Apple, Bacon and Goat Cheese Salad

Method

1. To make the walnuts, line a half-sheet pan with parchment or silicone liner. Combine sugar and butter in medium sauté pan. Cook over medium heat until butter is melted. Using a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula, stir in cinnamon and walnuts, coating evenly with sugar mixture.  Continue cooking until sugar is completely dissolved and mixture coats walnuts evenly and turns golden brown, about 5-8 minutes. Pour nuts onto lined sheet pan. (Use caution as sugar mixture is extremely hot and can cause burns.) As nuts cool, separate into small chunks and reserve.
2. To make the vinaigrette, whisk apple butter and vinegar in a large mixing bowl. Stir in salt and pepper. Whisk in olive oil until mixture is emulsified. Adjust seasoning.
3. To make the salads, place on each plate about 1 cup greens, 4 slices apple, 1 ounce goat cheese and about 1 Tablespoon bacon. Sprinkle with candied walnuts and serve with 2 ounces vinaigrette.