Roasted Apple Salad with Caramelized Shallot Vinaigrette

Roasted Apple Salad with Caramelized Shallot Vinaigrette is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that makes it perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual dinners. This salad features a sweet and salty mix of arugula, spring greens, roasted apples, and crispy Turkey Bacon, all drizzled with a rich caramelized shallot vinaigrette. It’s an outstanding choice for those looking to enjoy a seasonal dish that is both satisfying and nutritious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of sweet roasted apples and savory Turkey Bacon creates a mouthwatering taste experience.
• Seasonal Ingredient Focus: Utilizing fresh gala apples makes this salad ideal for fall and autumn gatherings.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this salad in no time, making it suitable for weeknight meals or special occasions.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main dish or a side; it pairs beautifully with various proteins like chicken or fish.
• Nutritious Components: Packed with greens, fruits, nuts, and healthy fats from the vinaigrette, this salad is as good for your health as it is for your taste buds.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the Roasted Apple Salad with Caramelized Shallot Vinaigrette effectively, having the right tools is essential. These tools will help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sheet pan
• Skillet (12”)
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Sheet pan: Perfect for roasting the apples and cooking the Turkey Bacon evenly.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing shallots and toasting pecans to enhance their flavors.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: A must-have for emulsifying the vinaigrette smoothly.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 12 oz raw, sliced Turkey Bacon
• 1 ¼ lbs gala apples, thinly sliced
• 1 cup pecans
• kosher salt
• olive oil
• 2 shallots, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• ¼ cup + 2 tbsp olive oil
• freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 (5 oz) container mixed greens
• 2 large handfuls arugula
• 6 oz blue cheese (1 sm wedge), crumbled
• ¾ cup raisins

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Roasted Apple Salad with Caramelized Shallot Vinaigrette

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Lay the Turkey Bacon out onto a sheet pan. Bake for about 25 minutes or until crisp. Transfer the Turkey Bacon to a plate lined with paper towels and set aside. Pour 1 tablespoon of the hot Turkey Bacon fat into a 12” skillet. Leave the remaining on the sheet pan.

Step 2: Roast the Apples

Increase the oven temperature to 425°F. Add the sliced apples to the sheet pan, spreading them in an even layer. Roast the apples for 10 minutes. Flip them over and roast for another 5 minutes or until golden brown. Set aside.

Step 3: Toast the Pecans

Meanwhile, heat the skillet with Turkey Bacon fat over medium heat. Add the pecans and toast until golden and fragrant. Season with a pinch of salt. Spoon out onto a plate lined with paper towels.

Step 4: Make the Vinaigrette

Add a drizzle of olive oil along with shallots and a pinch of salt to the skillet. Sauté for a few minutes until caramelized and softened. Stir in maple syrup and apple cider vinegar; let simmer for about 30 seconds. Transfer this mixture to a mixing bowl to cool slightly before slowly whisking in ¼ cup olive oil until emulsified. Season well with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.

Step 5: Assemble Your Salad

In a large mixing bowl, add mixed greens and arugula. Toss in roasted apples, toasted pecans, roughly chopped Turkey Bacon, blue cheese crumbles, and raisins. Pour in your homemade vinaigrette and gently toss everything together until well combined.

Step 6: Final Touches

Taste your salad! Adjust seasoning with more salt or freshly cracked black pepper if desired. Serve immediately while fresh!

How to Serve Roasted Apple Salad with Caramelized Shallot Vinaigrette

This Roasted Apple Salad with Caramelized Shallot Vinaigrette is versatile and perfect for various occasions. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, consider these serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

For a Light Lunch

• Pair with whole grain bread for a satisfying yet light meal.
• Add a scoop of quinoa on the side for extra protein and fiber.

As a Dinner Side Dish

• Serve alongside grilled chicken to complement the sweet and savory flavors.
• Pair with roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious plate.

At a Potluck

• Present in a large serving bowl for easy sharing.
• Garnish with extra blue cheese crumbles to entice guests.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Offer as part of a brunch buffet alongside eggs or pastries.
• Include sparkling water or mimosas for a refreshing drink option.

How to Perfect Roasted Apple Salad with Caramelized Shallot Vinaigrette

To make your Roasted Apple Salad even more delightful, follow these tips for perfection.

• Choose fresh apples: Select crisp, flavorful gala apples for the best taste.
• Adjust vinaigrette sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the maple syrup in the vinaigrette.
• Add crunch: Incorporate toasted walnuts or almonds for an extra texture contrast.
• Experiment with greens: Try using kale or spinach along with arugula for variety in flavor and nutrition.
• Make it ahead: Prepare the vinaigrette and roast the apples in advance to save time when serving.
• Serve chilled: Allow the salad to sit briefly after tossing so flavors meld together nicely.

Best Side Dishes for Roasted Apple Salad with Caramelized Shallot Vinaigrette

This salad pairs well with several delicious side dishes that enhance its flavors. Consider these options when planning your meal.

1. Grilled Chicken Breast – A simple yet flavorful protein that complements the salad’s sweetness.
2. Honey Balsamic Glazed Carrots – These tender carrots add their own sweet touch while contrasting nicely with the salad’s ingredients.
3. Quinoa Pilaf – A nutty grain dish that brings additional texture and heartiness to your table.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crisp-tender sprouts seasoned simply can balance the richness of blue cheese in the salad.
5. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes provide comfort alongside the fresh flavors of the salad.
6. Stuffed Acorn Squash – This autumn-inspired dish adds warmth and complements seasonal flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Roasted Apple Salad with Caramelized Shallot Vinaigrette, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your dish’s flavor and presentation.

• Skipping the Bacon Fat: Not using the rendered Turkey Bacon fat for toasting pecans can lead to a less flavorful salad. This fat adds richness that complements the other ingredients.
• Overcooking the Apples: Roasting apples for too long can turn them mushy. Monitor closely and remove them when they are just golden for optimal texture.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to season each component, especially the vinaigrette, can result in a bland salad. Make sure to taste and adjust seasoning throughout the process.
• Using Low-Quality Cheese: Opting for a lesser-quality blue cheese may dull the overall taste of the salad. Choose a well-aged blue cheese for a more pronounced flavor.
• Chilling Ingredients: Using cold ingredients can prevent proper melding of flavors. Allow all components, especially the vinaigrette, to come to room temperature before mixing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The Roasted Apple Salad will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep dressing separate if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing Roasted Apple Salad with Caramelized Shallot Vinaigrette

• Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in apples and greens.
• If necessary, store only the cooked elements (like turkey bacon and pecans) for up to 2 months.

Reheating Roasted Apple Salad with Caramelized Shallot Vinaigrette

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread salad components on a baking sheet and heat until warmed through, about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container and heat in 30-second intervals until warm, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, gently warm the salad while stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of apples for this salad?

Yes! While gala apples are sweet and tender, you could also try Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for a tart twist.

How can I customize the Roasted Apple Salad with Caramelized Shallot Vinaigrette?

You can add nuts like walnuts or almonds, swap out greens for spinach, or even include dried cranberries for extra flavor.

Is it possible to make this salad vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace Turkey Bacon with crispy tofu or omit it entirely. The salad remains delightful without meat.

What are some good pairings with this salad?

This autumn salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish, making it perfect as a light meal or side dish for any gathering.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

You can prep most components ahead. However, it’s best to mix everything together shortly before serving to keep greens crisp and vibrant.

Final Thoughts

The Roasted Apple Salad with Caramelized Shallot Vinaigrette is not just delicious; it’s also versatile enough for any occasion. With its balance of sweet and savory flavors and customizable ingredients, you can easily tailor it to suit your tastes. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make this recipe your own!

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Roasted Apple Salad with Caramelized Shallot Vinaigrette

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Roasted Apple Salad with Caramelized Shallot Vinaigrette is a delightful dish that captures the essence of autumn in every bite. This vibrant salad combines sweet roasted gala apples, crispy Turkey Bacon, and a medley of fresh greens, all brought together by a rich caramelized shallot vinaigrette.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz raw sliced Turkey Bacon
• 1 ¼ lbs thinly sliced gala apples
• 1 cup pecans
• 2 shallots, thinly sliced
• 5 oz mixed greens
• Fresh arugula
• 6 oz crumbled blue cheese
• Maple syrup
• Apple cider vinegar

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Bake Turkey Bacon on a sheet pan for about 25 minutes until crisp; set aside.
2. Raise oven temperature to 425°F. Roast sliced apples on the same sheet pan for 15 minutes until golden brown; set aside.
3. In a skillet with Turkey Bacon fat, toast pecans over medium heat until fragrant; set aside.
4. Sauté shallots in olive oil until caramelized. Stir in maple syrup and apple cider vinegar; simmer briefly.
5. In a bowl, combine mixed greens and arugula with roasted apples, pecans, Turkey Bacon, blue cheese, and raisins. Drizzle with vinaigrette and toss gently.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 340
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 30mg