Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad Recipe

Get ready for a refreshing burst of fall flavor in every bite with this Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad. It’s a gorgeous mix of crisp romaine, sweet Honeycrisp apple, tart cranberries, nutty toasted walnuts, and creamy feta, all tucked under a tangy maple-Dijon dressing. If you crave salads that are as vibrant to look at as they are to devour, this recipe will become an instant classic at your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this salad is how such simple, wholesome ingredients come together for unbeatable harmony—each one adds its own pop of taste, color, or satisfying texture. Don’t skip or skimp, because these are the building blocks of that signature Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad flavor!

• Chopped romaine lettuce: The crisp base that provides a juicy crunch and a sturdy bed for all the toppings.
• Honeycrisp apple: Adds a juicy sweetness and refreshing bite—cut into matchsticks for the perfect nibble in every forkful.
• Chopped toasted walnuts: Toasting deepens the nutty flavor and brings out a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the apples.
• Dried cranberries: Their chewy texture and tangy sweetness add beautiful color and a pop of flavor.
• Crumbled feta cheese: Creamy, salty, and tangy—feta ties together all the flavors and adds irresistible richness.
• Olive oil: The essential base of the dressing, giving it a lovely silky body.
• Apple cider vinegar: Brings bright acidity to the dressing and subtly reinforces the fruit theme.
• Maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness and a delicate, earthy note to the dressing for balance.
• Dijon mustard: For a gentle punch of flavor and to help the dressing emulsify beautifully.
• Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and making all the fresh, bold flavors truly sing.

How to Make Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad

Step 1: Whip Up the Maple-Dijon Dressing

Begin by whisking together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl. Keep whisking until the dressing looks glossy and smooth. Add kosher salt and black pepper to taste—don’t be shy, proper seasoning makes all the difference for the Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad. Set the dressing aside; these few moments give the flavors time to meld, creating a harmony that’s worth the tiny bit of patience.

Step 2: Toss the Romaine with Dressing

In a large salad bowl, add your chopped romaine lettuce. Drizzle a generous portion of dressing over the greens (about half to start), then toss thoroughly to make sure every leaf is evenly coated. This step transforms the lettuce from plain and crunchy to crave-worthy and flavorful—the perfect foundation for the rest of the Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad ingredients.

Step 3: Add the Toppings

Now for the showstoppers: scatter matchstick-cut Honeycrisp apple, toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, and crumbled feta right on top of the dressed romaine. If you like extra feta, this is the moment to go wild! The colors look stunning, and each topping piles on more flavor and texture.

Step 4: Finish & Toss

Drizzle over the remaining dressing, then gently toss everything together so that every element mingles. Taste a bite—this is the secret of salad greatness—then add another pinch of salt or pepper, if needed. Serve the Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad immediately so it keeps that signature crunch.

How to Serve Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad

Garnishes

A final flourish makes all the difference. For a pop of color and extra texture, sprinkle a handful of pomegranate seeds or a little extra feta over the top before serving. If you’re feeling fancy, thin ribbons of fresh basil or mint can really elevate the Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad and add fresh complexity.

Side Dishes

This salad fits right in with so many spreads. Serve it alongside a bowl of creamy butternut squash soup, some toasted crusty bread, or roasted chicken for a satisfying dinner. As a potluck favorite, the Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad shines next to anything from a hearty casserole to a simple grilled steak.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your salad family-style on a wide platter to show off all those jewel-toned toppings, or build individual servings in clear glasses for a fun, layered look. For a picnic or work lunch, pack the components separately and assemble your Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad right before eating—no soggy lettuce ever!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have extra Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad, store it in the fridge in an airtight container. It’s best within a day, especially if dressed, as the romaine will start to soften. For maximum crunch later, keep dressing separate until just before serving.

Freezing

This isn’t the best salad to freeze, as both lettuce and apples can get mushy after thawing. The walnuts, cranberries, and feta hold up well to cold, but fresh is definitely best for the complete Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad experience.

Reheating

Leafy salads and reheating don’t really mix, but if you want to enjoy the salad warm, you can toast the chopped walnuts or briefly warm the walnuts, apples, and cranberries in a skillet before adding to the freshly dressed greens. This adds a cozy twist on chilly days without wilting the whole salad.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Absolutely! While Honeycrisp apples are extra crisp and sweet, feel free to swap in Gala, Fuji, or Granny Smith for more tartness. Just be sure to slice them thinly, and soak briefly in lemon water if you want to keep them from browning.

What can I substitute for walnuts if I have an allergy?

No worries—try roasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds), sunflower seeds, or even crunchy chickpeas for a nut-free version. Each option still adds that signature crunch to your Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad.

Is there a vegan alternative to feta cheese?

Definitely! Opt for a vegan feta cheese, or simply leave out the cheese and add some creamy avocado slices for a luscious, plant-based alternative that still works perfectly in this salad.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, the dressing for Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad holds up beautifully in the fridge for up to a week. Give it a good whisk or shake before using, as the oil and vinegar can separate over time.

How can I make this more of a meal?

Just add grilled chicken, salmon, or chickpeas right on top for a protein boost. This transforms the Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad from a delicious side into a hearty, satisfying entrée.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to toss together this fresh, colorful Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad! With its irresistible mix of textures and sweet-tangy flavors, you’ll want to make it for everything from weeknight meals to special gatherings. Give it a try and let it become a staple in your kitchen—it’s always a crowd-pleaser!

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