Description
This Autumn Apple Walnut Salad is a vibrant and refreshing mix of crisp salad greens, sweet and tart apple slices, toasted walnuts, creamy feta or goat cheese, and a hint of sweetness from dried cranberries or raisins. Tossed in a tangy and slightly sweet apple cider vinaigrette, this salad is perfect as a light main course or a delightful side dish that captures the essence of fall flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as spinach, arugula, and romaine)
- 2 medium apples, cored and sliced (preferably a mix of sweet and tart varieties)
- 1 cup walnuts, toasted and coarsely chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
Dressing
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey or maple syrup. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Assemble the greens: In a large serving bowl, add the mixed salad greens. Gently arrange the apple slices over the greens to create a colorful presentation.
- Add walnuts and cheese: Sprinkle the toasted walnuts over the salad, followed by the crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy texture.
- Add dried fruit and onion: Add the dried cranberries or raisins for a touch of sweetness, and layer the thin slices of red onion on top for a bit of tang.
- Dress the salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad, using a spoon to ensure an even distribution. Toss gently until all the ingredients are lightly coated in dressing.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
- Serve: Serve the Autumn Apple Walnut Salad immediately as a refreshing side dish or a light main course.
Notes
- Toast the walnuts beforehand to enhance their flavor and crunch.
- Use a mix of sweet and tart apple varieties for balanced flavor.
- Substitute feta cheese with goat cheese if preferred for a different creamy taste.
- The salad is best served fresh to maintain the crispness of the greens and apples.
- Honey can be replaced with maple syrup to keep the dressing vegan-friendly.
