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Watercress Salad with Apple, Pear, and Toasted Almonds Recipe


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4.3 from 8 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 17 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

A fresh and vibrant Watercress Salad with crisp apple and pear slices, toasted almonds, and a tangy mustard-honey dressing. This light and nutritious salad is perfect for a quick lunch or a refreshing side dish.


Ingredients

Salad

  • 3 cups watercress
  • 1 green apple
  • 1 pear
  • ⅓ cup almonds

Dressing

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ lemon (juiced)
  • 1 tsp seeded mustard
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp mayonnaise
  • salt (to taste)


Instructions

  1. Prepare the watercress: Wash the watercress thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or grit. Trim off any tough stems and set aside.
  2. Slice the fruit: Cut the green apple and pear into thin matchstick-sized pieces. To prevent browning, place the apple and pear slices in a bowl of salted cold water immediately after cutting.
  3. Toast the almonds: Heat a dry pan over medium heat and add the almonds. Toast them for 1-2 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally to ensure even toasting. Remove the almonds from the pan and roughly chop them once cooled.
  4. Make the dressing: In a mason jar or a small bowl, combine olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, seeded mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and salt. Secure the lid and shake vigorously or whisk until all ingredients are well emulsified.
  5. Assemble the salad: Drain the apple and pear slices from the salted water and add them to a large bowl along with the prepared watercress and chopped toasted almonds. Pour the mustard dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
  6. Serve: Transfer the salad to serving plates or a large serving bowl and serve immediately to enjoy the fresh, crisp textures and vibrant flavors.

Notes

  • Soaking apple and pear slices in salted water helps prevent oxidation and browning.
  • To enhance the flavor, you can substitute almonds with walnuts or pecans if desired.
  • Adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or honey according to your taste preference.
  • This salad is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 2 hours before serving.
  • For a vegan version, substitute mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative or omit it.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Western