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The Perfect Winter Salad

A delicious and hearty winter salad full of nuts, fruit and cheese that is perfect for a appetizer or add a bit of protein and make it a meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Salad
Servings 4 people

Ingredients
  

  • 6 cups Fresh Baby Spinach Leaves
  • 2 Crisp Apples I like using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp (thinly sliced)
  • 1/2 cup Gorgonzola Cheese Crumbles
  • 1/ cup Candied Walnuts roughly chopped

For The Dressing

  • 4 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 2 tsbp Balsamic Vinegar
  • 1/4 tsbp Honey
  • 2 tbsp Dijon Mustard
  • Salt and Pepper to taste

Instructions
 

**Prepare the Candied Walnuts:**

  • In a small skillet over medium heat, add the candied walnuts and toast them for about 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Remove from heat and let them cool.

**Make the Balsamic Vinaigrette:**

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

**Assemble the Salad:**

  • In a large salad bowl, combine the fresh spinach leaves, thinly sliced apples, crumbled Gorgonzola cheese, and the candied walnuts.

**Dress the Salad:**

  • Drizzle the prepared balsamic vinaigrette over the salad ingredients.

**Toss and Serve:**

  • Gently toss the salad to evenly coat all the ingredients with the vinaigrette.

**Serve:**

  • Divide the Winter Salad onto individual plates and serve immediately.

Notes

**Optional Additions:**
   - Feel free to customize your Winter Salad by adding grilled chicken or roasted turkey for some extra protein.
   - You can also sprinkle some dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds for a burst of sweetness and color.