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Apple Walnut Salad

Maria G. Brooks
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.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 220 kcal

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.
Keyword Apple Walnut Salad