnuts is truly a gem. It combines fresh baby spinach with the sweetness of apples and the creamy tang of gorgonzola cheese, topped off with crunchy candied walnuts. It’s not just a salad; it’s a celebration of flavors that warms your heart.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s quick to prepare and offers a stunning presentation that will impress your guests. Trust me, once you try this winter salad, it will become a staple during those colder months!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this vibrant salad!
• Deliciously satisfying: The combination of creamy cheese and sweet apples creates an explosion of flavor.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves the crunch of candied walnuts and the savory taste of bacon or turkey strips.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a festive gathering, this salad fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! They are simple and wholesome, making this winter salad both delicious and nutritious. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 (or your preferred alternative)

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 recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Add more greens: Toss in some arugula or kale for extra nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: Swap gorgonzola for feta or goat cheese if you prefer something different.
• Add dried fruits: Include dried cranberries or raisins for an added sweetness.
• Make it vegetarian: Leave out the turkey strips altogether for a meat-free option.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Candied Walnuts

In a small pan, combine your walnut halves, sugar, chili flakes, paprika, a pinch of salt, and butter. Heat gently until the sugar dissolves and coats the walnuts. This step is crucial as it gives your salad that irresistible crunch and sweet flavor!

Step 2: Toast Your Turkey Strips

Next, grill your turkey strips under a hot grill until crispy on both sides. This not only adds texture but also enhances their flavor. Once done, drain them on kitchen paper to remove excess grease.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil and apple vinegar with salt and pepper. Whisk until well blended. Adding half of the gorgonzola here allows its creamy texture to infuse into the dressing—creating delicious pockets of flavor throughout your salad.

Step 4: Combine Spinach with Dressing

Toss your fresh spinach in the dressing until every leaf is coated evenly. This is where all that flavor starts coming together! Don’t be shy; get in there with your hands for an even mix.

Step 5: Assemble Your Salad

Divide the dressed spinach between serving bowls. Top each bowl equally with sliced apples, remaining gorgonzola, pomegranate arils, crispy turkey strips, and those fabulous candied walnuts. A final grind of pepper on top brings everything together beautifully!

Now serve immediately and enjoy each bite of this wonderful winter salad!

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

Creating a delightful winter salad is all about balancing flavors and textures, so here are some tips to help you shine in the kitchen!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach, crisp apples, and high-quality Gorgonzola make a world of difference in flavor. Fresh produce not only enhances the taste but also adds vibrant color to your dish.
• Let the dressing marinate: Allowing the dressing to sit for a few minutes after mixing gives the flavors time to blend. This small step intensifies the overall taste and ensures every bite is deliciously seasoned.
• Adjust sweetness to your liking: If you prefer a sweeter salad, feel free to add more sugar when candying the walnuts or toss in extra pomegranate arils. Tailoring the sweetness allows you to customize your salad based on personal preference.
• Experiment with toppings: While this recipe includes bacon or turkey strips, feel free to switch it up! Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even roasted beets can add unique flavors and textures that complement the other ingredients beautifully.
• Serve immediately for freshness: Salad is best enjoyed fresh. To keep your spinach from wilting, dress it just before serving for that perfect crunch!

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

This winter salad not only tastes amazing but also looks stunning on any table! Here are some ideas on how to present this colorful dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives sprinkled on top can add an aromatic touch that enhances the presentation and flavor.
• Additional cheese: Crumbled feta or a sprinkle of Parmesan can provide an extra layer of creaminess and elevate the dish’s appearance.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf mixed with seasonal vegetables offers a nutty flavor that pairs well with the richness of the salad.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These sweet morsels add warmth and a hint of caramelization that complements the salad’s freshness perfectly.
• Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread serves as great comfort food alongside this salad, making for a fulfilling meal.
• Creamy Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup provides a comforting contrast to the cold salad while enhancing the overall dining experience.

Enjoy crafting this beautiful winter salad at home! With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll impress everyone at your next dinner gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

This winter salad is not just a feast for the eyes but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can prepare components in advance, making it easy to assemble fresh servings throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad components separately to keep everything fresh.
• Place the dressed spinach, apples, and gorgonzola in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• Keep candied walnuts in a separate container at room temperature for optimal crunch.
• Consume leftovers within 2-3 days for the best taste and texture.

Freezing

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh and doesn’t freeze well due to the delicate nature of spinach and apples.
• If you have cooked turkey strips leftover, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• If you need to reheat any turkey strips, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
• Avoid reheating dressed spinach or apples, as they are best served fresh.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful winter salad!

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

Absolutely! You can substitute the bacon with roasted chickpeas or grilled vegetables for a vegetarian option that still packs plenty of flavor.

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

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, making it an excellent side dish for those heartier mains. It also stands alone as a light meal!

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

If properly stored in airtight containers, components of this salad will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. However, it’s best to eat it as soon as possible for optimal flavor.

Final Thoughts

This winter salad is truly special with its vibrant colors and delightful textures. Each bite brings together the earthiness of spinach, the sweetness of apples, creamy Gorgonzola, and crunchy candied walnuts that create a symphony of flavors. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to share your experience or any variations you’ve tried—happy cooking!