Are you ready to transform your ordinary salad into a gourmet masterpiece that will make your taste buds dance? Prepare to be amazed by the Apple Walnut Salad with Watercress - a culinary creation that perfectly balances crisp, peppery, and nutty flavors in one stunning dish. This isn't just a salad; it's a symphony of textures and tastes that will elevate your dining experience from mundane to magnificent, all in just 10 minutes of preparation!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups watercress
- 1 cup apples, sliced
- 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the watercress thoroughly under cold running water, then pat dry using clean paper towels or a salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
- Core and thinly slice the apples into uniform, half-moon shaped pieces. To prevent browning, you can lightly toss the apple slices with a small amount of lemon juice.
- Place walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast them for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn them. Remove from heat and let cool.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper to create the dressing. Ensure the ingredients are well combined.
- In a large salad bowl, gently arrange the watercress as the base layer. Top with the sliced apples in an even distribution.
- Sprinkle the toasted walnuts over the salad, followed by crumbling the feta cheese on top.
- Drizzle the prepared balsamic vinaigrette over the salad just before serving to maintain the crispness of the ingredients.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, crisp flavors of the Apple Walnut Salad with Watercress.
Tips
- Freshness is Key: Always use fresh, crisp watercress and firm apples for the best texture and flavor profile.
- Toasting Walnuts: Watch your nuts carefully while toasting - they can burn quickly! Remove from heat as soon as they become fragrant and golden.
- Prevent Apple Browning: A quick splash of lemon juice will keep your apple slices looking fresh and prevent oxidation.
- Dressing Technique: Add the vinaigrette just before serving to maintain the salad's crispness and prevent wilting.
- Cheese Tip: For the best flavor, use high-quality, creamy feta and crumble it just before serving.
- Customization: Feel free to swap feta with goat cheese or add grilled chicken for a more substantial meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
