Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad Recipe
A vibrant Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad combines crisp apples, tangy dried cranberries, creamy feta cheese, and toasted walnuts to bring a burst of autumn flavor to any table. This delightful, quick-to-assemble side dish is ideal for pairing with any meal and capturing the essence of the season.
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Servings: 6
Ingredients
Salad:
- 6 cups mixed salad greens such as arugula, baby spinach, or any spring green mix
- 1 red apple cored and chopped
- 1 green apple cored and chopped
- 1 cup walnuts roughly chopped
- 4 –6 strips of bacon cooked and crumbled (optional)
- ⅓ cup feta cheese crumbled
- ⅓ cup dried cranberries
Dressing:
- 1 cup apple juice
- 4 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or substitute white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ cup oil olive oil or any light-tasting oil
- Candied Walnuts optional:
- 1 cup walnut halves
- 1 tablespoon butter
- ¼ cup sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, toss together the salad greens, chopped red and green apples, walnuts, crumbled feta, bacon (if using), and dried cranberries.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together all the dressing ingredients until well combined, or shake them in a sealed jar until smooth. Pour over the salad just before serving, tossing to coat evenly. Enjoy immediately.
For the Candied Walnuts (optional):
- Prepare a baking sheet lined with greased parchment paper or a nonstick baking mat.
- In a medium nonstick skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sugar together, stirring until combined.
- Add the walnut halves, salt, and cinnamon, stirring continuously until the walnuts are fully coated and caramelized.
- Remove the walnuts from the heat and spread them out on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Allow to cool for 5-10 minutes before adding to the salad.
Notes
Dressing Variations: Poppy seed or balsamic dressing also make excellent alternatives.
Walnut Options: Feel free to use raw, toasted, or even candied pecans instead of walnuts.
Walnut Options: Feel free to use raw, toasted, or even candied pecans instead of walnuts.