Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 oz. speck, thinly sliced
- 2 apples, thinly sliced
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special Equipment Needed:
- None
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced apples, and chopped walnuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Arrange the speck slices on top of the salad.
5. Sprinkle crumbled blue cheese on top of the salad.
6. Serve immediately.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: None
Temperature:
- Room temperature
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Protein: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Substitute prosciutto or bacon for speck.
- Substitute pears or grapes for apples.
- Substitute pecans or almonds for walnuts.
- Substitute feta or goat cheese for blue cheese.
Variations:
- Add sliced red onion or dried cranberries to the salad.
- Use a different type of vinegar, such as balsamic or red wine vinegar, in the dressing.
- Add a teaspoon of honey to the dressing for a touch of sweetness.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to slice the speck and apples thinly for optimal texture and flavor.
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet for a few minutes before adding them to the salad for extra crunch.
- Use a mandoline slicer to slice the apples and speck evenly.
Storage Instructions:
- Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- None
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the salad on a large platter or individual plates.
- Arrange the speck slices in a fan shape on top of the salad for an elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
- None
Pairings:
- Serve with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Serve with a crusty baguette or garlic bread.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dressing is too tart, add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to wash the mixed greens and apples thoroughly before using them in the salad.
Food History:
- Speck is a type of cured meat that originated in the South Tyrol region of Italy.
Flavor Profiles:
- The salad has a balance of sweet and savory flavors, with the sweetness of the apples and dressing complementing the salty speck and tangy blue cheese.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a light lunch or as a side dish for dinner.
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