Searching for creative recipe ideas that elevate your side dishes? This Apple Walnut Salad is a stunning centerpiece, combining vibrant fall flavors, satisfying textures, and eye-catching colors. With crisp apples, toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, and tangy cheese, all drizzled with a maple balsamic vinaigrette, this salad is the perfect blend of sweet, tart, and savory.
Ingredients for Apple Walnut Salad
- 5 oz spring mixed greens (e.g., spinach, arugula, romaine)
- 2 cups (1 medium) Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apple, thinly sliced
- 1 cup toasted walnuts
- 6 oz extra sharp cheddar or feta cheese, cut into chunks
- 1/4 cup sweetened dried cranberries
- 1/4 to 1/3 cup Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette (see below)
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 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp ground pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dressing
- Combine all vinaigrette ingredients in a mason jar.
- Secure the lid and shake until emulsified and creamy.
- Set aside to let the flavors develop as you prepare the salad.
2. Assemble the Salad
- Spread the mixed greens on a large serving platter or in a bowl.
- Layer thinly sliced apples on top of the greens.
- Sprinkle with toasted walnuts, cheese chunks, and dried cranberries.
3. Add Dressing and Serve
- Drizzle 1/4 cup (or more to taste) of the maple balsamic dressing over the salad.
- Gently toss to coat the ingredients.
- Serve immediately, with extra dressing on the side for guests.
Tip: Store leftover dressing in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Substitutions and Variations
- Nuts: Use pecans, almonds, or candied nuts like maple-glazed walnuts.
- Cheese: Swap cheddar or feta for blue cheese, goat cheese, or gorgonzola.
- Greens: Experiment with red leaf lettuce, baby kale, or butter lettuce.
- Dressing Adjustments: Substitute balsamic vinegar with apple cider vinegar or maple syrup with honey.
- Extra Flavor: Add thinly sliced red onion for a zesty kick.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Salad
- Prevent Browning: Slice apples just before serving or toss them in the dressing to slow oxidation.
- Keep Greens Crisp: Add dressing right before serving to avoid soggy lettuce.
- Cool Walnuts: If toasting at home, let walnuts cool fully before adding them to the salad.
FAQ
What apples work best in salads?
Firm, crisp apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, Granny Smith, or Pink Lady are ideal. Their slight tartness balances the sweetness of the other ingredients.
How do I keep apples from browning?
Slice apples close to serving time or toss them in a little dressing. The vinegar in the dressing helps preserve their freshness.
Can this salad be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dressing days in advance and store it in the fridge. Combine greens, walnuts, cheese, and cranberries in an airtight container, and add the apples and dressing right before serving.
This Apple Walnut Salad is a versatile dish that works for casual dinners, festive holiday spreads, or potlucks. Whether you’re brainstorming recipe ideas for fall or looking for a salad that’s equal parts delicious and beautiful, this is a must-try addition to your menu.