Fruit And Nut Salad Recipe

Prepare components

Wash and thoroughly dry the mixed salad greens. Core the apple and thinly slice into half-moons; if using for presentation, toss the slices in a small bowl with a pinch of lemon juice to prevent browning. If your pumpkin seeds are not toasted, toast them now: heat a small skillet over medium heat, add the pumpkin seeds and toast, stirring, for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and just beginning to brown. Remove from heat and cool.

Place the dried cranberries and toasted pumpkin seeds in a small bowl and set aside. Drain or blot the pickled red onion to remove excess liquid. Crumble the gorgonzola and keep ready.

In a large salad bowl, combine the salad greens and sliced apple. Add the dried cranberries and about half of the toasted pumpkin seeds. Gently toss to combine.

Season the tossed greens lightly with about 1/2 teaspoon coarse kosher salt and 1/4–1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, keeping in mind the saltiness of the gorgonzola and pickled onions.

Just before serving, drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad (start with about 3–4 tablespoons and add more to taste) and toss gently to coat. Arrange on plates or a serving platter, then scatter the pickled red onions, remaining pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries (if any left), and crumbled gorgonzola over the top. Adjust seasoning and serve immediately.

In a small bowl or jar combine the apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), minced shallot, and the grated apple (if using). Whisk together until the mustard and honey are incorporated.

While whisking constantly, slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil to create an emulsion. If using a jar, add the oil, close the lid, and shake vigorously until combined and slightly thickened.

Season the dressing with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, taste, and adjust sweetness, acidity, or salt as desired. If the dressing is too acidic, add a small pinch more honey or a teaspoon of olive oil. Refrigerate any unused dressing for up to 5 days; shake or whisk before using.