Apple salad is a delightful combination of sweet, tart, and savory flavors. Crisp apples, fresh greens, crunchy nuts, and creamy dressing come together for a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. This versatile recipe works as a light meal, a side dish, or a festive addition to your holiday table.
Ingredients
- 2 large apples (e.g., Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji), thinly sliced
- 6 cups mixed greens (e.g., spinach, arugula, or kale)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds (toasted for extra flavor)
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Small jar or whisk for dressing
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
1. Prepare the dressing:
In a small jar or bowl, combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Shake or whisk until well combined.
2. Slice the apples:
Thinly slice the apples and, if desired, toss them in a little lemon juice to prevent browning.
3. Assemble the salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced apples, crumbled cheese, dried cranberries, nuts, and red onion (if using).
4. Dress the salad:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
5. Serve:
Transfer the salad to a serving dish and enjoy immediately for the freshest flavor.
Tips
- Add protein: For a more filling salad, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
- Mix up the nuts and fruits: Try candied nuts, sunflower seeds, or pomegranate arils for a twist.
- Make it ahead: Prep all the ingredients separately and assemble just before serving to keep it crisp.
This apple salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s as versatile as it is easy to make. With its perfect balance of textures and flavors, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe for everyday meals and special occasions alike. Enjoy this refreshing salad with your favorite entrée or as a light, standalone meal!
Apple Salad Recipe
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Small jar or whisk for dressing
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 2 large apples e.g., Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji, thinly sliced
- 6 cups mixed greens e.g., spinach, arugula, or kale
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts pecans, or almonds (toasted for extra flavor)
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion optional
- Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing:
- In a small jar or bowl, combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Shake or whisk until well combined.
- Slice the apples:
- Thinly slice the apples and, if desired, toss them in a little lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Assemble the salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced apples, crumbled cheese, dried cranberries, nuts, and red onion (if using).
- Dress the salad:
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
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