Craving summer flavors? discover zehnder’s cherry salad recipe for a refreshing treat

Indulge in the legendary Zehnder‘s Michigan Cherry Salad Recipe, a delectable summer staple that has captivated taste buds for generations. This iconic salad, crafted with fresh Michigan cherries, brings a burst of sweetness and local flavor to every table. Prepare to tantalize your senses with this easy-to-follow recipe, inspired by Zehnder’s renowned culinary expertise.

Ingredients:

• 1 bag (12 ounces) fresh Michigan cherries, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cherries: Pit and halve the fresh Michigan cherries. Set aside.
2. Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the halved cherries, chopped red onion, chopped celery, chopped walnuts, and dried cranberries.
3. Create the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper.
4. Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to coat.
5. Add the Blue Cheese: Sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese over the top of the salad.
6. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish the salad with additional fresh cherry halves or chopped walnuts for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.

Tips for the Perfect Salad:

• Use Fresh Cherries: Fresh Michigan cherries are key to the authentic Zehnder’s experience. If fresh cherries are unavailable, frozen or canned cherries can be used as a substitute.
• Pit the Cherries Properly: Pitting the cherries can be time-consuming, but it’s worth the effort for a delicious and hassle-free salad. Use a cherry pitter or a knife to remove the pits.
• Chill Before Serving: Chilling the salad allows the flavors to develop and become more pronounced.
• Adjust to Taste: Don’t be afraid to adjust the dressing ingredients to suit your preferences. Add more sugar for sweetness, more vinegar for tang, or more salt and pepper for a savory kick.

Variations on the Classic:

• Add Grilled Chicken: Enhance the salad by adding grilled chicken for a protein-packed meal.
• Use Different Nuts: Swap out the walnuts for almonds, pecans, or pistachios for a different flavor profile.
• Incorporate Fresh Herbs: Add chopped fresh parsley, cilantro, or mint to the salad for an extra burst of freshness.
• Try a Different Fruit: Substitute the dried cranberries with dried blueberries or chopped apples for a unique twist.

The Culinary Legacy of Zehnder’s

Zehnder’s Restaurant and Hotel in Frankenmuth, Michigan, has been a culinary institution for over 160 years. Their signature Michigan Cherry Salad has become a beloved tradition, enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. The recipe has been passed down through generations, ensuring that the authentic Zehnder‘s experience remains a cherished part of Michigan’s culinary heritage.

What People Want to Know

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the salad up to 24 hours ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Q: What type of blue cheese should I use?
A: Any type of blue cheese can be used, but I recommend a mild or medium-strength blue cheese to balance the sweetness of the cherries.
Q: Can I substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream?
A: Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
Q: What can I serve this salad with?
A: This salad can be served as a side dish or as a light lunch or dinner. Pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or a simple sandwich.
Q: How long will this salad keep in the refrigerator?
A: The salad will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.