Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad Recipe

Autumn’s vibrant colors and crisp air inspire this delightful Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad Recipe. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors, a perfect starter for a Thanksgiving feast, a light lunch, or a satisfying side dish any time of year. Imagine the sweet and tart burst of cranberries, the satisfying crunch of walnuts, and the juicy sweetness of crisp apples all tossed together in a light and tangy dressing. This isn’t just a salad; it’s an experience. It’s the kind of recipe that will make you want to gather your friends and family around the table, sharing stories and laughter while savoring each delicious bite. This Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad Recipe is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of the season’s bounty, a simple yet elegant dish that elevates any meal. This detailed guide will walk you through every step, ensuring you create a salad that’s both visually stunning and incredibly delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad Recipe

This Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad Recipe is a winner for so many reasons! First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. With minimal prep work and readily available ingredients, you can whip up this delicious salad in minutes. It’s the perfect recipe for busy weeknights or when you need a quick and healthy meal option. The combination of sweet, tart, and crunchy elements creates a truly unforgettable flavor profile. The sweetness of the apples and maple syrup beautifully complements the tartness of the cranberries and the tangy apple cider vinegar. The crunchy walnuts add a delightful textural contrast, making each bite a delightful adventure for your taste buds. The optional feta cheese adds a salty and creamy element that elevates the salad to new heights. Furthermore, this salad is incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the ingredients to your liking, substituting different types of apples, nuts, or greens, making it a customizable recipe that caters to every preference.

Beyond its taste and ease of preparation, this Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad is incredibly healthy. Packed with vitamins and antioxidants from the apples, cranberries, and mixed greens, it’s a nutritious choice that nourishes your body while satisfying your cravings. Apples are a great source of fiber, while cranberries are rich in antioxidants known for their immune-boosting properties. Walnuts offer healthy fats and protein, contributing to a well-rounded and satisfying meal. This salad is also a great way to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet, making it a guilt-free indulgence you can enjoy without reservation. Finally, the beautiful presentation makes it a perfect option for gatherings, potlucks, or holiday celebrations. The vibrant colors of the ingredients make it a visual feast, adding a touch of elegance to any table. This Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to impress your guests and leave them wanting more. It’s a recipe that you’ll want to make again and again, enjoying its fresh flavors and effortless elegance.

Why You Should Try This Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad Recipe

In a world of complicated recipes and time-consuming meal preparations, this Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad Recipe stands out as a beacon of simplicity and deliciousness. If you’re looking for a healthy and refreshing salad that requires minimal effort, this is the recipe for you. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen but still crave a flavorful and nutritious meal. The combination of sweet apples, tart cranberries, and crunchy walnuts is truly irresistible, offering a delightful blend of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more. This Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad Recipe is also a fantastic way to utilize seasonal ingredients, maximizing freshness and flavor. The recipe is incredibly adaptable; feel free to experiment with different types of apples, nuts, or cheeses to create your own unique version. Perhaps you’d prefer pecans instead of walnuts, or maybe goat cheese would be a delightful alternative to feta? The possibilities are endless!

Moreover, this recipe is economical. The ingredients are readily available and affordable, making it a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality or taste. It’s a great way to stretch your grocery budget while enjoying a delicious and healthy meal. Finally, this Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad Recipe is a perfect choice for any occasion. It’s suitable for casual weeknight dinners, elegant dinner parties, or even potlucks. Its vibrant colors and impressive flavor profile are sure to impress your guests, regardless of the setting. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Don’t miss out on this delicious and versatile salad; try it today and discover a new favorite!

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Your Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad Recipe

This section details the ingredients and tools you’ll need to create the perfect Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad. Accuracy in measurements is crucial for optimal flavor balance.

Ingredients:

• Mixed Greens (4 cups): Choose your favorite blend! Spinach, romaine, spring mix, or even a combination are all excellent choices. Look for fresh, vibrant greens for the best flavor and texture. Consider adding other greens to your salads for added nutritional value
• Apples (2 medium): Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala apples are recommended for their sweetness and crispness. Avoid overly tart or mealy apples. Thoroughly wash and core the apples before slicing.
• Cranberries (1 cup): Fresh or frozen cranberries work equally well. If using frozen, ensure they are completely thawed before adding them to the salad. The tartness of the cranberries beautifully balances the sweetness of the apples.
• Walnuts (1/2 cup): Toasting the walnuts enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch. Coarsely chop them for a more rustic texture.
• Feta Cheese (1/4 cup, optional): Crumbled feta cheese adds a salty, creamy counterpoint to the sweet and tart elements of the salad. If you prefer a vegan option, consider using a vegan feta cheese alternative.

Dressing Ingredients:

• Olive Oil (1/4 cup): Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
• Apple Cider Vinegar (2 tablespoons): This adds a delightful tang that complements the sweetness of the apples and cranberries.
• Maple Syrup (1 tablespoon): Adds a touch of natural sweetness to balance the tartness of the cranberries and vinegar.
• Dijon Mustard (1 teaspoon): Provides a subtle sharpness and helps emulsify the dressing.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor of the salad. Adjust to taste.
• Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a touch of spice and complexity. Adjust to your preference.

Necessary Utensils:

• Large Bowl: For tossing the salad ingredients.
• Small Bowl: For whisking the dressing.
• Whisk: To thoroughly combine the dressing ingredients.
• Cutting Board: For slicing the apples and chopping the walnuts.
• Sharp Knife: For efficiently slicing the apples and chopping the walnuts.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Serving Bowl (optional): For a more elegant presentation.
• Toaster Oven or Skillet (for toasting walnuts): While not strictly necessary, toasting the walnuts enhances their flavor significantly.

Detailed Recipe Steps for Your Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad Recipe

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad. Take your time and enjoy the process!

1. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined and emulsified. **Ensure the dressing is well blended for a smooth, consistent flavor.** Set aside.
2. Toast the Walnuts (Optional but Recommended): Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) or heat a skillet over medium heat. Spread the walnuts in a single layer and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. **Over-toasting will result in bitter walnuts.** Let them cool completely before chopping.
3. Chop the Walnuts: Once cooled, coarsely chop the toasted walnuts. **Avoid over-chopping; a rustic texture is preferable.**
4. Prepare the Apples: Wash and core the apples. Using a sharp knife, thinly slice the apples. **Thin slices are key for optimal texture and preventing the apples from becoming soggy.**
5. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced apples, cranberries, and chopped walnuts. Gently toss to combine. **Avoid over-tossing, as this can bruise the greens.**
6. Add Feta (Optional): If using feta cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the salad.
7. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat everything evenly. **Start with a smaller amount of dressing and add more as needed.** Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
8. Serve Immediately: For the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to serve the Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad immediately after preparing.

Tips and Variations for Your Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad Recipe

Experiment with different ingredients and techniques to make this recipe your own!

• Apple Variations: Experiment with different apple varieties. Braeburn, Pink Lady, or even Granny Smith (for a tarter salad) offer unique flavor profiles.
• Nut Variations: Substitute pecans, almonds, or a mix of nuts for the walnuts. Toasted pecans offer a particularly delicious flavor combination.
• Cheese Variations: Goat cheese, blue cheese, or even a sprinkle of parmesan cheese can be used instead of feta. For a vegan option, try vegan feta or omit the cheese altogether.
• Add-ins: Consider adding dried apricots, raisins, or pomegranate seeds for extra sweetness and texture. A handful of toasted pumpkin seeds also adds a nice crunch.
• Dressing Variations: Adjust the amount of maple syrup or apple cider vinegar to suit your taste preferences. A touch of honey can also be added for extra sweetness.
• Make it Ahead: While best served immediately, you can prepare the dressing and chop the ingredients ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble the salad just before serving to prevent the apples from becoming soggy. Check out our other make-ahead recipes for your next gathering!
• Avoid Soggy Apples: Add the apple slices just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy from the dressing.
• Don’t Overdress: Start with a smaller amount of dressing and add more as needed to avoid a watery salad.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Your Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad Recipe

This Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad is a nutritional powerhouse, offering a range of health benefits. Note that the exact nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes. The following is an approximation for a single serving (approximately 1.5 cups):

Approximate Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 300-350
• Protein: 7-10 grams
• Fat: 18-22 grams (mostly healthy fats from walnuts and olive oil)
• Carbohydrates: 25-30 grams
• Fiber: 5-7 grams

Health Benefits of Ingredients:

• Apples: Rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Promote digestive health and boost immunity.
• Cranberries: Excellent source of antioxidants, particularly proanthocyanidins, which have been linked to urinary tract health and heart health.
• Walnuts: Provide healthy fats (omega-3 fatty acids), fiber, protein, and various vitamins and minerals. Support brain health and heart health.
• Mixed Greens: Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with various minerals. Provide essential nutrients and contribute to overall health.
• Olive Oil: Rich in monounsaturated fats, known for their heart-healthy benefits. Provides antioxidants and reduces inflammation. Explore the benefits of using olive oil in other recipes!
• Feta Cheese (optional): Good source of calcium and protein. Contributes to bone health.

FAQs

This Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad Recipe is a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its vibrant colors and delightful flavors are sure to impress your guests. The recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking. Don’t forget to toast the walnuts for an extra layer of deliciousness! Remember to share your experience and photos on social media using #AppleCranberryWalnutSalad! We’d love to see your creations. For more delicious recipes, check out our other holiday favorites like our Eggnog Cream Pie or Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball. Happy cooking! And don’t forget to pin this recipe to your Pinterest board for later! Pin it here!

Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad with Maple-Dijon Dressing

A vibrant and healthy salad featuring crisp apples, tart cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and a tangy maple-Dijon dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or side dish.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Salad Ingredients

• 4 cups Mixed Greens (Spinach, Romaine, Spring Mix)
• 2 medium Honeycrisp Apples cored and thinly sliced
• 1 cup Fresh Cranberries
• 1/2 cup Walnuts toasted and coarsely chopped
• 1/4 cup Feta Cheese crumbled (optional)

Dressing Ingredients

• 1/4 cup Olive Oil
• 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Maple Syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper

Equipment

• Large Mixing Bowl
• Small Bowl
• Baking Sheet

Method

 

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread walnuts on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant.
2. While walnuts are toasting, prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced apples, cranberries, and toasted walnuts.
4. If using, sprinkle feta cheese over the salad.
5. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat evenly.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For a sweeter salad, use a slightly larger amount of maple syrup in the dressing. You can also substitute pecans or other nuts for the walnuts. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but the apples may brown slightly.