Description
A fresh and vibrant Autumn Apple Walnut Salad featuring crisp mixed greens, tart and sweet apple slices, toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, and optional creamy feta or goat cheese, all tossed in a luscious maple Dijon vinaigrette. Perfect for a light lunch or a healthy side, this salad combines seasonal flavors and textures in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or your preferred mix)
- 2 apples, thinly sliced (Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness)
- 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional but recommended)
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
Maple Dijon Vinaigrette
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then set aside to allow flavors to meld.
- Toast the Walnuts: Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped walnuts and toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until they become fragrant and slightly golden. Remove from heat and let them cool completely.
- Slice the Apples: Thinly slice the apples using a sharp knife or mandoline. To prevent browning, optionally toss the slices in lemon juice right after slicing.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced apples, toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, and thinly sliced red onions. If desired, sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese over the top for added creaminess.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the prepared maple Dijon vinaigrette over the assembled salad. Gently toss using tongs or large spoons to coat all ingredients evenly without bruising the greens.
- Serve: Transfer the salad to individual plates or serve family-style in a large bowl. Enjoy immediately to maintain the crispness and freshness of all ingredients.
Notes
- To keep apple slices from browning, toss them in a little lemon juice right after slicing.
- Feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans if preferred.
- The cheese is optional; omit for a dairy-free version.
- For extra protein, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas.
- To make it vegan, omit the cheese and ensure the maple syrup is pure and unprocessed.
