“Everyone needs a go-to that’s both gorgeous and delicious, and my Mary’s Most Requested Salad hits all the marks. Imagine a vibrant medley of creamy Gorgonzola cheese dancing with tart apples, sweet cherries, crunchy pecans, and crispy bacon, all kissed by a silky balsamic dressing. Not only is this salad a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also quick to whip up—perfect for last-minute gatherings or a delightful lunch at home. It’s an adaptable recipe, so feel free to swap out ingredients as you see fit. Are you ready to elevate your salad game with a dish that’s sure to steal the show?”
Why is this salad a must-try?
Bold flavors: The combination of creamy Gorgonzola and crispy bacon adds a savory punch.
Sweet meets savory: Tart apples and sweet cherries create a perfect balance of flavors.
Crisp texture: The crunch of pecans combined with fresh greens is simply irresistible.
Quick to prepare: You can whip this salad up in under 15 minutes, making it a time-saver for any occasion.
Versatile dish: Easily adapt this recipe by trying different nuts or fruits, like in my Cucumber Salad Bacon or Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this salad is sure to impress everyone at your table!
Mary’s Most Requested Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
• Spring Salad Mix – Provides a fresh and crisp base that’s essential for this delightful salad.
• Romaine Lettuce – Adds an extra crunch while staying mild in flavor, complementing other ingredients.
• Bacon – Offers a savory, smoky richness; use pre-packaged for convenience or cook your own for added flavor.
• Dried Cherries or Cranberries – Adds a touch of sweetness; cranberries can be a delightful, tart alternative.
• Granny Smith Apple – Brings a tart balance; feel free to swap with any firm apple variety for a different taste.
• Toasted Pecans or Almonds – Infuses a nutty crunch; almonds can be a perfect substitute if you prefer.
• Gorgonzola or Blue Cheese – Creaminess that ties all flavors together; goat cheese or feta can work beautifully as alternatives.
For the Dressing
• Vegetable Oil or Canola Oil – Serves as the base for your dressing; olive oil adds a more robust flavor if desired.
• Sugar – Sweetens the dressing; adjust according to your taste preference.
• Good Quality Balsamic Vinegar – Vital for adding depth and acidity to the dressing for a well-rounded flavor.
• Dry Mustard – Provides a tanginess; feel free to substitute with Dijon mustard if you prefer that flavor profile.
• Fresh Cracked Pepper – Adds seasoning to taste, enhancing the overall harmony of the dish.
Elevate your Mary’s Most Requested Salad with these fresh ingredients that ensure each bite is a crunchy, sweet delight!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mary’s Most Requested Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Salad Base
Start by washing your spring salad mix and romaine lettuce thoroughly under cool water to remove any dirt or debris. In a large mixing bowl, combine the greens until they are well blended. This crisp base will set the stage for the scrumptious flavors of Mary’s Most Requested Salad.
Step 2: Cook and Crumble the Bacon
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon strips until they’re crispy, usually around 6-8 minutes. As the bacon cooks, it will emit a delightful savory smell! Once crispy, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Once cool, crumble the bacon into bite-sized pieces and add it to your lettuce mixture.
Step 3: Add Dried Fruits and Nuts
Next, toss in the dried cherries or cranberries, which will add a burst of sweetness that beautifully complements the other ingredients. Then, chop your Granny Smith apple into small pieces and add it to the bowl. Finally, sprinkle in the toasted pecans, stirring everything together gently to combine the vibrant flavors of Mary’s Most Requested Salad.
Step 4: Crumble Gorgonzola Cheese
Take your Gorgonzola cheese and crumble it over the salad mixture, allowing the creaminess to distribute throughout the dish. Use about a cup to ensure every bite has that signature flavor. Gently fold the salad to incorporate the cheese without crushing the delicate greens or fruit components, making a visually pleasing mix.
Step 5: Whisk the Dressing Together
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together one-third cup of vegetable oil, two tablespoons of sugar, a splash of good-quality balsamic vinegar, a teaspoon of dry mustard, and freshly cracked pepper to taste. Blend these ingredients until you have a smooth dressing that glistens — this sweet balsamic dressing ties all elements of Mary’s Most Requested Salad together.
Step 6: Dress the Salad
To finish, drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture gradually, using a spoon to blend it in. This allows you to control how much dressing coats your salad, ensuring each ingredient maintains its integrity. Aim for a light coating that enhances the flavors without overwhelming the fresh ingredients in Mary’s Most Requested Salad.
Make Ahead Options
Mary’s Most Requested Salad is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the salad base (the greens, bacon, and nuts) up to 24 hours ahead of serving. To keep the ingredients fresh, store the lettuce mixture in an airtight container, and refrigerate the crumbled bacon separately. Slice the Granny Smith apple just before serving to prevent browning and maintain its crispness. The dried fruits and Gorgonzola cheese can be added right before dressing the salad, ensuring every bite tastes just as delicious as fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy this crowd-pleaser, simply toss everything together and drizzle your homemade dressing for an effortless and vibrant dish that saves time on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Mary’s Most Requested Salad
Elevate your meal with delightful pairings that accentuate the fresh flavors of this stunning salad.
-
Grilled Chicken: Juicy, seasoned chicken adds a hearty touch, complementing the salad’s crunch and creaminess. It makes your meal feel complete and satisfying.
-
Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa mixed with sautéed vegetables enhances the nutrition and provides a warm contrast to your refreshing salad.
-
Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy garlic bread not only satisfies but also pairs beautifully with the sweetness and savory elements in the salad.
-
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring added depth and a hint of sweetness, aligning perfectly with the flavors of the other ingredients.
-
Fruit-Infused Sparkling Water: Refreshing and lightly flavored, this drink cleanses the palate, allowing every bite of the salad to shine.
-
Chocolate Fondue: For dessert, a rich, creamy chocolate fondue provides a sweet and decadent finish, making it a great contrast after the savory-sweet salad.
-
Cheese Board: An assortment of cheeses, fruits, and nuts offers variety, keeping the savory and sweet theme alive while guests can nibble as they enjoy their meal.
-
Sautéed Greens: Lightly seasoned greens, such as spinach or kale, can enhance the meal’s nutrition and provide more texture to enjoy with your salad.
-
Homemade Apple Pie: A beloved classic, apple pie resonates with the warm flavors from your salad, making it a comforting way to end your meal.
Expert Tips for Mary’s Most Requested Salad
-
Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest greens and fruits you can find. Their vibrant colors and flavors elevate Mary’s Most Requested Salad to another level.
-
Crispy Bacon Magic: Let the bacon cool on a paper towel before crumbling. This keeps it crispy and prevents sogginess in your salad.
-
Texture Balance: For the best experience, ensure a balance of textures; pairing crunchy nuts with chewy cherries and creamy cheese is key to success.
-
Dressing Control: Drizzle the dressing gradually over the salad. This helps avoid overdressing, ensuring every bite of Mary’s Most Requested Salad is just right.
-
Prep Ahead: You can pre-chop the fruits and veggies, but wait to add the dressing right before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
-
Experiment Freely: Don’t hesitate to swap ingredients! Using different nuts or fruits allows you to create your own signature version of Mary’s Most Requested Salad.
Mary’s Most Requested Salad Variations
Feel free to unleash your culinary creativity and make this delightful salad your own!
- Dried Fruit Swap: Substitute dried cherries with dried apricots or figs for a unique flavor twist that’s both sweet and chewy.
- Grilled Chicken Option: Add grilled chicken on top for a heartier meal that’s packed with protein. It makes this salad perfect as a standalone dish.
- Nutty Alternatives: Experiment with different nuts like walnuts or cashews, each offering a distinct crunch and flavor profile. This can create delightful variations in texture.
- Fresh Herb Infusion: Toss in some fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to introduce a vibrant pop of flavor that pairs beautifully with the salad’s richness.
- Cheese Variety: Instead of Gorgonzola, try goat cheese or feta for a creamier or tangier note that still complements the other ingredients beautifully.
- Apple Variation: Use different apple types, such as Honeycrisp or Fuji, to switch up the sweetness and crispness of your salad.
- Spiced Dressing: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a touch of heat that elevates the overall taste experience. It’s a great way to surprise your taste buds!
- Dress as You Go: Instead of mixing the dressing with the salad, serve it on the side. This keeps the greens crisper and lets guests customize their salad experience!.
For inspirations on other delicious salad options, don’t miss my Cucumber Salad Bacon or Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad. Each offers different textures and flavors to satisfy any craving!
How to Store and Freeze Mary’s Most Requested Salad
Fridge: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep the greens crisp, dress individual servings just before enjoying.
Dressings: Keep the sweet balsamic dressing stored separately in the fridge for about a week. Give it a good shake before using to re-emulsify the ingredients.
Freezer: It is not recommended to freeze Mary’s Most Requested Salad since the lettuce and fruits may become soggy upon thawing, impacting their delightful texture.
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat this salad; it’s meant to be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, maintaining the freshness of the ingredients.
Mary’s Most Requested Salad Recipe FAQs
Can I use any type of apple in this salad?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples offer a nice tartness that beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the cherries, you can substitute them with any firm apple variety you prefer, such as Honeycrisp or Fuji. These will impart their unique flavors, making the salad just as delightful.
How should I store leftovers from Mary’s Most Requested Salad?
For the best results, store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the crispness of the greens and prevent wilting, make sure to dress individual servings just before you enjoy them.
Can I freeze this salad?
I would not recommend freezing Mary’s Most Requested Salad. Freezing tends to cause the lettuce and fresh fruits to become soggy once thawed, compromising the refreshing texture that makes this salad special. Instead, I suggest enjoying it fresh!
What could I substitute if I have allergies to nuts or dairy?
If you’re avoiding nuts, feel free to skip the pecans or substitute with crispy chickpeas for a similar crunch. For those with dairy issues, crumbled goat cheese or a dairy-free feta can be great alternatives to Gorgonzola, keeping the flavors rich and satisfying without the dairy.
How do I ensure my bacon stays crispy in the salad?
To keep your bacon crispy, let it cool on a paper towel-lined plate after cooking. Crumbling the bacon just before adding it to the salad ensures it retains its texture, enhancing the overall experience of Mary’s Most Requested Salad.
Mary’s Most Requested Salad: A Crunchy, Sweet Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Wash the spring salad mix and romaine lettuce thoroughly. Combine the greens in a large mixing bowl.
- Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat for 6-8 minutes until crispy. Crumble the bacon and add to the lettuce mixture.
- Add dried cherries or cranberries and chopped Granny Smith apple to the bowl. Sprinkle in the toasted pecans.
- Crumble Gorgonzola cheese over the salad, folding gently to combine.
- Whisk together vegetable oil, sugar, balsamic vinegar, dry mustard, and cracked pepper in a small bowl.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad, mixing gently to coat without overpowering the fresh ingredients.
Leave a Reply