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This Apple, Gorgonzola & Candied Walnut Salad is a mixture of sweet and savory flavors, and trust me, it’s so good!

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It’s fall, which means it’s apple season! I thought this would be the perfect fall salad to share with all of you (although it’s good any time of the year).

I’ve had apple and gorgonzola salads at many different restaurants, and it’s always so good.

My Apple, Gorgonzola & Candied Walnut Salad is inspired by all of those salads. It’s simple, yet packs a big flavor punch! Sweet, crisp apple with creamy gorgonzola cheese, and sweet, crunchy walnuts topped with tangy balsamic vinaigrette…yum!

Are blue cheese and gorgonzola the same thing?

Gorgonzola is a type of blue cheese made only in Gorgonzola, Italy. It’s pungent and creamy and while it does have a “bite,” it’s generally milder than other blue cheeses.

While other blue cheeses can be made with cow’s, goat’s or sheep’s milk, gorgonzola is only made with cow’s milk.

Can I substitute another cheese for gorgonzola?

Yes, you can use a different cheese. If there is another type of blue cheese that you prefer, use that.

If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, you can substitute feta, goat cheese, or brie.

What kind of apples should I use for this salad?

Any apple will work in this salad, so use your favorite! I use fuji apples because I love their sweetness.

How do you make candied walnuts?

The candied walnuts add a sweet, delicious crunch to this salad. Making the candied walnuts is extremely easy:

Ingredients:

1 cup of walnuts (either halves or roughly chopped)
1/4 cup of sugar
1 tablespoon of butter

Step 1: Melt the butter in a non stick pan over medium heat.

Step 2: Add the walnuts and sugar and cook for about 5 minutes, or until all the sugar has melted and the walnuts are evenly coated. Stir the walnuts often, to prevent the them from burning.

Step 3: Spread the walnuts out on parchment paper and let them cool completely. Store them in an airtight container.

You can also substitute pecans in this recipe.

If you don’t want to make your own candied walnuts, you can always buy them here.

How do you make Apple, Gorgonzola & Candied Walnut Salad?

Salad:

3 cups of spring salad mix
1/4 cup of candied walnuts
1/4 cup of gorgonzola
1/2 an apple, thinly sliced

Balsamic Vinaigrette:

1 tablespoon of honey
1/2 tablespoon of dijon mustard
1/3 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
1/4 teaspoon of salt
1/4 teaspoon of black pepper

Step 1 Add dijon mustard, honey, balsamic vinegar, salt and pepper to a bowl and whisk together. Then, slowly add the oil while whisking. Keep whisking until the oil is fully incorporated.

Step 2: Add all of the salad ingredients to a large bowl and toss with your desired amount of dressing. Enjoy!

This recipe is for one large dinner salad, or 2-3 side salads. If you’re serving more people, simply multiply the recipe.

If you want a nice presentation for your guests, layer the salad instead of tossing it. Place the greens in a serving bowl and fan the apples over them. Sprinkle the gorgonzola and candied walnuts on top. Then, drizzle the dressing over the salad or serve it on the side.

If you are not serving the salad immediately, soak the apples in a little bit of lemon juice and water for a few minutes before adding them to your salad. This will prevent them from browning. For detailed instructions or other methods of keeping your apples from turning brown, click here.

Store extra dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Try these other great fall recipes!