Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will revolutionize your salad experience! This Curly Endive and Grape Salad is not just another boring green dish – it's a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your palate and leave you craving more. With a perfect balance of crisp endive, sweet grapes, crunchy walnuts, and tangy feta, this recipe is about to become your new obsession. Get ready to impress your dinner guests and elevate your home cooking game with this incredibly simple yet sophisticated salad!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 bunch curly endive, washed and torn
- 1 cup grapes, halved
- 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash the curly endive under cold running water, carefully separating the leaves to remove any dirt or debris. Pat dry with clean paper towels or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
- Tear the endive leaves into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Carefully wash the grapes and slice them in half lengthwise, removing any seeds if present.
- Place a small skillet over medium heat and add the walnuts. Toast them gently, stirring frequently, until they become fragrant and develop a light golden color, approximately 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create the dressing. Mix until the ingredients are well combined.
- Add the halved grapes to the bowl with the endive leaves.
- Sprinkle the toasted walnuts and crumbled feta cheese over the salad.
- Drizzle the prepared balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss all ingredients to ensure even coating.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve immediately to maintain the crispness of the endive and the freshness of the ingredients.
Tips
- Washing Technique: When cleaning curly endive, use cold water and gently separate the leaves to ensure all dirt is removed without bruising the delicate greens.
- Toasting Nuts: Watch your walnuts carefully while toasting – they can burn quickly! Remove from heat as soon as they become fragrant and golden.
- Dressing Hack: Whisk your vinaigrette thoroughly to create a perfect emulsion that coats every ingredient evenly.
- Timing is Key: Prepare this salad just before serving to maintain the crispness of the endive and the freshness of the ingredients.
- Customization Options: Feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans or add some sliced red onions for extra crunch and flavor.
- Cheese Tip: Use high-quality feta for the best flavor – consider trying a creamy Greek or French variety.
- Make-Ahead Advice: Prepare ingredients separately and combine just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
