Looking for the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy? This heart-healthy apple gorgonzola salad captures the best flavors of fall in one bowl. Crisp diced apples and earthy gorgonzola cheese pair beautifully with a homemade balsamic vinaigrette, creating a dish that is far more exciting than your average side salad.
For even more fresh inspiration, be sure to browse our full collection of healthy salad recipes perfect for any season. You can also make the most of the harvest by exploring more of our favorite quick and healthy apple recipes that highlight this nutritious fruit.
This salad is designed to be nutrient-dense without sacrificing flavor. By using a vinaigrette base instead of a heavy cream dressing, we keep the saturated fat low while boosting heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. The combination of fresh produce and nuts provides a significant dose of fiber and antioxidants, making this a smart choice for a heart-conscious diet.
You can prep the components in advance, but it is best to toss the salad right before serving. If you mix it too early, the acids in the balsamic vinegar will cause the lettuce to wilt and become soggy.
If you are cutting the apples in advance, toss them in a small bowl with a teaspoon of lemon juice. The acid prevents oxidation and keeps the flesh crisp and white until you are ready to assemble the salad.
Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free as long as you double-check your mustard and gorgonzola labels to ensure they were processed in a gluten-free facility.
Absolutely. While Romaine provides a great crunch, this salad is also delicious with baby spinach, arugula (for a peppery bite), or mixed spring greens.
Yes! Leaving the skin on adds color, texture, and extra fiber. Just be sure to wash the apples thoroughly before dicing.
If you love fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, we have plenty of other nutrient-packed salad options to try. These recipes range from protein-rich mains to colorful side dishes that support a heart-healthy diet.
Turn this salad into a complete meal by serving it alongside these warming, fall-inspired favorites. From savory roasted turkey to comforting soups, these dishes create a perfectly balanced and healthy autumn menu.
For a salad like this, texture is key. You want an apple variety that stays crisp and offers a nice balance of sweet and tart to cut through the richness of the cheese.
Gorgonzola is a specific type of Italian blue cheese made from cow's milk. It has a crumbly texture and a distinct "bite" that pairs incredibly well with sweet fruit like apples or pears. Because it is so flavorful, a little goes a long way, which helps keep the saturated fat and sodium lower than in salads loaded with milder cheeses. If you find Gorgonzola too strong, you can substitute it with a milder crumbled blue cheese or even feta, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
Dried Fruit: Add a handful of unsweetened dried cranberries or cherries for extra chewy texture and tartness.
Recipe yields 6 servings
In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar and mustard. Slowly whisk in the olive oil until emulsified.
In a large bowl, combine the apples, Romaine, walnuts and Gorgonzola. Add the vinaigrette, season with black pepper and toss to coat evenly.
This salad is versatile enough to accompany a casual weeknight dinner or a festive holiday spread.
Greens: Swap Romaine for baby spinach or mixed greens if you prefer a softer leaf.
Nuts: Pecans are a fantastic substitute for walnuts and pair equally well with apples. You can also use almonds or pumpkin seeds (pepitas) for a nut-free crunch.
Fruit: Pears are a classic alternative to apples in this recipe. Use firm Bosc or Anjou pears for the best texture.
Cheese: If you aren't a fan of blue cheese, crumbled feta or goat cheese works well, offering a tangy flavor without the "earthy" notes of gorgonzola.
Mustard: If you don't have spicy brown mustard, Dijon mustard is an excellent substitute for the vinaigrette.