Crisp, Sweet, and Savory: Dive Into This Delicious Amazing Apple Salad Recipe

If you’re looking for a salad that’s both refreshing and packed with flavor, the Amazing Apple Salad is just what you need. This delightful dish takes a mix of fresh greens, crunchy apple chips, and tender chicken, all tossed together with a tangy apple juice vinaigrette that highlights the natural sweetness of the apples. Inspired by the crisp, fresh flavors you’d find in a Panera Bread salad, this version takes it to the next level with crumbled Gorgonzola or blue cheese and toasted pecans for that perfect mix of sweet and savory.

Photo byNick Davies

Apples have long been a star ingredient in salads, providing not only sweetness but a delightful crunch. In this salad, they take on an even more exciting role with the addition of dried apple chips, which add both texture and a concentrated apple flavor. Paired with the creamy tang of Gorgonzola cheese, the bite of red onions, and the warmth of toasted pecans, this salad strikes a perfect balance.

What makes this Amazing Apple Salad stand out is its simplicity. It’s a wholesome, satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare but feels special enough for a gathering or a quick, fresh lunch. With tender chicken, juicy tomatoes, and crisp greens, it’s a salad that offers a little bit of everything. Plus, the apple juice vinaigrette adds a burst of fruity flavor that ties all the elements together.

Recipe: Amazing Apple Salad

Ingredients:

For the Dressing:

• 5 tablespoons apple juice concentrate
• ¼ cup white balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

For the Salad:

• 12 cups mixed greens (such as chopped romaine lettuce and spring greens)
• 12 ounces thinly sliced cooked chicken
• 2 tomatoes, cut into wedges
• 1 package (about 3 ounces) dried apple chips
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup crumbled Gorgonzola or blue cheese
• ½ cup pecans, toasted

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the apple juice concentrate, white balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, salt, onion powder, ginger, and minced garlic until well blended. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuing to whisk until the dressing is smooth and emulsified. Set aside.
2. Assemble the Salad: Divide the mixed greens among four serving bowls. Top each with thinly sliced cooked chicken, tomato wedges, dried apple chips, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled Gorgonzola or blue cheese, and toasted pecans.
3. Dress the Salad: Drizzle about 2 tablespoons of the apple juice vinaigrette over each salad just before serving. Toss gently to combine.

The Amazing Apple Salad is a perfect example of how simple, fresh ingredients can come together to create a dish that's not only delicious but also nourishing. The apple juice vinaigrette, with its fruity and tangy notes, pairs beautifully with the rich Gorgonzola, crunchy apple chips, and savory chicken. The toasted pecans add a warm nuttiness that rounds out the flavors, making every bite a delightful experience.

Whether you’re making this salad for a light lunch, a side dish at dinner, or even a festive fall gathering, it’s a versatile and crowd-pleasing option. Its mix of textures and flavors is sure to leave everyone wanting more, proving that sometimes the simplest combinations are the best.

Sources:

Family Recipe