Crisp and Colorful Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad: A Refreshing Delight for Any Occasion

Are you looking for a salad that’s both nutritious and bursting with flavor? Look no further than this Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad. This vibrant dish combines crisp apples, chewy dried cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and fresh greens for a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Whether you’re preparing it as a light lunch or serving it as a festive side dish, this salad is sure to impress.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is more than just a mix of ingredients—it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the apples pairs beautifully with the tartness of dried cranberries, while the walnuts provide a satisfying crunch. Topped with creamy feta or goat cheese (optional) and tossed in a simple homemade dressing, this salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weekdays or special gatherings.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or need a quick and healthy meal, this recipe has got you covered. It’s versatile, customizable, and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

To make this delightful salad, you’ll need the following key components:

• Apples: Choose crisp varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala for the best texture and flavor. Slice or dice them depending on your preference.
• Dried Cranberries: These add a pop of sweetness and chewiness to every bite.
• Chopped Walnuts: For extra flavor, toast the walnuts before adding them to the salad. They’ll enhance the overall taste and provide a rich crunch.
• Mixed Greens: Use a blend of spinach, arugula, or spring mix for a nutrient-packed base. Feel free to experiment with other leafy greens like kale or romaine.
• Cheese (Optional): Crumbled feta or goat cheese adds creaminess and complements the tangy cranberries and sweet apples.
• Red Onion (Optional): Thinly sliced red onion brings a mild sharpness that balances the sweetness of the fruit.
• Dressing: A simple vinaigrette made from olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or balsamic vinegar), honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper ties everything together.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Salad Base

1. Start by washing and drying your mixed greens thoroughly. This ensures the salad stays fresh and crisp.
2. Core and chop your apples into bite-sized pieces. If you’re worried about browning, toss the slices in a little lemon juice to keep them fresh.
3. Roughly chop the walnuts and dried cranberries. Toasting the walnuts beforehand can elevate their flavor—simply spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes. Let them cool before using.
4. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, chopped apples, dried cranberries, and walnuts. If desired, sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese over the top for added richness.

Making the Dressing

1. In a small jar or bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar (or balsamic vinegar), 1 teaspoon of honey (or maple syrup), a dash of Dijon mustard, and a pinch each of salt and pepper.
2. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add a bit more honey; for tanginess, increase the vinegar.

Assembling the Salad

1. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly. Be careful not to overdress—you want the greens to remain light and refreshing.
2. Serve immediately for the freshest taste. Garnish with additional cheese or nuts if desired.

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Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people as a side dish or 2 as a light main course. Preparation takes approximately 15 minutes, and since there’s no cooking involved, it’s quick and hassle-free. Perfect for those nights when you need something wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen!

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Variations to Try

One of the best things about this salad is its versatility. Here are some ideas to customize it:

• Add Protein: Top with grilled chicken, turkey slices, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
• Switch the Nuts: Substitute pecans or almonds for walnuts if you prefer.
• Experiment with Cheese: Swap feta or goat cheese for blue cheese or shaved parmesan for a different flavor profile.
• Make It Vegan: Omit the cheese and use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.
• Swap the Fruits: Pears or pomegranate seeds pair wonderfully with the existing ingredients.

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Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store any undressed salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain freshness, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve. Once dressed, the salad is best consumed within a few hours to avoid sogginess. This salad is meant to be enjoyed cold and does not require reheating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the apples from browning?
Toss the apple slices in a little lemon juice before adding them to the salad. This slows down oxidation and keeps them looking fresh.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prep the ingredients separately and assemble the salad just before serving to ensure maximum freshness.

What are the best apples to use?
Crisp and slightly sweet varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala work best in this salad.

Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all dressing ingredients are gluten-free, this salad is naturally gluten-free.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
While dried cranberries are recommended for their sweetness and chewiness, fresh cranberries can be too tart and firm for raw salads.

What kind of vinegar is best?
Both apple cider vinegar and balsamic vinegar pair well with the other ingredients. Choose based on your preferred flavor profile.

Can I toast the walnuts?
Yes! Toasting walnuts enhances their flavor and adds extra crunch. Just remember to let them cool before adding to the salad.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
It can be, especially if you store the components separately. Combine them right before eating for the best results.

How long does the homemade dressing last?
The dressing will last up to 1 week in the refrigerator if stored in a sealed container.

What other greens can I use?
Any leafy greens like kale, romaine, or baby spinach will work well. Feel free to mix and match.

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Conclusion

This Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad is a vibrant, nutrient-rich dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. With its perfect mix of sweet, tart, and savory elements, it’s a go-to option for everyday meals or festive occasions. Keep it in your rotation for a refreshing, satisfying salad that never disappoints.

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Recipe Card

Ingredients:

• 2 apples, cored and chopped
• ½ cup walnuts, roughly chopped
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• 4 cups mixed salad greens
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
2. Combine chopped apples, walnuts, dried cranberries, and mixed greens in a large bowl.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese if using and serve immediately.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 210 | Sugar: 12g | Sodium: 120mg | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Unsaturated Fat: 11g | Trans Fat: 0g | Carbohydrates: 20g | Fiber: 3g | Protein: 3g | Cholesterol: 5mg

Enjoy this delightful salad and share your creations with us—we’d love to see what you’ve made!