Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Chicory Salad Recipe

The Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Chicory Salad is seriously one of those powerhouses of flavor and texture that manages to turn even the most ordinary meal into something truly memorable. With the satisfying crunch of toasted walnuts, the tangy bite from blue cheese, and the bold, slightly bitter freshness of chicory, every forkful is a deliciously balanced adventure. Toss in crisp apples and sweet cranberries, and top it all off with a punchy mustard vinaigrette, this salad is proof that impressive food doesn’t need to be complicated.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This lineup of tasty ingredients is not just simple, it’s perfectly balanced. Each one brings a special touch to the Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Chicory Salad—whether bright color, tangy flavor, or irresistible crunch.

• Chicory leaves (or Belgian endive): The backbone of the salad; these leaves are crisp and offer that signature, slightly bitter bite.
• Blue cheese, crumbled: Rich and creamy with just the right amount of tang to bring the salad to life.
• Walnuts, toasted: Toasting amps up their nutty depth and adds that all-important crunch.
• Red apple, thinly sliced: Crisp and sweet, apple brightens every bite and plays beautifully with the other flavors.
• Dried cranberries: Just a tiny handful brings welcome chewy sweetness and a pop of color.
• Extra-virgin olive oil: Gives the dressing a silky, luxurious texture and ties all the flavors together.
• Red wine vinegar: This is what delivers zippy acidity, making the flavors sing.
• Dijon mustard: For a little heat and complexity in the dressing.
• Honey: Balances the tart and bitter notes with gentle sweetness.
• Salt: Just a pinch to round out all the flavors.
• Black pepper: A dash brings subtle warmth and balances everything perfectly.

How to Make Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Chicory Salad

Step 1: Combine the Salad Ingredients

Grab your favorite large salad bowl and simply add the torn chicory leaves (or Belgian endive, if that’s what you have), crumbled blue cheese, toasted walnuts, thinly sliced apple, and dried cranberries. These are the stars of the Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Chicory Salad, and mixing them now helps every serving get a little of everything.

Step 2: Whisk the Vinaigrette

In a separate small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper. If using a jar, pop the lid on and give it a good shake until everything is beautifully emulsified. This punchy, sweet-tart dressing is the secret to pulling all those big flavors together.

Step 3: Dress and Toss the Salad

Drizzle your freshly made vinaigrette right over the bowl of assembled ingredients. Gently toss everything together, making sure every leaf is glossy and each apple slice gets a little hit of dressing. You want every bite of Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Chicory Salad to be dressed to impress—but not soggy.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

As soon as everything is tossed, serve up the salad right away. The apples stay crisp, the blue cheese keeps its texture, and the chicory doesn’t wilt. This salad truly shines the moment it’s finished, so gather your people and dig in!

How to Serve Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Chicory Salad

Garnishes

The Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Chicory Salad looks gorgeous just as it is, but if you want to make it extra festive, sprinkle a few more crumbles of blue cheese on top right before serving. A touch of freshly cracked black pepper or a handful of whole toasted walnuts makes it look (and taste) restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with roasted meats—think roast chicken, pork tenderloin, or a juicy steak. It’s also a wonderful companion to hearty vegetable soups, crusty bread, or a selection of European cheeses for a cozy dinner spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Chicory Salad in individual endive leaves for an elegant appetizer, or layer everything in a shallow platter for a family-style presentation that’s ready to impress guests at any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Chicory Salad leftover, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. While the flavors will still be delicious, the chicory may wilt slightly, so for the freshest crunch, enjoy within 24 hours.

Freezing

This salad isn’t a candidate for freezing due to the delicate leaves and fresh fruit. Freezing would compromise the texture and make the chicory soggy and unappetizing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating

No need to reheat! The Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Chicory Salad is at its very best when served cold or at room temperature. If it’s been refrigerated, just let it sit out for a minute or two to take the chill off before eating.

FAQs

Can I substitute another cheese if I don’t like blue cheese?

Absolutely! Try Gorgonzola for a milder bite or even creamy goat cheese for a totally different flavor profile—both taste fantastic in this Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Chicory Salad.

What if I can’t find chicory or endive?

If chicory or Belgian endive are unavailable, arugula or escarole make great substitutes. Their peppery flavor works well alongside the other ingredients.

Can I prepare the salad ahead of time?

You can prep most ingredients in advance, but wait to slice the apple and toss everything together (with the dressing) just before serving to keep it crisp and fresh.

Are candied walnuts a good replacement for regular walnuts?

Candied walnuts add extra crunch and a sweet note that enhances the salad beautifully—just be sure to taste and adjust the dressing if needed to keep things balanced.

Is the Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Chicory Salad gluten-free?

Yes, the core recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a fantastic choice for sharing with friends who have dietary restrictions!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a salad that dazzles with both taste and looks, the Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Chicory Salad is the one to try. Every bite is fresh, bold, and a little unexpected—a true celebration of simple, delicious ingredients. I hope you enjoy sharing this flavorful salad as much as I do!

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