Name: Crisp Orchard: Apple & Pepita Autumn Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: US
Ingredients: 1/4 cup hulled pumpkin seeds (pepitas); 1 teaspoon olive oil, or as needed; 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil; 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 2 tablespoons white sugar; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon mayonnaise; 1 teaspoon minced shallot; Ground black pepper to taste; 3 cups torn romaine lettuce leaves; 3 cups torn baby spinach; 1 cup dried apple chips; 1/4 cup dried cranberries; 1/4 cup crumbled bleu cheese

Embrace the flavors of fall with this vibrant salad, featuring crunchy pepitas, sweet apple chips, and tangy bleu cheese, all tossed in a homemade apple cider vinaigrette. A delightful harmony of textures and tastes!

Follow The Directions

01

Step

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). (Prep time: 2 minutes)

02

Step

Toss pepitas with 1 teaspoon olive oil in a bowl; spread onto a baking sheet. (Prep time: 1 minute)

03

Step

Toast in the preheated oven until pepitas start to turn golden brown and become fragrant, about 5 minutes. Let cool. (Cook time: 5 minutes, Cool time: 5 minutes)

04

Step

Combine 1/3 cup olive oil, vinegar, sugar, mustard, mayonnaise, shallot, and black pepper together in a container with a tight-fitting lid. (Prep time: 3 minutes)

05

Step

Screw on lid tightly and shake dressing vigorously. (Prep time: 1 minute)

06

Step

Toss the toasted pepitas, dressing, romaine lettuce, spinach, apple chips, cranberries, and bleu cheese together in a large bowl. (Prep time: 5 minutes)

For a nuttier flavor, try toasting the pepitas in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly, until golden brown.
If you don't have dried apple chips, substitute with diced fresh apple for a different texture and sweetness.
Experiment with different cheeses, such as goat cheese or feta, for a unique twist.
Make the vinaigrette ahead of time and store in the refrigerator for up to a week. Shake well before using.
Adjust the amount of sugar in the dressing to your liking, depending on the sweetness of the apple chips and cranberries.

Agnes Windler

Written by

Our recipe authors are passionate food lovers who share thousands of diverse dishes from around the world. They bring daily cooking inspiration with delicious, easy-to-make recipes for every occasion.