Persimmon Salad with Maple Vinaigrette

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Persimmon Salad with Maple Vinaigrette is the perfect mix of textures and flavors. The crispness of arugula and the sweetness of the persimmons are beautifully complemented by the creamy goat cheese and crunchy toasted nuts. The maple vinaigrette ties it all together with its rich and warm sweetness. It’s easy to make, beautifully colorful, and packed with nutrients, making it not only delicious but also healthy. Plus, persimmons are a seasonal fruit that add a unique and refreshing twist to any salad.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Salad:

• 2 ripe persimmons (Fuyu or Hachiya, peeled and sliced)

• 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or baby kale work well)

• ½ cup crumbled goat cheese (or feta cheese)

• ¼ cup toasted walnuts or pecans

• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

• 1 avocado, sliced (optional)

• Fresh ground black pepper, to taste

• Sea salt, to taste

For the Maple Vinaigrette:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or white wine vinegar)

• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Making the Maple Vinaigrette:

1. Whisk the ingredients: In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Whisk together until well combined.

2. Season the vinaigrette: Add salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the sweetness by adding more maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter dressing.

Preparing the Salad:

1. Prepare the persimmons: If using Fuyu persimmons (firm), simply slice them thinly. If using Hachiya persimmons (which are more delicate and need to be ripe and soft), remove the skin and slice them carefully.

2. Toss the greens: In a large salad bowl, add the mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or baby kale). If you’re using red onion or avocado, add them now as well.

3. Assemble the salad: Gently arrange the sliced persimmons on top of the greens, followed by crumbled goat cheese and toasted walnuts or pecans. If you’re using avocado, add slices to the salad for extra creaminess.

4. Drizzle with vinaigrette: Pour the maple vinaigrette over the salad just before serving. Toss everything gently to combine, making sure the dressing coats all the ingredients.

Serving:

Serve the salad immediately as a light lunch, starter, or side dish. The bright, sweet, and savory flavors make it a perfect complement to a variety of main courses.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even roasted tofu to make it a more substantial meal.

• Substitute Cheese: If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, feta, ricotta, or blue cheese can be great substitutes.

• Additional Fruits: Add other seasonal fruits like pomegranate seeds, sliced apples, or pears for extra texture and flavor.

• Herb Variation: Add fresh herbs like thyme or mint for an aromatic twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the persimmons and greens can wilt quickly. However, you can store the salad components separately (greens, persimmons, nuts, and cheese) in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add the vinaigrette just before serving.

• Reheating: Since this salad is served cold, there’s no need for reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of persimmon?

Yes! You can use either Fuyu or Hachiya persimmons, depending on what you prefer. Fuyu persimmons are crunchy and great for slicing, while Hachiya persimmons are sweeter and softer when fully ripe.

Can I make the maple vinaigrette ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the maple vinaigrette in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure to give it a good shake or stir before using, as the ingredients may separate.

Can I add more nuts or seeds to the salad?

Absolutely! You can add any nuts or seeds you like, such as almonds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds. Toasted pecans or walnuts are great in this salad, but feel free to get creative.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes! This salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for anyone with gluten sensitivities.

Can I make this salad vegan?

To make this salad vegan, skip the goat cheese and use a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit the cheese entirely. You can also replace the honey in the dressing with maple syrup or agave.

Conclusion

Persimmon Salad with Maple Vinaigrette is a vibrant, fresh, and delicious dish that perfectly balances the sweet and tangy flavors of seasonal fruits with the richness of a homemade maple vinaigrette. With its crunchy nuts, creamy goat cheese, and juicy persimmons, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a satisfying and healthy choice. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it as a light lunch, this salad will leave everyone feeling refreshed and impressed.

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