Apple Walnut Salad

Introduction

This Apple Walnut Salad is a bright, crunchy bowl that feels like autumn on a plate. Sweet apple slices meet toasted walnuts and tangy feta for a salad that is simple yet full of personality. It comes together in minutes, making it perfect for a quick lunch or a colorful side for dinner. If you enjoy pairing apples with savory elements, you might also like this recipe for Apple Brie Stuffed Chicken.

Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

This salad is a great choice when you want something light but satisfying, especially when fresh greens are in season. The mix of textures makes every bite interesting from crisp apple to crunchy walnuts. It is easy to scale up for a gathering or keep modest for one or two servings, which makes it versatile for weeknight cooking. The dressing is intentionally simple so the ingredients can shine, and it takes seconds to whisk together. It pairs beautifully with roasted mains or a slice of hearty bread, and for a cozy breakfast-for-dinner idea, try it alongside Apple Pie French Toast Casserole. The colors also make it highly shareable on Pinterest or social feeds.

Flavor and Texture

The flavor profile balances sweet, salty, and tangy notes in a way that feels fresh rather than heavy. Apples bring a lively sweetness, dried cranberries add chewy bursts, and feta gives a creamy salty contrast. Toasted walnuts add earthiness and a satisfying snap to each forkful. The simple balsamic and olive oil dressing ties everything together without overpowering the main ingredients. It’s a salad that delights both the eyes and the palate with distinct layers of taste and feel.

Ingredients

• 2 cups mixed greens
• 1 apple, cored and sliced
• 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step by Step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, apple slices, walnuts, feta cheese, cranberries, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately.

Tips for Best Results

Choose a firm apple such as Honeycrisp or Gala so the slices stay crisp and hold their shape in the salad. Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet for a few minutes until fragrant to amplify their flavor, and let them cool before adding. Slice the red onion paper thin to keep its bite from overwhelming the other ingredients. If you want extra brightness, add a squeeze of lemon to the dressing before tossing. For a more substantial meal, add grilled chicken or a scoop of quinoa.

Storage and Make Ahead

Assemble components separately if you plan to store the salad. Keep greens and dressing separate to avoid sogginess and combine just before serving. Toasted walnuts and dried cranberries store well in an airtight container for days and can be added when ready to eat. Prepared salad with dressing can be kept for a short time but is best enjoyed within a few hours for peak texture.

Final Thought

This Apple Walnut Salad is an effortless way to add seasonal flair to your meals. It is colorful, crisp, and satisfying while still feeling light. With a few pantry staples you can create a dish that looks as good as it tastes and photographs beautifully for sharing.

Conclusion

For a similar take with more ingredient ideas or a different dressing, see this version at Apple Walnut Salad | Olive & Mango.

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