Description
A fresh and vibrant Apple Walnut Salad combining crisp mixed greens, sweet apples, crunchy toasted walnuts, and tangy dried cranberries, all brought together with a smooth, maple-mustard vinaigrette. This quick and easy salad is perfect as a light lunch or a refreshing side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
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, toss together the mixed greens, thinly sliced apples, toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, and crumbled feta cheese if using, ensuring the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is fully combined and emulsified, creating a smooth vinaigrette.
- Assemble the Salad: Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently but thoroughly to coat all the ingredients with the dressing without bruising the greens.
Notes
- Toast the walnuts lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant to enhance their flavor.
- For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or substitute with a plant-based alternative.
- Adjust the maple syrup quantity to modify the sweetness of the dressing according to your preference.
- Use any crisp apple variety like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala for the best texture and flavor.
- Serve immediately after dressing to keep the greens fresh and prevent sogginess.
