Description
This Heirloom Apple Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish combining crisp heirloom apples, celery, and baby greens, all tossed in a creamy rosemary-garlic dressing with toasted nuts for added crunch and flavor. Perfect as a light lunch or side salad, it balances sweet, tangy, and savory notes with a delightful texture contrast.
Ingredients
Dressing
- 1/4 teaspoon fine grain sea salt
- 12 rosemary leaves, minced
- 1 medium garlic clove, peeled
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) crème fraîche (or sour cream)
- 2 1/2 teaspoons white wine vinegar
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Salad
- 3 large celery stalks, sliced thinly
- 2 crisp heirloom apples, cut into sixths, then thinly sliced
- 4 handfuls arugula, baby gem lettuce, or baby romaine
- 1/3 cup toasted nuts (hazelnuts, walnuts, almonds, or pine nuts)
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: Crush the sea salt, minced rosemary leaves, peeled garlic clove, and sugar together using a mortar and pestle or finely mince and smash with a knife until a paste forms. Gradually work in the crème fraîche and white wine vinegar until fully combined. Season with freshly ground black pepper and adjust salt as needed to taste.
- Assemble the salad: Just before serving, combine the thinly sliced celery, thinly sliced heirloom apples, and your choice of baby greens (arugula, baby gem, or baby romaine) in a large bowl. Add most of the toasted nuts and half of the dressing.
- Toss and dress: Toss the salad gently to evenly coat all ingredients with the dressing. Add more dressing gradually until it reaches your desired flavor and consistency.
- Finish and serve: Sprinkle the remaining toasted nuts and any torn celery leaves over the top for garnish and extra texture. Serve immediately to enjoy the salad’s fresh flavors and crisp textures.
Notes
- You can substitute crème fraîche with sour cream if preferred.
- For extra flavor, shave thin strips of hard, aged cheese like Parmesan over the salad before serving.
- Use a variety of toasted nuts according to your preference or availability.
- Serve immediately to maintain the crispness of the apples and celery.
- This salad pairs well with grilled meats or as a refreshing side for lighter meals.
