Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries

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This Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts, Cranberries, and Feta offers the perfect combination of sweet, tart, and savory flavors. The crisp apples paired with the crunch of the candied walnuts and the tangy bite of the feta create a delightful contrast that elevates the entire dish. The dried cranberries add a chewy sweetness, balancing the freshness of the greens and apples.

Not only is this salad beautiful with its colorful mix of ingredients, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a dinner side, or something light to impress guests, this salad has it all. Plus, the simple homemade dressing ties everything together with a perfect touch of acidity and sweetness.

Full Recipe:

4 cups mixed salad greens (such as arugula, spinach, or romaine)
2 apples (thinly sliced, Granny Smith or Gala work well)
1/2 cup candied walnuts
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 red onion (thinly sliced)
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, apple slices, cranberries, walnuts, and red onion.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Top with crumbled feta cheese before serving.
Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh and crunchy textures.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes
Kcal: 250 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries: A Perfect Blend of Crunch, Sweetness, and Savory Goodness

When it comes to creating salads, one of the most appealing aspects is the versatility and variety they offer. The Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts, Cranberries, and Feta is a perfect example of this, blending sweet, tart, crunchy, and savory elements into a refreshing, nutritious dish that is as visually stunning as it is delicious.

This salad isn’t just another simple side dish; it’s a harmony of textures and flavors that can easily stand alone as a meal or complement a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re preparing it for a light lunch, an elegant starter, or as part of a larger dinner spread, this salad is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why This Apple Salad Stands Out

The beauty of this apple salad lies in its simplicity, yet it feels gourmet thanks to the thoughtful combination of high-quality, flavorful ingredients. It’s easy to make but delivers a taste and presentation that could impress at any dinner party or gathering. Here are some key reasons why this recipe stands out:

Balanced Flavors: The salad features a fantastic balance between the crisp sweetness of apples, the tartness of dried cranberries, and the nutty richness of candied walnuts. This balance is further enhanced by the saltiness of feta cheese, which rounds out the flavors and adds a savory element to the dish.
Vibrant Colors: Visually, this salad is a show-stopper. The red and green hues from the apples, the deep maroon of cranberries, and the golden-brown sheen of candied walnuts provide an appealing contrast to the leafy greens. The white crumbles of feta cheese add a lovely brightness to the dish, making it even more inviting.
Crunch and Texture: The texture combination in this salad is one of its key strengths. The apples provide a crisp bite, while the candied walnuts bring a satisfying crunch. The dried cranberries add chewiness, and the creamy feta cheese softens the overall feel of the salad, making every forkful interesting and delightful.
Seasonal Appeal: This salad shines in fall and winter months, where apples and cranberries are in peak season. However, it is versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round, offering a refreshing, light option that contrasts with heavier winter dishes or complements summer fare.

Health Benefits of the Key Ingredients

In addition to its irresistible taste, this salad packs several health benefits thanks to its wholesome ingredients. Here’s why each component is a nutritional star:

Apples: Apples are rich in fiber, particularly pectin, which supports digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar levels. They’re also high in antioxidants, especially in the skin, which helps fight inflammation and supports heart health. Apples are naturally low in calories and high in water content, making them a great addition to any weight management plan.
Candied Walnuts: Walnuts are a nutrient-dense food, loaded with healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health and reducing inflammation. They’re also high in protein and fiber, making them a satiating addition to any meal. Candied walnuts, while adding a touch of sweetness, maintain many of the walnut’s natural health benefits, offering a sweet crunch without heavily compromising nutritional value.
Dried Cranberries: These tart little fruits are rich in vitamins C and E, which are powerful antioxidants. Cranberries are known for their role in supporting urinary tract health, but they’re also beneficial for the immune system and may help reduce inflammation.
Feta Cheese: Feta is a brined cheese, which gives it a salty flavor that complements the sweetness of the other ingredients. It’s lower in calories and fat than many other cheeses but still provides a good source of calcium and protein. The tangy flavor of feta brings balance to the salad without overwhelming it.
Leafy Greens: The mixed greens used in this salad provide a base that is low in calories but high in vitamins and minerals. Leafy greens like spinach and arugula are excellent sources of vitamin K, which is important for bone health, as well as vitamins A and C, which support immune function and skin health.
Homemade Dressing: The dressing, made from apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and olive oil, is a healthier alternative to store-bought dressings. Apple cider vinegar is known for its potential to regulate blood sugar and improve digestion, while olive oil provides heart-healthy fats and antioxidants. The mustard adds depth, and honey contributes a touch of sweetness to balance the tang of the vinegar.

Customization Ideas for the Apple Salad

One of the best things about this apple salad recipe is its adaptability. You can easily modify the ingredients to suit your taste preferences, dietary needs, or the ingredients you have on hand. Here are some ideas to customize this salad:

Protein Boost: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or smoked salmon. These options pair beautifully with the flavors of apple, cranberries, and feta, making the salad more filling.
Vegan Alternative: To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative. You can also swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar in the dressing to keep it entirely plant-based.
Nut Alternatives: While candied walnuts are delicious, you can easily substitute them with other nuts like pecans or almonds. For those with nut allergies, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds are great alternatives that still provide that essential crunch.
Fruit Variations: If you want to experiment with different flavors, swap out apples for pears or pomegranate seeds. Pears offer a softer, more delicate sweetness, while pomegranate seeds add a burst of tart flavor and vibrant color.
Cheese Options: While feta is a classic choice for this salad, goat cheese or blue cheese can be used to add a different type of creaminess and flavor. Goat cheese has a milder taste, while blue cheese offers a bold, tangy profile.
Leafy Greens: You can experiment with different greens depending on your preference. While arugula adds a peppery bite, spinach provides a more neutral flavor. You can also mix in kale, romaine, or even radicchio for a more varied texture.

When and How to Serve This Salad

The Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts, Cranberries, and Feta is an incredibly versatile dish that fits a wide range of occasions:

Holiday Meals: This salad is an excellent choice for holiday gatherings. It complements traditional fall and winter dishes like roasted meats and heavier casseroles. The bright, fresh flavors offer a refreshing contrast to richer, more indulgent meals.
Light Lunch or Dinner: If you’re looking for a lighter meal, this salad is ideal. It can be paired with a soup or served alongside a hearty sandwich or protein. The ingredients are filling enough to make it a satisfying solo dish without leaving you overly full.
Meal Prep: This salad is a great candidate for meal prep. Simply store the ingredients separately and combine them just before serving to ensure that the greens and apples stay fresh and crisp. The dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a week.

Conclusion

The Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts, Cranberries, and Feta is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy elements. Its beautiful presentation and balanced flavors make it a versatile dish suitable for both casual meals and special occasions. Not only is it quick and easy to prepare, but it also offers a host of nutritional benefits, thanks to its wholesome ingredients.

This salad proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring. With every bite, you get a symphony of textures and flavors—sweet apples, crunchy walnuts, tart cranberries, and creamy feta, all tied together with a light and zesty homemade dressing. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a holiday feast, or simply looking for a nutritious, delicious salad to enjoy any day of the week, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.