This apple walnut salad combines crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, fresh greens, and a simple homemade dressing. It’s a fresh and flavorful side dish that works beautifully for fall lunches, family dinners, and holiday meals.
Why This Recipe Works
Sweet apples, crunchy walnuts, creamy feta, and fresh greens create a delicious mix of textures and flavors. A light honey Dijon dressing adds the perfect sweet and tangy finish.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 6 cups mixed greens
- 2 apples, thinly sliced
- ¾ cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced
For the Dressing
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
How to Make Apple Walnut Salad
1. Prepare the Dressing
Whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
2. Assemble the Salad
Add the mixed greens, sliced apples, walnuts, feta cheese, dried cranberries, and red onion to a large salad bowl.
3. Add the Dressing
Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
4. Serve
Serve immediately while the greens and apples are fresh and crisp.
Tips for the Best Apple Walnut Salad
- Use crisp apples such as Honeycrisp, Gala, or Granny Smith.
- Toast the walnuts for a deeper, richer flavor.
- Add the dressing just before serving to prevent soggy greens.
- Swap feta for goat cheese if you prefer a creamier flavor.
- Add sliced pears for another seasonal variation.
Final Thoughts
This apple walnut salad is crisp, colorful, and easy to prepare. The combination of sweet apples, crunchy walnuts, tangy feta, and honey Dijon dressing makes it a delicious side dish for everyday meals or fall and holiday gatherings.
