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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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