Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Apple Salad is packed with flavor and texture. The sweetness of the apples pairs beautifully with the crunch of walnuts or pecans, and the tangy dressing adds the perfect balance. It’s versatile, vibrant, and easy to customize with your favorite fruits, nuts, and greens. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some healthy fruits and nuts into your diet without sacrificing taste!

Ingredients

4 medium apples (preferably a mix of sweet and tart, such as Gala or Granny Smith)
1 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins
2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, or a salad blend)
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Start by preparing the apples. Core and slice them into thin wedges or cubes, depending on your preference.
In a large mixing bowl, toss the sliced apples with the mixed greens, red onion, dried cranberries (or raisins), and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Sprinkle the chopped walnuts or pecans over the top and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Nuts: Swap walnuts or pecans with almonds, cashews, or even sunflower seeds for a different crunch.
Cheese: Try goat cheese or blue cheese for a tangier twist.
Fruits: Add sliced pears, grapes, or even orange segments for additional fruity flavors.
Greens: Feel free to mix and match different salad greens, such as romaine, kale, or mixed baby greens.
Dressing: If you prefer a creamy dressing, use a mix of Greek yogurt and honey or mustard in place of the vinaigrette.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the apples can turn brown after being mixed with the dressing. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. It’s best to store the dressing separately and add it when you’re ready to serve to maintain the salad’s crispness.

FAQs

How can I prevent the apples from browning?

To prevent the apples from turning brown, you can toss them in a little lemon juice before mixing them into the salad. This will help keep them fresh and vibrant.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

For best results, it’s recommended to prepare this salad shortly before serving to preserve the freshness of the apples. However, you can prep the ingredients (chop the apples, nuts, and cheese) and store them separately in the fridge, then assemble just before serving.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes! This Apple Salad is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure all the ingredients (such as the nuts and dried fruit) are gluten-free.

Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Yes, you can use balsamic vinegar, white wine vinegar, or even lemon juice as a substitute for apple cider vinegar. Each will bring its own flavor profile to the salad.

Can I skip the cheese in the recipe?

Absolutely! You can skip the cheese to make the salad dairy-free, or substitute it with a dairy-free alternative like vegan feta.

What kind of apples should I use for this salad?

Any crisp, slightly tart apples will work great for this salad. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala apples are all fantastic options.

Can I add protein to the salad?

Yes! You can easily add protein to make the salad a more complete meal. Try adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

How can I make the dressing sweeter?

If you like a sweeter dressing, simply add more honey or maple syrup to taste. You can also use a sweetened vinaigrette if preferred.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

While dried cranberries provide a lovely chew and sweetness, fresh cranberries can be quite tart. If you prefer fresh cranberries, you might want to sweeten them slightly by mixing them with sugar or honey before adding them to the salad.

Can I use a different type of greens?

Absolutely! If you prefer, you can swap the mixed greens with arugula, baby spinach, or even a crisp lettuce like romaine.

Conclusion

This Apple Salad is a versatile, vibrant dish that brings together a perfect combination of textures and flavors. It’s light yet satisfying, making it an excellent side dish or a healthy lunch option. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it on your own, this salad is sure to impress with its fresh ingredients and tangy dressing.