Walnut and Apple Salad

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

Highlighted under: Light Nourishing Meal Ideas

I absolutely love making this Walnut and Apple Salad, especially during the fall when apples are at their peak. The crunchy walnuts and crisp apples create a delightful contrast in texture, while the sweet and tangy dressing brings everything together beautifully. It’s a refreshing side dish that complements any meal or can even stand alone as a light lunch. I appreciate how quick it is to prepare, and it never fails to impress my family and friends with its vibrant colors and flavors.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:50:28.490Z

When I first created this Walnut and Apple Salad, I was inspired by the flavors of autumn. I wanted a dish that showcased the season's fresh produce while being simple enough for a weeknight dinner, so I combined sweet apples with the crunch of walnuts and a zesty dressing. This salad quickly became one of my go-to recipes, as it’s both nourishing and flavorful.

What truly makes this salad shine is the addition of a touch of honey in the dressing, which enhances the natural sweetness of the apples. I've also found that letting the salad sit for a few minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite a perfect balance of flavors.

Why You'll Love This Salad
Crisp apples add a refreshing crunch
Nutty walnuts provide a satisfying texture
Perfectly balanced dressing enhances every bite
Quick and easy to prepare, great for any occasion

Choosing the Right Apples

The choice of apples is crucial for the success of this Walnut and Apple Salad. For a balance of sweetness and tartness, I recommend using a mix of sweet apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp along with a tart variety such as Granny Smith. This combination not only enhances the flavor but also adds a variety of colors to the dish, making it visually appealing. When selecting apples, look for ones that are firm and crisp; they should yield slightly under pressure but not feel mushy to the touch.

Another great option is to incorporate seasonal varieties if available, as they can offer unique flavor profiles. If you're feeling adventurous, try using an Asian pear for a juicy, crunchy twist. Remember to slice the apples just before serving to prevent browning; a splash of lemon juice can help with this if you need to prepare them in advance.

Enhancing the Dressing

The dressing is what ties the salad together, and achieving the perfect balance of flavors is key. The apple cider vinegar brings a delightful acidity that cuts through the richness of the walnuts and feta cheese. Feel free to adjust the amount of honey based on how sweet you prefer your dressing; starting with a tablespoon and adding more to taste can help you find the right balance. If you're in a pinch, balsamic vinegar can be a great substitute, adding deeper flavors and sweetness.

For a bit of extra depth, consider adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the dressing. This ingredient not only offers a subtle tang but also acts as an emulsifier, helping the olive oil and vinegar combine more smoothly. Whisking the dressing until it is glossy is a good visual cue that it’s well-blended and ready to use.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

4 cups mixed greens
2 apples, cored and sliced
1 cup walnuts, chopped
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup dried cranberries

Dressing

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

Instructions

Prepare the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced apples, chopped walnuts, feta cheese, and dried cranberries. Toss gently to combine.

Make the Dressing

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

Dress the Salad

Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss to coat the ingredients evenly.

Serve

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

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding sliced pears or substituting walnuts with pecans. This salad also pairs beautifully with grilled chicken for a heartier meal.

Storage Tips

If you're planning to make this salad in advance, it's best to store components separately to maintain freshness. Keep the mixed greens, apple slices, walnuts, feta, and cranberries in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The dressing should also be stored separately to prevent the greens from wilting. When stored properly this way, the ingredients should stay fresh for up to two days. Assemble the salad just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

If you have leftover salad, it's easy to refresh it for another meal. Simply add a splash of fresh dressing to revive the flavors and toss in additional nuts or cheese to keep it exciting. However, be cautious with the apple slices, as they can become mushy after the first day; consider replacing them with fresh slices when you serve.

Variations to Try

While this salad is delicious as is, there are plenty of fun variations to explore. Add seasonal ingredients such as roasted butternut squash or beets for a heartier salad. These vegetables not only add flavor but also bring additional color to your presentation. You could also substitute the feta cheese with goat cheese or a dairy-free cheese option if you’re catering to dietary restrictions.

For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas to make this salad a more filling meal. Simply toss in the protein of your choice after assembling the salad, and adjust the dressing accordingly to suit your palate. The versatility of this recipe allows for endless customization while still achieving that delightful crunch from the apples and walnuts.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them separately. Assemble and dress the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

You can substitute crumbled goat cheese or omit the cheese altogether for a dairy-free version.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this salad are gluten-free.

→ How long can I keep leftovers?

The salad is best eaten fresh, but you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the greens may become wilted.