Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Seasonal Flavors: Incorporates fresh apples and maple syrup, capturing the essence of autumn.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s perfect for busy days.
- Versatile: Suitable as a side dish for holiday meals or as a standalone lunch.
Ingredients
- 5 oz spring mix greens (a blend of spinach, arugula, and romaine)
- 1 medium apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), thinly sliced
- 1 cup toasted walnuts
- 6 oz extra sharp cheddar cheese or feta cheese, cut into small chunks
- 1/4 cup sweetened dried cranberries
- 1/4 to 1/3 cup Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette (see recipe below)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a mason jar, combine 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil, 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons finely minced red onion, 1 teaspoon minced garlic, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper. Secure the lid and shake vigorously until well combined. Set aside.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, add the spring mix greens. Top with thinly sliced apples, toasted walnuts, cheese chunks, and dried cranberries.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle 1/4 to 1/3 cup of the prepared maple balsamic vinaigrette over the salad. Gently toss to ensure even coating.
- Serve: Divide the salad into individual portions and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields 4 servings.
- Preparation Time: Approximately 10 minutes.
Variations
- Nuts: Substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
- Cheese: Replace cheddar with blue cheese or goat cheese to alter the taste profile.
- Fruits: Add pear slices or pomegranate arils for additional sweetness and texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: For optimal freshness, it’s best to consume the salad immediately after preparation. However, if you need to store it, keep the components separate: store the greens, toppings, and dressing in individual airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: This salad is intended to be served cold and does not require reheating.
FAQs
What type of apples work best in this salad?
Crisp and slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal for this salad, providing a balanced sweetness and crunch.
Can I prepare the dressing in advance?
Yes, the maple balsamic vinaigrette can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a month. Shake well before use.
How can I prevent the apples from browning?
Toss the apple slices in a bit of lemon juice or the dressing to slow oxidation, or slice them just before serving.
Is there a substitute for maple syrup in the dressing?
Honey can be used as an alternative to maple syrup, offering a different yet pleasant sweetness.
Can I make this salad dairy-free?
Absolutely, omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative to make the salad dairy-free.
What other dressings pair well with this salad?
A creamy poppy seed dressing or a simple lemon vinaigrette would also complement the flavors nicely.
How do I toast walnuts at home?
Place walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently for about 5-7 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned.
Can I add protein to make it a complete meal?
Yes, grilled chicken, turkey, or tofu can be added to enhance the protein content, making it more filling.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this salad is vegetarian-friendly, especially when using plant-based cheese alternatives if preferred.
How can I make the salad more festive for holidays?
Incorporate ingredients like pomegranate seeds, candied nuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon to add a festive touch.
Conclusion
This Apple Walnut Salad is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, embodying the essence of fall. Its quick preparation and versatility make it a go-to recipe for both everyday meals and special occasions. Enjoy the crispness of fresh apples, the crunch of toasted walnuts, and the tangy sweetness of maple balsamic dressing in every bite.
Apple Walnut Salad
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Apple Walnut Salad Recipe: A crisp, flavorful salad featuring fresh apples, toasted walnuts, sharp cheddar, and sweet dried cranberries on a bed of greens, drizzled with a tangy maple balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for fall gatherings or a light, wholesome lunch.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 5 oz spring mix greens (spinach, arugula, romaine blend)
- 1 medium apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), thinly sliced
- 1 cup toasted walnuts
- 6 oz extra sharp cheddar cheese or feta cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup sweetened dried cranberries
- 1/4 to 1/3 cup Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette
For the Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette:
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp finely minced red onion
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp ground pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing:
- Combine all vinaigrette ingredients in a mason jar. Shake well until emulsified. Set aside.
- Assemble the Salad:
- Place spring mix greens in a large bowl. Add apple slices, toasted walnuts, cheese, and cranberries.
- Dress the Salad:
- Drizzle the desired amount of maple balsamic vinaigrette over the salad. Toss gently to coat.
- Serve:
- Divide into individual servings and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- For extra freshness, keep the dressing and salad components separate until ready to serve.
- Substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for variety.
- To prevent apples from browning, toss them in lemon juice or the vinaigrette before assembling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: salad
- Method: Tossing
- Cuisine: American
