Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that brings together the crisp sweetness of apples, the tartness of dried cranberries, and the nutty crunch of toasted walnuts. This salad is light yet full of flavor, with mixed greens providing a fresh base and a tangy vinaigrette tying everything together. Perfect for a quick lunch, a festive holiday side, or a nutritious addition to dinner, this salad is as easy to make as it is delicious. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser that’s both healthy and satisfying.
Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad
Ingredients:
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (such as spinach, arugula, or romaine)
- 1 large apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), thinly sliced
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup walnuts, toasted
- ¼ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
- ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
For the dressing:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Toast the walnuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Prepare the salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced apples, dried cranberries, toasted walnuts, red onion, and crumbled cheese (if using).
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Toss the salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Serve: Serve immediately as a light lunch or as a side dish to complement your main meal.
Enjoy your crisp and flavorful Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad, perfect for any occasion!