Overtime, I’ve discovered that the secret to a memorable salad lies in its ability to surprise and delight. This Millionaire Salad does just that, combining unexpected ingredients for a dish that’s as rich in flavor as it is in name. Perfect for those who love to indulge in the finer things in life, without spending a fortune.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of sweet and savory elements creates a complex flavor profile that’s irresistibly delicious.
- High-quality, simple ingredients ensure that each component shines, making the salad feel luxurious.
- It’s versatile enough to serve as a main dish or a side, fitting perfectly into any meal plan.
- The recipe is easy to customize, allowing you to adjust based on what’s in season or your personal preferences.
- It’s a visually stunning dish that’s sure to impress guests at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed greens (washed and dried)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/2 avocado (sliced)
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1/4 cup candied pecans
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
- Large salad bowl
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by washing and drying your mixed greens to ensure they’re clean and crisp. Halve the cherry tomatoes, thinly slice the red onion, and slice the avocado. Having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go makes the assembly process a breeze. Tip: To prevent the avocado from browning, lightly drizzle it with lemon juice after slicing.
Assemble the Salad
In a large salad bowl, layer the mixed greens as the base. Arrange the cherry tomatoes, red onion slices, and avocado on top of the greens. Sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese and candied pecans evenly over the salad. This step is where your salad starts to look like a million bucks!
Make the Dressing
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic glaze until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The simplicity of this dressing allows the high-quality ingredients in the salad to stand out. Tip: For a creamier dressing, you can add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the mix.
Dress the Salad
Drizzle the dressing over the assembled salad just before serving. Toss gently to ensure all the ingredients are lightly coated with the dressing. This ensures every bite is as flavorful as the last. Tip: Add the dressing right before serving to keep the greens crisp and prevent them from wilting.
Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the salad to individual plates or serve it family-style in the large bowl. This Millionaire Salad is best enjoyed fresh, making it the perfect dish for impressing guests or treating yourself to a luxurious meal.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra touch of luxury, consider adding thinly sliced prosciutto or grilled shrimp to the salad. If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, feta or goat cheese make excellent substitutes. Toasting the pecans before candying them adds an extra layer of flavor and crunch. If you’re preparing this salad ahead of time, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to maintain the freshness and texture of the greens.
Recipe Variations
- For a sweeter version, add sliced strawberries or pears.
- Substitute the candied pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different crunch.
- Add grilled chicken or salmon to turn the salad into a hearty main course.
- Use arugula instead of mixed greens for a peppery twist.
- Experiment with different dressings, such as a honey mustard or raspberry vinaigrette, to change up the flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble and dress the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp and fresh. Store the prepped ingredients separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use them.
What can I use instead of blue cheese?
If blue cheese isn’t your favorite, you can easily substitute it with feta, goat cheese, or even shaved Parmesan for a different but equally delicious flavor profile.
How can I make this salad vegan?
To make a vegan version of this salad, omit the blue cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative. Ensure that the candied pecans are made without honey, using maple syrup or another vegan sweetener instead.
Summary
This Millionaire Salad is a luxurious take on a classic, combining sweet, savory, and crunchy elements for a dish that’s sure to impress. With simple, high-quality ingredients and easy customization options, it’s perfect for any occasion.
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