“Express Salad” with Apples, Beans, and Cheese

The “Express Salad” is a quick, easy, and flavorful salad that combines the tangy sweetness of apples, the richness of cheese, and the hearty texture of canned beans. This salad is perfect for those moments when you need to prepare something delicious in a hurry, whether for a quick lunch, side dish, or light dinner. The addition of garlic gives it a nice punch, while the creamy mayonnaise dressing brings all the ingredients together. The salad is packed with protein, fiber, and flavor, making it a nutritious and satisfying option for busy days. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious salad recipe!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 2 sweet and sour apples, chopped
  • 1 can canned beans (red or white), drained and rinsed
  • 70 g cheese (cheddar, gouda, or any mild cheese), grated
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Mayonnaise, for dressing (about 2-3 tablespoons)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Steps to Make “Express Salad”:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

  • Chop the Apples: Start by washing and chopping the apples into small bite-sized pieces. Since apples tend to brown quickly, you can drizzle them with a little lemon juice to keep them fresh and vibrant.
  • Drain the Beans: Open the can of beans, drain, and rinse them under cold water to remove any excess salt or preservatives. Let them drain completely in a colander.
  • Grate the Cheese: Grate the cheese of your choice. Cheddar works well for a sharp flavor, while gouda or mozzarella provides a milder, creamier taste.

2. Mix the Salad:

  • Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped apples, drained beans, grated cheese, and minced garlic.
  • Season and Dress: Add salt and black pepper to taste. Then, add 2-3 tablespoons of mayonnaise and gently toss everything together until the salad is evenly coated with the dressing.

3. Taste and Adjust:

  • After mixing the salad, taste it to see if more salt or pepper is needed. Depending on the type of cheese and beans you use, you may need to adjust the seasoning. You can also add more mayonnaise if you prefer a creamier salad.

4. Serve:

  • Serve the salad immediately for the freshest flavor, or cover it and chill in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld together. This salad pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving, based on 4 servings):

  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Carbohydrates: 27 g
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Cholesterol: 25 mg

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

FAQs:

1. Can I use a different type of cheese for this salad?
Yes! Feel free to use any cheese you like. Feta, goat cheese, or blue cheese would add a tangier flavor, while Swiss or mozzarella would offer a milder taste.

2. What type of beans should I use?
You can use red kidney beans, white beans, cannellini beans, or even black beans. Canned beans are convenient, but you can also cook dried beans from scratch if you prefer.

3. Can I replace mayonnaise with another dressing?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise or want a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt, sour cream, or even a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil and lemon juice.

4. Can I add other ingredients to this salad?
Yes, this salad is very versatile. You can add chopped celery, walnuts, or dried cranberries for extra texture and flavor. You could also mix in some fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added freshness.

Tips for Making the Perfect “Express Salad”:

  1. Use Fresh, Crisp Apples:
    The sweet and sour apples are a key ingredient in this salad. Choose apples that are firm and crisp, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They provide a lovely crunch and a nice balance of sweetness and acidity.
  2. Rinse the Beans Well:
    Rinsing canned beans helps to remove excess salt and improves the overall flavor of the salad. It also helps prevent the salad from becoming too wet or mushy.
  3. Adjust the Garlic to Taste:
    Garlic adds a nice punch to the salad, but if you’re not a fan of strong garlic flavor, you can reduce the amount or leave it out entirely. Roasted garlic is also a milder, sweeter alternative.
  4. Make it Creamy or Light:
    If you prefer a lighter salad, use less mayonnaise or swap it out for a lighter dressing like Greek yogurt. For a creamier texture, simply add more mayonnaise or mix it with a little sour cream for a richer flavor.

Storage Tips:

Refrigerating:
This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days in an airtight container. Keep in mind that the apples may start to brown slightly after a day, but the flavor will still be delicious. To keep the salad looking fresh, you can toss the apples in a little lemon juice before mixing them into the salad.

Freezing:
This salad is not ideal for freezing due to the fresh apples and mayonnaise-based dressing. The texture of the apples and beans will not hold up well after being frozen and thawed. It’s best to enjoy this salad fresh.

Conclusion:

“Express Salad” with Apples, Beans, and Cheese is the perfect go-to dish when you’re in need of something quick, easy, and satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients, this salad delivers a delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. The crispness of the apples complements the creaminess of the cheese and the hearty texture of the beans, while the garlic and mayonnaise dressing adds a flavorful punch. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it on its own, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a great option for busy days, and with a few personal touches, you can adapt it to suit your taste perfectly. Enjoy!