A stunning combination of vibrant colors and complementary flavors, this Layered Wild Rice & Honeycrisp Salad is as much a visual masterpiece as it is a delicious meal. The crisp sweetness of Honeycrisp apples, the savory crunch of bacon and toasted almonds, and the tangy burst of pomegranate seeds come together atop a bed of fresh greens. Finished with a drizzle of a bold and slightly spiced maple dressing, this salad is perfect for celebrations or a delightful weekday indulgence. This gorgeous salad is perfect for any gathering or as a show-stopping addition to your table. Packed with fresh ingredients and drizzled with a flavorful dressing, it’s as nutritious as it is beautiful.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

  • 1 layer of mixed greens (such as power greens)
  • 4 oz crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
  • 1 Joyfully Grown Honeycrisp apple, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup cooked wild rice
  • 1 lb cooked and crumbled bacon
  • 1/3 cup slivered toasted almonds
  • 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
  • Cotton candy grapes, for garnish

For the Dressing:

  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp curry powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Base:

Start with a large, flat serving platter or plate. Spread the mixed greens evenly across the bottom as the base layer.

Layer the Ingredients:

  1. Arrange the sliced Honeycrisp apple in a neat line across the greens.
  2. Add the cooked wild rice in a strip next to the apples.
  3. Create another strip with the crumbled bacon.
  4. Sprinkle the slivered toasted almonds next to the bacon.
  5. Add a line of pomegranate seeds for a pop of color.
  6. Finish with a garnish of cotton candy grapes and crumbled Gorgonzola cheese in separate sections or as desired.

 

Prepare the Dressing:

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, curry powder, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

Serve:

Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving or serve it on the side for guests to add as desired.

 

This salad is a feast for both the eyes and the palate, combining sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in every bite. Enjoy!


Recipe by Valerie Musser of @WHOSAGOODLIZARD