Harvest Moon Maple Salad
Ingredients:
6 cups mixed greens (spring mix or baby spinach)
1 large Honeycrisp apple, thinly sliced
1/2 cup shredded sharp white cheddar or cubed aged cheddar
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup candied pecans or toasted almonds
3 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
Optional: thinly sliced red onion
Maple-Dijon Dressing:
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt & pepper to taste
Directions:
Whisk dressing ingredients in a small bowl or jar.
In a large bowl, layer greens, apple, cheese, cranberries, nuts, and bacon.
Toss gently with dressing just before serving.
Notes:
Ingredient Notes:
Mixed greens – A spring mix or baby spinach keeps things light and crisp. Arugula also works if you like a peppery bite.
Honeycrisp apple – Their natural sweetness and crunch are perfect, but Gala or Fuji apples make great swaps.
Cheddar cheese – Sharp white cheddar balances the sweetness. Cubes of aged cheddar give extra richness.
Dried cranberries – Adds a chewy, tart contrast. Dried cherries or golden raisins are good alternatives.
Candied pecans – Bring crunch and sweetness. Toasted almonds or walnuts work if you want less sweetness.
Bacon – A salty, smoky layer that ties it all together. Turkey bacon works as a lighter swap.
Red onion – Totally optional, but it adds a little zing if you like sharp flavors.
Maple-Dijon dressing- The maple syrup makes it fall-ready while Dijon and apple cider vinegar balance things out. Olive oil smooths it all together.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but keep the dressing separate until right before serving so the greens stay crisp. Slice the apple just before tossing to prevent browning.
Before You Make:
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but keep the dressing separate until right before serving so the greens stay crisp. Slice the apple just before tossing to prevent browning.
What’s the best apple to use?
Honeycrisp apples are ideal for crunch and sweetness, but Gala, Fuji, or Pink Lady work just as well.
Can I use bottled dressing instead?
Absolutely. A store-bought maple vinaigrette or honey Dijon dressing will save time, though homemade has the freshest flavor.
Recipe courtesy of Life and Sprinkles.com