The Delicious World of Savory Apple Recipes
As the weather cools down and leaves start changing color, nothing sounds more appealing than indulging in cozy, hearty dishes. Apples are in peak season during fall, which gives us the perfect opportunity to explore creative new ways to enjoy this nutritious and delicious fruit. Instead of turning to the usual apple desserts, why not try incorporating apples into savory dishes? The sweet-tart flavor of apples pairs incredibly well with spices, pork, cheese and more. Read on to discover the health benefits of apples and seven savory recipes that will have you excited for sweater weather and all the cozy apple dishes it brings.
Nutritional Benefits of Apples
Before diving into recipes, let's take a look at why apples are such a nutritious addition to our diets. Apples are packed with important vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Some of the key nutrients found in apples include:
- Fiber - One medium apple contains 4 grams of fiber, helping you meet the recommended daily target of 25-30 grams. Fiber aids digestion, gut health and heart health.
- Vitamin C - A good source of immune-boosting vitamin C. One apple provides 14% of your daily needs.
- Quercetin - A flavonoid antioxidant that offers anti-inflammatory benefits and may help reduce risk of cancer, heart disease, respiratory conditions and more.
- Vitamin K - Plays a role in bone health and wound healing. Also contains smaller amounts of B-vitamins, potassium, copper and manganese.
Overall, the combination of vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants in apples may help reduce risk of many chronic conditions. Studies show apples may lower LDL cholesterol, support brain health in old age, improve gut bacteria and contribute to a healthy microbiome. The old saying about an apple a day keeping the doctor away seems to hold true!
Choosing the Best Apples for Cooking
With over 7,500 types of apples grown worldwide, how do you choose the best varieties for cooking? When held to heat, some apples fare better than others. The best apples for baking and cooking tend to be firm, tart and high in pectin. Recommended varieties include:
- Granny Smith - Tart and crisp, ideal for applesauce and baked goods. Hold shape when cooked.
- Honeycrisp - Pleasantly sweet-tart flavor. Soft flesh turns tender when baked.
- Braeburn - High acidity provides tangy sweet-tart flavor. Keeps some firmness when baked.
- Jonathan - Classic all-purpose apple. Provides balanced sweet-tart taste.
- Jonagold - Aromatic with honeyed sweetness. Softens significantly when cooked.
- Winesap - Distinctive winy tang. Sturdy texture for pies and sauces.
When using apples for savory dishes, go for firm, high-acid options like Granny Smiths. The tartness balances well with spices and meats. Now, let's dive into seven stellar savory apple recipes!
7 Savory Apple Recipes
1. Apple, Sausage and Kale Strata
This savory breakfast strata consists of apples, sausage, kale, bread and cheese layered together and baked until tender and delicious. The combination of sweet apples, savory sausage and earthy kale is perfectly balanced. It also packs in a serving of greens to start your day on a healthy note. Make it the night before and bake it in the morning for a crowd-pleasing weekend breakfast.
2. Butternut Squash and Apple Soup
Nothing hits the spot on a chilly day like a creamy bowl of soup. This recipe brings together fall flavors like roasted butternut squash, sauteed onions and tart apple slices. Seasoned with curry powder, ginger and cinnamon, it warms you from the inside out. Top it with toasted pumpkin seeds or pepitas for extra crunch.
3. Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese
Move over traditional cheese sandwiches, this gourmet spin on grilled cheese takes things to the next level.Slices of creamy brie and tart green apple are layered between two slices of crusty artisanal bread and pan-fried until melted and crispy. The interplay of sweet apple, rich cheese and toasty bread make this upscale, decadent comfort food.
4. Brussels Sprouts and Kale Salad with Apples
This colorful nutrient-packed salad brings together shredded raw Brussels sprouts and kale with thin apple slices and dried cranberries. Tossed in a bright lemon vinaigrette, it strikes the perfect balance of sweet, tart and savory. Top with roasted chicken or chickpeas to make it a full meal.
5. Apple CheddarHand Pies
Buttery, flaky hand pies are filled with sautéed apples, sharp cheddar and savory sage. They can be assembled ahead of time and baked off as needed, making them a handy appetizer for parties and potlucks. Offer them alongside a hearty soup or stew for a satisfying cool weather meal.
6. Apple and Squash Stuffed Pork Loin
This show-stopping roast pork loin is stuffed with a savory apple, butternut squash and sausage filling. Sliced apples dotted along the outside become deliciously caramelized during roasting. The tart apples perfectly accent the succulent, tender pork. Serve sliced with the apple-squash stuffing for an elegant main course.
7. Curried Apple Chicken Salad Wrap
Chicken salad gets a delicious new twist with the addition of tart green apples, seedless grapes, toasted almonds and curry powder. Wrapped in a whole wheat tortilla or stuffed into a pita pocket, it's a filling and nutritious lunch or light dinner option. The unique flavors make an old classic feel new again.
Satisfy Your Savory Side with Apple Recipes
These seven recipes only scratch the surface of the many delicious ways to enjoy apples in savory preparations. From salads to sandwiches, slaws, salsas, soups and beyond, apples pair wonderfully with pork, cheese, nuts, squash, greens and warm spices. As you cook your way through fall, look for new ways to highlight the bright, crisp tartness of apples in unexpected dishes. Your savory side will be wholly satisfied by these cozy, seasonal recipes.
FAQs
What are some good apple varieties to use in savory recipes?
For savory dishes, go for apples that are tart and hold their shape when cooked, like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Braeburn, Jonathan, Jonagold and Winesap.
What ingredients pair well with apples in savory dishes?
Apples pair wonderfully with pork, sausage, cheese, nuts, winter squash, kale, Brussels sprouts and warm spices like cinnamon, curry powder and ginger.
What are some ideas for savory apple recipes?
Some savory apple recipe ideas include: apple kale strata, butternut apple soup, brie apple grilled cheese, apple chicken salad wraps, roasted Brussels sprouts and apple salad, apple cheddar hand pies, stuffed pork loin with apples.
Why are apples good for you?
Apples are very nutritious, packed with fiber, vitamin C, antioxidants like quercetin, and nutrients like vitamin K, B vitamins, potassium, copper and manganese. They provide many health benefits.
Are savory apple dishes sweet?
Savory apple dishes focus more on the tart, crisp nature of apples vs. their sweetness. But the hint of sweetness still complements savory flavors nicely in recipes.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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