Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad

Description

Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad is a fresh, crisp, and slightly sweet salad that combines juicy apples, tart cranberries, and crunchy walnuts with leafy greens. Tossed in a light, tangy dressing, this salad offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures—sweet, nutty, and refreshing. It’s ideal as a healthy side dish, light lunch, or festive addition to holiday meals. Packed with nutrients and natural goodness, this salad is both delicious and nourishing.

Ingredients For the Salad:

4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or lettuce)
2 apples (thinly sliced, any variety)
½ cup dried cranberries
½ cup walnuts (toasted for best flavor)
¼ cup red onion (thinly sliced)
½ cup feta cheese (optional)

For the Dressing:
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Wash and dry the mixed greens thoroughly and place them in a large bowl.
Slice apples thinly and, if desired, toss them lightly in lemon juice to prevent browning.
Add cranberries, toasted walnuts, and sliced red onions to the bowl.
If using feta cheese, crumble it on top of the salad.
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.
Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly without crushing the apples or greens.
Serve immediately for the best freshness and texture.

Tips, Notes & Q&A

Use crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji for the best texture. Toast walnuts in a dry pan for 3–5 minutes to enhance flavor. Add grilled chicken for extra protein or swap feta with goat cheese for a creamier taste. Always add dressing just before serving to keep greens fresh.
Q: Can I make it ahead? Yes, prep ingredients separately and mix before serving.
Q: Can I use fresh cranberries? Dried are better for sweetness, but fresh can be used if chopped and sweetened.
Q: How to keep apples fresh? Toss in lemon juice to prevent browning.

Servings & Nutrition

Serves: 3–4 people
Calories: ~220–280 kcal per serving
Rich in fiber, healthy fats, and vitamins A & C