Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad Recipe

Discover a vibrant salad that brings together crisp Honeycrisp apples, tangy dried cranberries, creamy feta cheese, and toasted walnuts, tossed with fresh greens. The mix is enhanced by a subtly sweet dressing making it a versatile side dish that balances textures and flavors for a satisfying autumn inspired meal experience.

I love making this Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad during the crisp autumn months because its simple yet nutritious ingredients bring a fresh flavor to any meal. I start by thinly slicing 2 Honeycrisp apples and toss them with 1/2 cup dried cranberries that add a perfect sweetness.

Adding 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese not only enhances the taste but provides a good source of protein and calcium. I also include 1/2 cup toasted walnuts which supply healthy fats and a crunchy texture.

I usually lay the mix over 4 cups of mixed greens and finish it off with a tangy dressing made of 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, a teaspoon of honey, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper for balance. This salad is a delicious, nutrient dense side dish that fits right into a healthy taste and is great for family gatherings or a light meal.

Why I Like this Recipe

I really like this recipe bc it gives me a perfect mix of sweet and savory flavors. I mean theres the juicy crisp apples and the tangy dried cranberries that perfectly mix with the salty feta cheese, and that really hits my taste buds. Plus, the crunch from the toasted walnuts makes it all fun to chew – its like every bite is surprising and flavorful.

Another thing is that its super easy to make. Even when im in a rush, I can whip it up bc theres not much fuss and the ingredients come together so nicely. The dressing, with apple cider vinegar and a touch of honey, really ties all the flavors together without being too over the top.

Finally, i love how healthy this salad feels. Even though its a side dish, its packed with a bunch of fresh fruits and greens that make me feel good about eating it. Its a chill way to add a bit of crisp, autumn vibe to any meal without a lot of hassle.

Ingredients

• Crunchy Honeycrisp apples are high in fibre and naturally sweet, adding a crisp bite.
• Tart and sweet dried cranberries brings antioxidants and a vibrant burst of flavor.
• Creamy, salty feta cheese add protein and tang while keepin the dish balanced.
• Toasted walnuts offer healthy fats, fibre and extra crunch for a nutty texture.
• Fresh mixed greens supply vitamins and a mild bite to freshen up the salad.
• Zesty apple cider vinegar gives a tang that brightens flavors and aids digestion.
• Olive oil and honey mix creates a smooth, balanced dressing with a slight sweetness.
• A pinch of salt and pepper enhances every natural flavour perfectly.
• Overall, this refreshing salad is a nutrient-packed blend that balances sweetness, tang and crunch.

Ingredient Quantities

• 2 Honeycrisp apples, cored and thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped and toasted
• 4 cups mixed greens (or baby spinach)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make this

1. Start by coring and thinly slicing the Honeycrisp apples into rounds and then cut them into bite-sized pieces.

2. Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes until they are lightly browned, stirring constantly so they dont burn.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

4. In a larger salad bowl, combine the sliced apples, dried cranberries, crumbled feta cheese, and toasted walnuts.

5. Add the mixed greens (or baby spinach) to the bowl with the rest of the ingredients.

6. Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad mixture.

7. Gently toss the salad until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.

8. Taste the salad and adjust the salt and pepper, if needed.

9. Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

10. Serve the salad as a side dish and enjoy it alongside your favorite meal.

Equipment Needed

1. Knife
2. Cutting board
3. Skillet for toasting walnuts
4. Small bowl for mixing the dressing
5. Whisk
6. Large salad bowl
7. Measuring cups and spoons
8. Spatula or large spoon for tossing the salad

FAQ

Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• Instead of Honeycrisp apples use Granny Smith or Gala apples. They give a similar crisp bite.
• If you can’t find dried cranberries try chopped dried cherries or even raisins. They each bring a sweet tang but might be a bit different in texture.
• You can swap feta cheese with crumbled goat cheese or even blue cheese. Blue cheese adds a stronger flavor, so use sparingly.
• If walnuts ain’t available, roughly chopped pecans or almonds are a good choice. Just toast them first to bring out their flavor.
• For apple cider vinegar try substituting with lemon juice or balsamic vinegar. They will change the tang a bit but still works pretty well.

Pro Tips

Try using a little lemon juice on the apple slices to help keep them from browning and to add an extra pop of flavor; sometimes a bit of citrus really makes a difference.

Make sure to toast the walnuts on medium heat and keep an eye on them because they can burn real quick if you get distracted; burnt nuts can ruin the whole vibe of the salad.

Mix your dressing ingredients in a small jar and give it a good shake instead of whisking it by hand every time; it saves time and sometimes creates a better blend of flavors.

After you toss everything together, let the salad sit for a few minutes before eating; this helps all the flavors meld together a bit better and makes every bite taste more balanced.