15 minutes
A refreshing salad featuring thinly sliced fall fruits and vegetables dressed in a tangy vinaigrette.
Cucumber, thinly sliced
each
Summer Squash, thinly sliced
each
Small Melon (Cavaillon), thinly sliced
0 lb
Gala Apple, thinly sliced
each
Grapes, halved or quartered
0 oz
Agresto (Verjuice)
0.25 fluid ounces
0.25 fluid ounces
Maldon Sea Salt, flaky
to taste
Black Pepper, coarsely ground
to taste
1. Prepare Fruits and Vegetables
Using a benriner or mandoline, slice one medium cucumber and two medium summer squash into uniform thin slices. Then, thinly slice a small melon (Cavaillon) and two Gala or McIntosh apples. Add twelve halved or quartered grapes to the bowl.
2. Make the Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, whisk together 60 milliliters of agresto (or another verjuice) and 60 milliliters of extra virgin olive oil. Season with Maldon sea salt and coarsely ground black pepper to taste.
3. Dress the Salad
Dress the salad with half of the prepared vinaigrette, tossing gently to ensure each slice is lightly coated. Transfer the salad to a serving bowl and drizzle the remaining vinaigrette over the top before serving.
Opt for a balanced mix of crisp and sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Pink Lady, and pears like Bosc for structure with Anjou for a juicier bite. Incorporate a firmer Asian pear for contrast, and ensure fruits are at optimal ripeness.
Assemble the salad just before serving and keep the fruits on a paper towel-lined tray in the fridge to prevent sogginess. Serve at cool room temperature for flavors to meld.
Use a bright, tangy component like apple cider vinegar or citrus juice in the dressing to counter sweetness and maintain vibrant colors. Infuse oils with herbs or ginger for subtle flavor layers.
Add toasted nuts such as hazelnuts or walnuts, and seeds like pepitas for crunchy elements. Include a creamy, savory contrast with mild blue cheese or aged gouda shavings.
Use fresh herbs like mint or tarragon, and a pinch of ground black pepper or cinnamon for aromatic twists that complement the fruits' sweetness.
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