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
