Apple Walnut Salad
Looking for a fresh and flavorful salad? This Apple Walnut Salad is packed with crisp apples, toasted walnuts, and a tangy homemade dressing for the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. It’s easy to make in just 10 minutes and makes a healthy side dish or light meal.Try it for lunch, dinner, or even a holiday gathering! Save this recipe for later and enjoy a nutritious, crunchy salad anytime.
Equipment
- 1 large salad bowl
- 1 small mixing bowl (for dressing)
- 1 Whisk
- 1 Sharp Knife
- 1 Cutting board
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2 medium apples Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice to prevent browning
- 4 cups mixed greens spinach, arugula, or romaine
- ½ cup walnuts toasted and roughly chopped
- ¼ cup dried cranberries optional
- ¼ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese optional
For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- ½ tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Wash, core, and thinly slice the apples.Toss them in lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Toast the walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Let them cool.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- In a large salad bowl, add the mixed greens.
- Scatter the apple slices, toasted walnuts, and dried cranberries over the top.
- If using, sprinkle with feta or goat cheese for extra creaminess.
Step 4: Toss and Serve
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Apple Selection: Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Granny Smith apples provide the best balance of sweetness and crunch.
- Nut Substitutions: Swap walnuts for pecans, almonds, or pumpkin seeds if desired.
- Make it a Meal: Add grilled chicken or quinoa for extra protein.
- Dressing Alternative: Try a balsamic vinaigrette or a creamy poppy seed dressing for a different flavor twist.
- Storage Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Keep the dressing separate to maintain freshness.
