Chicory Carrot Salad Verrine Recipe

As I whipped up this vibrant, crunchy salad, I couldn’t help but feel like I was crafting a masterpiece in a bowl—because honestly, who knew chicory, carrots, and apples could be such an iconic trio?

I love to create bright, healthful dishes, and this Chicory Carrot Salad Verrine is a perfect example. The earthy crunch of chicory pairs beautifully with sweet, grated carrots and crisp apple, while walnuts and crumbled feta add richness and texture.

A drizzle of olive oil and apple cider vinegar takes it over the top, making this an even more enticing dish. I served it layered in a glass for a dinner party, but it can also just be served in a bowl.

Both ways make for an excellent presentation.

Chicory Carrot Salad Verrine Recipe Ingredients

• Chicory: High in fiber, promotes digestion, slightly bitter flavor.
• Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene and antioxidants, adds natural sweetness.
• Apples: Adds crunch and sweetness, high in vitamin C and fiber.
• Walnuts: Source of healthy fats and protein, provides crunch and richness.
• Feta Cheese: Adds creamy texture, offers a salty contrast, source of calcium.
• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, adds smooth richness.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Provides tangy sharpness, aids in balancing flavors.
• Honey: Natural sweetener, adds depth and complements vinegar.

Chicory Carrot Salad Verrine Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 head of chicory, washed and chopped
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
• 1 apple, cored and diced
• 50g (about 1.75 oz) walnuts, roughly chopped
• 50g (about 1.75 oz) crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

How to Make this Chicory Carrot Salad Verrine Recipe

1. In a tiny basin, blend with a wire whisk the extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, raw honey, sea salt, and freshly ground pepper. This will yield a simple but delightful salad dressing.

2. A big mixing bowl is used to combine the apple, diced, carrots, and chicory, chopped.

3. Drizzle the dressing on the mixture made of chicory, carrot, and apple. Toss it with gentle, reassuring motions to get all the ingredients very well acquainted with the dressing.

4. In a pan with no moisture, over medium heat, toast the walnuts for about 2-3 minutes until they are light golden and giving off a nice smell. Remove from heat and allow to cool a bit.

5. After cooling, include the toasted walnuts and feta cheese that has been crumbled into the salad, and mix gently to combine.

6. Sample the salad and, if necessary, refine the seasoning with additional salt and pepper.

7. Verrine glasses or small serving cups are prepared by spooning the salad mixture evenly into each one. Pressing lightly to compact is the next step.

8. Every verrine should be garnished with a light dusting of fresh parsley and an added sprinkle of feta cheese for good measure.

9. To let the flavors meld together for optimal taste, chill the verrines for at least 30 minutes.

10. Serve as a super refreshing chilled appetizer or side. Everyday there-after, of course.

Chicory Carrot Salad Verrine Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Tiny basin
2. Wire whisk
3. Big mixing bowl
4. Medium saucepan or frying pan
5. Measuring spoons
6. Cutting board
7. Knife
8. Grater
9. Salad tongs or large spoon
10. Verrine glasses or small serving cups
11. Spoon (for serving into verrine glasses)

FAQ

• Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?Indeed, goat cheese or blue cheese would complement the flavors excellently. However, they may impart a slightly different taste to the salad.
• What can I use as a substitute for apple cider vinegar?You can use white wine vinegar or lemon juice as an alternative, but they will impart a slightly different flavor to the dressing.
• Are there any nut-free alternatives?You can definitely leave out the walnuts or sub in sunflower or pumpkin seeds if you want a version that’s free of nuts.
• How far in advance can I prepare this salad?It is permissible to prepare the salad a day ahead, but the dressing is best added just prior to serving. Doing so will ensure the ingredients remain fresh and crisp.
• Can I make this salad vegan?Certainly! Substituting feta cheese with a vegan cheese or leaving it out entirely is a fine option. Use agave syrup or pure maple syrup if you do not have honey.
• What type of apple works best in this recipe?An apple that’s crisp, such as a Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, is excellent because it offers a sweet-tart flavor balance.
• Is there a way to make the carrots easier to grate?Time and effort when grating carrots can be saved by using a grating attachment on a food processor.

Chicory Carrot Salad Verrine Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Endive or radicchio can be used to replace chicory and impart a similar bitter taste.
Pecans or almonds can be used instead of walnuts to achieve a different kind of nutty flavor.
Goat cheese or blue cheese can be used instead of feta cheese, providing a creamy texture and a sharp flavor.
For acidity, substitute apple cider vinegar with white wine vinegar or lemon juice.
Maple syrup or agave nectar can take the place of honey to provide a natural sweetness.

Pro Tips

1. Make the Dressing Ahead Preparing the dressing a few hours in advance allows the flavors to meld together more deeply. Keep it in the refrigerator and give it a good shake before using.

2. Chill the Ingredients For an extra refreshing experience, ensure your chicory, carrots, and apple are chilled before assembling the salad. This will enhance the crispness and freshness when serving.

3. Enhance Nut Flavor For a more robust nutty flavor, you can add a pinch of salt to the walnuts while toasting them. This will also give them a savory edge.

4. Balanced Apple Cut To prevent the apple from browning before use, toss the diced pieces in a little bit of lemon juice. This keeps them looking fresh and adds a slight tang to complement the salad dressing.

5. Layer for Texture When assembling in verrine glasses, consider layering the ingredients (e.g., a layer of salad, then a sprinkle of walnuts and feta). This enhances the visual appeal and ensures each bite delivers all flavors and textures.