If you are looking for a fresh, vibrant dish that’s bursting with texture and flavor, this Apple Walnut Salad with Cranberries and Feta Recipe is an absolute must-try. It perfectly balances crisp apples, crunchy toasted walnuts, tart dried cranberries, and creamy feta, all tossed with a light, tangy dressing. This salad is not only a colorful feast for your eyes but also a delightful harmony of sweet, salty, and savory notes, making it a fantastic addition to any meal or a satisfying light lunch on its own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Apple Walnut Salad with Cranberries and Feta Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the base of fresh mixed greens that provide a tender, leafy bite to the toasted walnuts that add a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor. The apples bring a refreshing sweetness, while the cranberries and feta introduce a lovely tartness and creaminess that elevate the entire dish.
- 6 cups mixed greens: Use a combination like spinach, arugula, or romaine for a flavorful and colorful base.
- 2 apples, thinly sliced: Crisp and juicy apples give the salad a fresh and sweet contrast.
- 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted: Toasting enhances the nuts’ flavor and adds a satisfying crunch.
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries: These provide a burst of tart sweetness that balances the savory elements.
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional): Adds a creamy, salty touch that complements the other flavors beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for a rich dressing base.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: This gives the dressing a bright, tangy note.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Provides depth and helps emulsify the dressing.
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup: Adds a hint of natural sweetness to balance the acidity.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring out all the flavors.
How to Make Apple Walnut Salad with Cranberries and Feta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Salad
Start by grabbing a large salad bowl and combining your mixed greens with the thinly sliced apples, toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, and crumbled feta cheese if you’re using it. This combination brings a wonderful variety of textures and tastes that blend perfectly in every bite.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt, and black pepper. The key here is to whisk until everything is fully combined and the dressing is slightly emulsified, creating a silky coating that will cling to each ingredient beautifully.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine everything. Tossing gently ensures each leaf and piece of apple is lightly dressed without bruising the delicate greens or crushing the nuts.
How to Serve Apple Walnut Salad with Cranberries and Feta Recipe
Garnishes
Consider adding a few extras to take this salad to the next level. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a tiny handful of extra toasted walnuts on top adds an inviting crunch and aroma. A few thin apple slices as a garnish on the plate’s edge can make your presentation pop with color and freshness.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. Serve it alongside roasted chicken or grilled salmon to balance rich protein with fresh greens. It’s also fantastic as a light side to some hearty soups or grain bowls, bringing brightness and crunch to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, serve the salad in individual glass bowls to showcase its colorful ingredients. You can also layer it in a large mason jar for a vibrant, grab-and-go lunch option. Lastly, try piling the salad atop toasted baguette slices for a creative bruschetta twist that’s perfect for entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This helps keep the greens crisp and prevents the apples from becoming soggy. The nuts will stay crunchy, and the flavors will remain fresh for up to two days.
Freezing
This Apple Walnut Salad with Cranberries and Feta Recipe is not suitable for freezing because the greens and apples lose their texture and become mushy. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a couple of days refrigerated.
Reheating
Since this is a fresh, cold salad, reheating isn’t necessary or recommended. If you want a warm element, try warming a separate protein side or toasting the walnuts just before serving to revive their crunch.
FAQs
Can I substitute the apples with another fruit?
Absolutely! Pears work beautifully as a softer alternative, bringing a subtle sweetness that pairs well with the walnuts and cranberries. Just make sure to slice them thinly to maintain the salad’s delicate texture.
Is feta cheese necessary for the salad?
Feta is optional but highly recommended if you enjoy a creamy, tangy contrast in your salad. If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can omit it or try a vegan cheese alternative to keep that rich flavor profile.
How do I toast walnuts properly?
To toast walnuts, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in a preheated 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning, and let them cool before adding to the salad.
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time for a party?
You can prepare the components ahead of time but combine the salad and dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp. Storing ingredients separately is key to maintaining the best texture.
What type of vinegar works best in the dressing?
Apple cider vinegar is ideal for its mild acidity and fruity undertones that complement the apples perfectly. However, you can experiment with white wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar for different flavor profiles.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Walnut Salad with Cranberries and Feta Recipe is a deliciously simple way to brighten your table with fresh, wholesome ingredients and bold flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a stunning side for dinner, this salad will quickly become a favorite. I encourage you to give it a try and enjoy the delightful blend of textures and tastes it brings to every bite!
Print
Apple Walnut Salad with Cranberries and Feta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and vibrant Apple Walnut Salad that combines crisp mixed greens, sweet apples, toasted walnuts, and dried cranberries, all tossed in a tangy homemade dressing. This easy-to-make salad is perfect for a light, nutritious meal or side dish, enhanced with optional crumbled feta cheese for added creaminess.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 6 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or romaine)
- 2 apples, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Dressing Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, thinly sliced apples, toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, and crumbled feta cheese if you are using it. Toss gently to mix all the ingredients evenly.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt and black pepper until the dressing is fully emulsified and smooth.
- Assemble the Salad: Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients thoroughly without bruising the greens, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Notes
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently to enhance their flavor.
- The salad is best served immediately to keep the greens crisp.
- Feta cheese is optional but adds a nice creamy texture and tang.
- You can substitute maple syrup with honey or agave nectar.
- For a nuttier flavor, consider using toasted pecans or almonds instead of walnuts.
