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Blue Cheese Salad

Quick and Healthy Blue Cheese Salad

This Blue Cheese Salad is a perfect balance of bold flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you need a quick, healthy meal after a long day or an elegant starter for a dinner party, this salad has you covered.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 2
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • Large salad bowl
  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Salad tongs or mixing spoons

Ingredients
  

Salad Base

  • 4 cups mixed greens (spring mix, arugula, spinach, or a combination)
  • 1 apple or pear (thinly sliced; Gala apples or Bartlett pears recommended)
  • 1 cup grilled chicken breast (optional, sliced or diced)
  • 1/4 small red onion (thinly sliced)

Toppings

  • 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
  • 1/3 cup candied pecans or walnuts
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)

Dressing

  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinaigrette (store-bought or homemade)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Greens
    In a large salad bowl, place 4 cups of mixed greens. If serving two, divide between two plates or bowls.
    A Tray of Fresh Leafy Greens, Including Romaine, Butter Lettuce, and Endive, Ready to Be Prepped for A Salad
  • Slice Fruits and Vegetables
    Thinly slice the apple or pear, leaving the skin on for added texture (optional). Slice the red onion into delicate strips.
    A Close-Up of A Knife Slicing Thin Red Apple Wedges on A Cutting Board
  • Add Key Ingredients and Toppings
    Sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese over the greens, then add the grilled chicken if desired. Finish by layering the apple slices, candied nuts, and dried cranberries evenly across the salad.
    A Fresh Salad Topped with Crumbled Blue Cheese, Apple Slices, Walnuts, Red Onion, and Dried Cranberries in A White Bowl
  • Dress the Salad
    Drizzle 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinaigrette evenly across the salad. Gently toss if desired or leave as-is for presentation.
    A Jar of Golden Vinaigrette Being Poured Over a Fresh Salad with Apple Slices, Candied Nuts, Blue Cheese, and Greens
  • Season and Serve
    Add a pinch of salt and a few cracks of fresh pepper. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
    A Plated Green Salad with Sliced Pears, Walnuts, and Fresh Greens, Lightly Seasoned and Ready to Serve

Video

Notes

Cooking Tips

  • Nut Alternatives: If you don’t have candied nuts, use plain roasted ones or toast them briefly in a dry skillet for extra crunch.
  • Dressing Substitutions: Try a honey mustard, olive oil and lemon juice, or raspberry vinaigrette for a different flavor profile.
  • Fruit Variations: Swap apples for pears, or try using seasonal fruits like fresh figs or peaches.
Keyword Blue Cheese, Easy Dinner, Gluten-Free, Healthy Recipe, Quick Meal, Salad