Spelt Apple Salad: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe

Spelt apple salad: Prepare to be amazed by this unexpectedly delightful combination! Have you ever craved a dish that’s both hearty and refreshing, wholesome and bursting with flavor? This isn’t your average salad; it’s a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you feeling energized.

While the exact origins of combining spelt with apples in a salad are somewhat shrouded in mystery, the use of spelt itself dates back thousands of years. This ancient grain, a close relative of wheat, was a staple in many cultures, prized for its nutty flavor and nutritional benefits. Apples, of course, have been cultivated for centuries and hold a special place in folklore and culinary traditions worldwide. Combining these two ingredients creates a dish that feels both timeless and modern.

People adore this spelt apple salad for its incredible versatility and satisfying texture. The chewy spelt provides a delightful contrast to the crisp, sweet apples. The addition of crunchy nuts and a tangy dressing elevates it to a truly unforgettable experience. It’s perfect as a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or even a potluck contribution that’s sure to impress. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize with your favorite ingredients, making it a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Get ready to discover your new favorite salad!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup spelt berries, rinsed
• 3 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, extra virgin
• 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large apples (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji), cored and diced
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped

Dressing Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup olive oil, extra virgin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking the Spelt:

Okay, let’s get started! First things first, we need to cook our spelt berries. Don’t worry, it’s super easy!

1. Rinse the Spelt: Place the rinsed spelt berries in a medium saucepan. Rinsing helps remove any excess starch and ensures a fluffier texture.
2. Add Liquid and Salt: Pour in the water or vegetable broth (I prefer broth for a richer flavor!) and add the salt. The ratio of liquid to spelt is crucial for proper cooking.
3. Bring to a Boil: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t boil over!
4. Simmer and Cook: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for about 45-50 minutes, or until the spelt is tender and the liquid is absorbed. You want the spelt to be chewy but not hard. Check it periodically and add a little more water if needed.
5. Fluff and Cool: Once cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat and fluff the spelt with a fork. This helps release any trapped steam. Let it cool completely before adding it to the salad. This is important because warm spelt will wilt the other ingredients.

Preparing the Apple and Onion Mixture:

While the spelt is cooking and cooling, let’s prepare the apple and onion mixture. This step adds a lovely savory-sweet element to the salad.

1. Sauté the Onion: Heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced red onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. We want them soft and sweet, not crispy.
2. Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
3. Add Apples: Add the diced apples to the skillet and cook for about 3-5 minutes, until they are slightly softened but still have a bit of bite. We don’t want them to turn into applesauce!
4. Cool the Mixture: Remove the skillet from the heat and let the apple and onion mixture cool completely. Again, this is important to prevent wilting the other salad ingredients.

Making the Dressing:

A good dressing can make or break a salad. This apple cider vinaigrette is the perfect complement to the spelt and apples.

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey (or maple syrup).
2. Emulsify the Dressing: Slowly drizzle in the 1/4 cup of olive oil while whisking continuously until the dressing is emulsified and creamy. This means the oil and vinegar are properly combined and won’t separate.
3. Season to Taste: Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your liking. You might want a little more honey for sweetness or a little more vinegar for tang.

Assembling the Salad:

Now for the fun part – putting everything together!

1. Combine Spelt and Apple Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cooled cooked spelt and the cooled apple and onion mixture.
2. Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the dried cranberries, chopped walnuts (or pecans), chopped parsley, and chopped chives to the bowl.
3. Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Make sure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Taste and Adjust: Taste the salad and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or even a splash of apple cider vinegar.
5. Chill (Optional): For the best flavor, chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together. However, it’s also delicious served immediately!

Tips and Variations:

This spelt apple salad is incredibly versatile! Here are a few ideas to customize it to your liking:

• Add Cheese: Crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese would be a delicious addition.
• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or lentils for a heartier salad.
• Different Fruits: Try using pears, grapes, or pomegranate seeds instead of or in addition to apples.
• Nut-Free Option: Omit the nuts or substitute with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little heat.
• Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like dill, mint, or tarragon.
• Make it Vegan: Use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.

Serving Suggestions:

This spelt apple salad is perfect as a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a potluck contribution. It pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a simple soup. You can also serve it on a bed of greens for a more substantial salad.

Storage:

Store leftover spelt apple salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may become slightly softer over time, but it will still be delicious.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do! It’s a healthy, flavorful, and satisfying salad that’s perfect for any occasion.

Conclusion:

This Spelt Apple Salad isn’t just another salad; it’s a vibrant celebration of textures and flavors that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized. From the nutty chewiness of the spelt to the crisp sweetness of the apples, and the delightful crunch of the toasted walnuts, every bite is a mini-adventure for your taste buds. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it’s incredibly versatile, surprisingly easy to make, and packed with wholesome ingredients that you can feel good about eating. It’s the perfect balance of healthy and delicious, making it a winner in my book!

But don’t just take my word for it! The real magic happens when you bring your own creativity to the table. Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties – Honeycrisp for extra sweetness, Granny Smith for a tart kick, or Fuji for a balanced flavor profile. You could even add a handful of dried cranberries or raisins for an extra burst of sweetness and chewiness.

Serving suggestions are endless! This Spelt Apple Salad makes a fantastic light lunch on its own, or it can be a delightful side dish to grilled chicken, fish, or even a hearty veggie burger. I especially love serving it alongside roasted pork tenderloin – the sweetness of the apples complements the savory meat perfectly. For a more substantial meal, consider adding some crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese for a creamy, tangy element.

And if you’re looking to take this salad to the next level, try these variations:

Spice it Up:

Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dressing for a warm, comforting flavor. A dash of cayenne pepper can also add a subtle kick.

Go Green:

Toss in some baby spinach or arugula for added nutrients and a peppery bite.

Citrus Zing:

Replace the apple cider vinegar with lemon or orange juice for a brighter, more citrusy flavor.

Nutty Goodness:

Experiment with different nuts like pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts. Toasting them beforehand enhances their flavor and adds a satisfying crunch.

Creamy Dreamy:

Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream to the dressing for a creamier texture.

I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s a fantastic way to incorporate more whole grains into your diet and enjoy the bounty of fresh, seasonal apples. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, and family gatherings.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece! I’m so excited for you to experience the deliciousness of this Spelt Apple Salad.

Once you’ve tried it, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you make any modifications? What did you serve it with? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below – I can’t wait to see your creations! Happy cooking!