CARAMELIZED APPLE PECAN CRISPY BACON SALAD WITH CIDER MAPLE DRIZZLE

CARAMELIZED APPLE, PECAN & CRISPY BACON SALAD WITH CIDER MAPLE DRIZZLE

by

CARAMELIZED APPLE, PECAN & CRISPY BACON SALAD WITH CIDER MAPLE DRIZZLE 🍏🥓🌰

Ingredients:

  • 2 medium apples (preferably Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
  • 4 slices of crispy bacon
  • 1 cup pecans (halved)
  • 5 ounces mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, and/or kale)
  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
  • ¼ cup apple cider
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon butter

Directions:

  1. Start by prepping the bacon: In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. This should take about 6-8 minutes. Once done, place the bacon on paper towels to drain excess fat. Reserve about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet for extra flavor in the apples.
  2. For the caramelized apples: Core and slice the apples into thin wedges. In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter and the reserved bacon fat. Once the butter melts, add apple slices along with a sprinkle of cinnamon. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown and tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
  3. While the apples are cooking, toast the pecans in a separate dry skillet over low heat for about 4-5 minutes. This step will enhance their flavor; keep an eye to prevent burning.
  4. In a small saucepan, combine apple cider and maple syrup. Bring it to a gentle simmer and reduce for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Now, assemble your salad. In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, caramelized apples, toasted pecans, and crumbled feta. Crumble the crispy bacon on top.
  6. Drizzle the warm cider maple reduction over the salad, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to combine all the flavors.
  7. Serve immediately, and enjoy the delicious mix of flavors and textures!

Additional Information:

  • Preparation time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking time: 15 minutes
  • Total time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 4

Nutritional Information (per serving): Approximate calories: 350

Notes:

Feel free to substitute the feta with goat cheese for a tangier flavor. You can also add dried cranberries or raisins for a hint of sweetness.

Leave a Comment