Apple Walnut Salad

Name: Apple Walnut Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups mixed greens; 2 medium apples, thinly sliced; 1 cup walnuts, toasted; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup dried cranberries; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Natural Healthy Meals Favorites

I absolutely love making this Apple Walnut Salad during the fall months when the apples are at their juiciest. The combination of sweet, crisp apples with crunchy walnuts and a tangy dressing is simply irresistible. It’s not only refreshing but also a great option for a light meal or side dish. I usually pair it with some grilled chicken to create a balanced meal. Plus, it’s perfect for entertaining, as it comes together quickly and looks beautiful on the table.

Created by

Cassandra Reed

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:13:36.036Z

When I first made this Apple Walnut Salad, I was looking for something light yet satisfying to complement a heavy main dish. The sudden balance of tart and sweet flavors caught my attention, making it a wonderful sidekick during family dinners. My tip is to choose apples that are crisp, like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith, for that perfect crunch.

A secret I discovered is to toast the walnuts lightly before adding them to the salad. It brings out a deeper, richer flavor that pairs beautifully with the fresh apple slices. This little tweak transforms the salad into something truly special, and my guests have raved about it every time!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Freshness of sweet and tart apples
Crunchy walnuts that add a delightful texture
Versatile and perfect for any occasion

Choosing the Right Apples

The type of apples you choose for your Apple Walnut Salad can significantly affect the flavor profile. Varieties like Granny Smith provide a tart contrast to the sweetness of the dressing, while Honeycrisp adds a sweet crunch. I recommend using a mix of both for a balanced taste. Aim for firm apples that are bright in color and free of blemishes; this ensures they stay crisp during preparation and serving, avoiding a soggy salad.

When slicing apples, a sharp knife is key to achieving even cuts. Thin slices not only look appealing but also allow for better absorption of the dressing, enhancing the overall flavor. A good tip is to slice the apples just before assembling the salad to maintain their fresh appearance. If you're preparing the salad ahead of time, toss the apple slices with a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning.

The Role of Walnuts and Feta

Toasting the walnuts is essential for unlocking their rich, earthy flavor and adding a delightful crunch. You can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they're golden and fragrant. This step not only enhances the taste but also elevates the texture, making each bite of the salad more satisfying. Be careful not to over-toast them, as they can burn quickly and become bitter.

Feta cheese brings a creamy tanginess that complements the sweet and crunchy elements of the salad. If you're lactose intolerant or simply prefer a dairy-free option, you can substitute with crumbled avocado or use a vegan feta made from nuts. Both alternatives add a creamy texture without compromising the flavor balance, allowing everyone to enjoy this fall-inspired dish.

Ingredients

For the Salad

4 cups mixed greens
2 medium apples, thinly sliced
1 cup walnuts, toasted
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup dried cranberries

For the Dressing

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and drizzle with the dressing before serving.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by washing the mixed greens thoroughly and drying them with a salad spinner. Slice the apples thinly and set aside.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined.

Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced apples, toasted walnuts, feta cheese, and dried cranberries. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently.

Serve

Transfer the salad to a serving dish and enjoy immediately for the best texture.

This Apple Walnut Salad can be prepared ahead of time, but add the dressing just before serving for the freshest taste.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating some sliced red onion or a sprinkle of cinnamon to enhance the autumn theme.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to serve this salad for a gathering, consider prepping the ingredients ahead of time. You can wash and dry the greens, slice the apples, and toast the walnuts a day in advance. Store each ingredient separately to maintain freshness, especially the apples, which can brown when cut. Assemble the salad just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

The dressing can be made up to a week in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick whisk before drizzling over your assembled salad, as the ingredients may separate over time. Having your components prepped will save you time and stress on the day you plan to serve this delicious dish.

Serving Suggestions

This Apple Walnut Salad pairs beautifully with grilled proteins, such as chicken or salmon. The lightness of the salad complements the richness of the meats, creating a balanced meal ideal for a casual family dinner or a more formal gathering. You could also serve it alongside soups, especially creamy varieties like butternut squash or potato leek, for a hearty yet refreshing lunch.

For a twist, consider adding protein to the salad itself. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even quinoa can transform this salad into a more substantial dish, making it perfect as a light main course. You can also experiment with adding seasonal ingredients like roasted sweet potatoes or pomegranate seeds to further enrich the flavors and textures.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?

Absolutely! Pecans or slivered almonds also work beautifully in this salad.

→ How can I make this salad vegan?

Simply omit the feta cheese and use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.

→ What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store the salad without dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Dress just before you eat it.

→ Can I add protein to make it a full meal?

Yes! Grilled chicken or chickpeas would make a great addition to boost the protein content.