Check out this crisp Belgian endive salad recipe
Belgian endive, a leafy vegetable, is the star of this crisp salad. Originating from Belgium in the 19th century, this chicory family member is known for its slightly bitter taste and crunchy texture. It's a popular ingredient in European cuisine and has gained appreciation worldwide for its versatility in salads. Ready to enjoy a fresh take on greens? Let's get cooking.
Gather the following ingredients
For the salad, procure four heads of Belgian endive, one cup of chopped walnuts, and one cup of diced red apples. Include half a cup of dried cranberries. The dressing requires three tablespoons of olive oil, one tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, and one teaspoon of Dijon mustard. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to suit your taste preferences.
Prepare the endive leaves
Start by rinsing the Belgian endive heads under a stream of cold water. After washing, use a clean towel to pat them dry, ensuring they're free from excess moisture. Next, trim away the bitter bottom core of each head. Carefully separate the leaves, and for those that are larger, slice them lengthwise into halves or quarters to create manageable, bite-sized pieces for your salad.
Mix dressing ingredients
In a small bowl, whisk three tablespoons of olive oil with one tablespoon of balsamic vinegar. Stir in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard until the ingredients are fully integrated and the dressing appears smooth. Carefully season with salt and pepper, tasting as you go, to ensure a well-rounded flavor that will enhance the Belgian endives' crisp texture and offset their mild bitterness.
Combine salad components
Place the prepared Belgian endive leaves into a large mixing bowl. Add in the chopped walnuts and diced red apples, creating a blend of crunchy and soft textures. Toss these ingredients to ensure an even mix. Top this combination with dried cranberries, adding a sweet contrast to the tangy dressing, and then gently mix everything to ensure the salad components are well combined.
Toss salad with dressing
Pour the dressing over the bowl of Belgian endive, apples, walnuts, and cranberries. Toss to coat every ingredient, ensuring each bite is flavorful. The mix of crisp endive, sweet apples, rich nuts, and tart cranberries creates a delightful balance. Serve this salad immediately on plates or as a buffet feature to maintain its crispness and fresh taste.
