Skill level: Easy
This apple spinach salad combines crisp greens with sliced apples, pomegranate seeds, and a mix of crunchy toppings for a well-balanced dish. The addition of coconut bacon brings a smoky element, while the balsamic dressing ties everything together with a smooth, slightly sweet finish. With a variety of textures and flavors in each bite, this salad works well as a light meal or a side for any occasion.
A fresh salad packed with texture from crunchy toppings and a smooth balsamic dressing
Ingredients
Salad
- 1 small head of romaine lettuce, chopped
- 8 ounces of spinach
- 2 Autumn Glory® apples, thinly sliced
- Seeds from 1 pomegranate
- 1 cup coconut bacon (see recipe below)
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup roasted salted pumpkin seeds
- ¾ cup caramelized pecans.
Dressing
- ¾ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic reduction
- ¼ cup honey
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 small shallot, minced
Coconut bacon
- 2 cups large flaked unsweetened coconut
- 1 tablespoon liquid smoke
- 1 tablespoon liquid aminos
- 1 ½ tablespoons maple syrup
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
Directions
- For coconut bacon
- Preheat oven to 350ºF
- Place all ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
- Spread evenly onto a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 12-14 min. Watch closely after 10 minutes, as it can burn quickly.
- Let cool completely before using. Store in an airtight container.
For Salad
- Add all dressing ingredients together and mix well. It can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge.
- Add all salad ingredients except the apple to a bowl and toss with dressing.
- Place apples on top and sprinkle with extra pumpkin seeds and nuts, and drizzle with dressing. (If desired, soak apples in a little lemon juice prior to keeping them fresh and from browning)
- Serve and enjoy every bite!
Recipe created by Azure Farm for Superfresh Growers.
