Apple Walnut Salad

A refreshing and vibrant salad that combines crisp apple slices, toasted walnuts, and mixed greens, all brought together by a tangy homemade vinaigrette. This dish offers a delightful balance of sweet, nutty, and savory flavors in each bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Harmonious blend of textures and flavors: crunchy apples, toasted walnuts, and tender greens

• Quick and simple to prepare—ready in just 15 minutes

• Versatile enough for a light lunch, elegant side dish, or picnic offering

• Easily customizable to suit dietary preferences or ingredient availability

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 cups mixed salad greens (for example, arugula, spinach, romaine)

• 2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), cored and thinly sliced

• ½ cup walnut halves, toasted

• ¼ cup dried cranberries

• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon honey

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Toast the walnuts. Place walnut halves in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently for 3–5 minutes until they become fragrant and lightly golden. Transfer to a plate to cool.

2. Prepare the apples. Core and thinly slice the apples; if desired, toss immediately with a few drops of lemon juice to prevent browning.

3. Make the dressing. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until the mixture is emulsified.

4. Assemble the salad. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, apple slices, toasted walnuts, and dried cranberries.

5. Dress and toss. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

6. Add cheese and serve. Sprinkle crumbled feta over the top and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Substitute goat cheese or shaved Parmesan for feta.

• Swap walnuts for pecans, almonds, or pistachios.

• Add thinly sliced red onion or shallot for a mild allium note.

• Incorporate fresh herbs such as chopped parsley, mint, or basil.

• Replace dried cranberries with raisins or dried cherries for a different sweetness profile.

Storage/Reheating

Salads of this nature are best enjoyed fresh. To store leftovers:

• Keep the dressing separate from the salad components in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

• Store the greens and toppings in a separate airtight container; reassemble and toss just before serving.

• Reheating is not recommended, as it will wilt the greens and alter the texture.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare this salad in advance?

You can toast the walnuts and slice the apples up to one day ahead, keeping them refrigerated separately. Wait to toss with greens and dressing until just before serving to maintain optimal texture.

2. What apple varieties work best?

Crisp, slightly tart apples such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady provide the ideal balance against the sweet and savory elements of the salad.

3. Can I use other nuts?

Yes. Pecans, almonds, or even pistachios make excellent substitutes. Simply toast them as directed for similar crunch and flavor.

4. Is there a dairy-free option?

Omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative. The salad remains flavorful thanks to the nuts and vinaigrette.

5. How can I make the dressing sweeter?

Increase the honey to 1½ teaspoons, or substitute with maple syrup for a richer sweetness.

6. Can I add protein to make it a more substantial meal?

Grilled chicken breast, seared salmon, or pan-fried tofu can be added atop the salad to boost protein content and turn it into a complete entrée.

7. How do I store any leftovers?

Keep the dressing and salad components in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. Combine them only when you are ready to eat.

8. What if I do not have Dijon mustard?

You may use yellow mustard in its place, though the flavor will be milder. Alternatively, omit the mustard, but whisk the oil and lemon juice vigorously to emulsify.

9. Can I incorporate fresh herbs?

Certainly. Finely chopped parsley, mint, or basil can elevate the salad with additional aroma and freshness.

10. How can I adjust the acidity of the dressing?

Modify the ratio of olive oil to lemon juice to taste—use more oil for a milder dressing or more lemon juice for greater tartness.

Conclusion

This apple walnut salad is an effortless yet elegant dish that marries fresh produce, toasted nuts, and a bright vinaigrette. Perfect for any season and occasion, it can be adapted to suit personal tastes and dietary needs. With minimal preparation time and maximum flavor impact, it will quickly become a staple in your recipe repertoire

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