Savannah Chopped Salad from McAlister's Deli features chopped romaine lettuce, diced turkey, smoked Gouda cheese, apples, craisins, toasted pecans, and honey mustard dressing, offering a colorful, crunchy, and tangy taste experience.
Equipments
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Salad spinner
- Large mixing bowl
- Salad tongs or mixing spoons
- Small bowl (for dressing)
- Whisk (for dressing)
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 1 head romaine lettuce
- 1 cup diced turkey breast
- 1/2 cup smoked Gouda cheese, diced
- 1 medium apple, diced
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries (craisins)
- 1/4 cup toasted pecans
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Salt
- Black pepper
When preparing the Savannah Chopped Salad, ensure your romaine lettuce is thoroughly washed and dried using a salad spinner to maintain crispness. Choose smoked Gouda cheese for its distinct smoky flavor that complements the sweet apple and tangy honey mustard dressing. Fresh, diced turkey breast adds protein, but you can substitute with cooked chicken if preferred. Toasted pecans enhance the crunch factor and should be lightly warmed to bring out their nutty aroma. Your homemade version of the Savannah Chopped Salad from McAlister's Deli will capture the same colorful, crunchy, and tangy balance found in the original deli menu.
Instructions
- Wash and dry the romaine lettuce using the salad spinner.
- Chop the romaine lettuce on the cutting board.
- Dice the turkey breast, smoked Gouda cheese, and apple using the chef’s knife.
- Toast the pecans if not already toasted.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, diced turkey, diced smoked Gouda, diced apple, craisins, and toasted pecans.
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper to make the honey mustard dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients.
- Toss the salad gently with salad tongs or mixing spoons until well mixed and evenly coated.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Savannah Chopped Salad from McAlister's Deli copycat menu can be easily adapted by substituting smoked Gouda cheese with sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack for a similar creamy texture and mild flavor. If turkey breast is unavailable, grilled chicken or roasted turkey slices work well as protein alternatives. You can replace dried cranberries with raisins or chopped dried cherries to maintain the sweet-tart element. When fresh apples are not in season, pears provide a comparable crunch and subtle sweetness. To customize your honey mustard dressing, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter option without compromising creaminess.
Tips
Make sure to thoroughly dry the romaine lettuce with a salad spinner to prevent the dressing from becoming watery. Toast the pecans gently over low heat or in a toaster oven to enhance their crunch and flavor without burning. When dicing the apple and turkey, try to cut them into uniform pieces for even distribution and a better texture in every bite. Your honey mustard dressing should be whisked until smooth and well blended to coat the salad ingredients evenly without clumping.
Nutritions
Savannah Chopped Salad from McAlister's Deli provides a balance of macronutrients with protein from diced turkey breast and healthy fats from toasted pecans. The romaine lettuce and apple add fiber and essential vitamins like vitamin A and C, while smoked Gouda cheese contributes calcium and additional protein. Dried cranberries supply antioxidants and natural sweetness, complemented by the honey mustard dressing which adds both flavor and a small amount of sugar. Your meal offers a nutrient-rich combination supporting satiety and overall health.
Storage
Store your Savannah Chopped Salad in an airtight container to maintain freshness, especially keeping the dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent sogginess. Refrigerate at or below 40degF (4degC) and consume within 1 to 2 days for optimal taste and texture. Place a paper towel on top of the salad to absorb excess moisture and extend crispness.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap smoked Gouda with sharp cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor profile. Substitute turkey breast with grilled chicken or tofu to cater to dietary preferences. Try adding chopped celery or radishes for extra crunch, or drizzle balsamic glaze instead of honey mustard dressing to boost tanginess. Toasting pecans can be replaced by walnuts or almonds to vary the nutty texture.
Allergies
The Savannah Chopped Salad contains common allergens such as dairy from the smoked Gouda cheese and mayonnaise, as well as tree nuts in the toasted pecans. Individuals with milk or nut allergies should exercise caution when consuming this salad. Your sensitivity to these ingredients might require modifications or avoidance to ensure safety.
Why this recipe?
Savannah Chopped Salad from McAlister's Deli features a fresh blend of chopped romaine, bacon, cheddar cheese, and egg, combined with tomatoes and croutons for a satisfying crunch. The unique combination of flavors and textures offers a balanced, hearty meal that appeals to those seeking a flavorful yet healthy option. Making a copycat version at home allows you to customize ingredients to your preference and enjoy a restaurant-quality salad without the wait. Your taste buds will appreciate the savory richness and fresh ingredients that make this salad stand out.