Ingredients and Weight:
- 2 cups mixed salad greens (such as romaine, spinach, and arugula)
- 1 cup diced fresh apples (use a variety like Honeycrisp or Gala)
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced (or use leftover grilled chicken)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries or cherries
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/4 cup olive oil for dressing
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes (including salad preparation and dressing preparation)
- Cooking Time: None (this is a raw food salad)
Difficulty Level:
Level 3 (Moderate difficulty due to the need for precise measurement of ingredients and mixing of the dressing)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Prepare the salad greens by washing and drying them thoroughly. Roughly chop or tear into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, diced apples, cooked chicken, dried cranberries or cherries, and chopped nuts.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately or chill for later.
Nutritional Information:
(Based on general calculations without specific nutritional values for each ingredient in their exact quantities)
* Calories: Approx. 350 per serving (depending on the ingredients used)
* Carbohydrates, Protein, Fat: See detailed nutritional chart for exact values.
Dish Characteristics:
- Bright and colorful with a combination of fresh and dried fruits, providing a sweet and savory contrast.
- The dressing is a balance of acidity from the vinegar and richness from the olive oil, creating a flavorful coating for the salad.
- A perfect dish for fall as it incorporates seasonal flavors and ingredients.
User Comments:
- "Love the combination of flavors in this salad! The dressing is excellent." - John Doe
- "This salad is a great blend of sweet and savory with a crunchy texture from the mixed greens and fruits." - Jane Smith
- "Great dish for a light meal or as a side salad. Highly recommended!" - Michael Johnson
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Use fresh ingredients for best results. If possible, buy organic to ensure higher quality and fewer pesticides.
- Adjust the amount of dressing according to your preference for a more or less dressed salad.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken or use vegetarian-friendly alternatives like tofu or beans.
