Description
Crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, and fresh greens come together in this bright and wholesome apple and walnut salad, lightly coated in a simple honey dressing. Quick to prepare, this fresh salad offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making it a perfect healthy side dish for fall and winter meals.
Ingredients
Salad:
- 6 cups mixed greens (spring mix or spinach)
- 2 medium apples, thinly sliced
- ½ cup walnuts, toasted
- ¼ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
- ¼ red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
Honey Dressing:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt & black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the salad base: In a large salad bowl, combine 6 cups of mixed greens, 2 thinly sliced medium apples, toasted walnuts, and thinly sliced red onion if using. Toss gently to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of honey, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste until the dressing is smooth and emulsified.
- Toss salad with dressing: Drizzle the honey dressing over the salad mixture, then gently toss all ingredients to coat the greens and fruit evenly without bruising the apples.
- Add cheese (optional) and serve: Sprinkle ¼ cup of crumbled feta or goat cheese over the top of the salad before serving to add a creamy, tangy contrast, if desired. Serve immediately for best freshness.
Notes
- Swap walnuts for pecans for a sweeter, nuttier flavor.
- Add dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds for extra color and a burst of sweetness.
- For meal prep, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain the crispness of the greens and apples.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
