Apple Walnut Salad
My Apple Walnut Salad is a delightful blend of crisp greens, tart apples, creamy feta, and crunchy walnuts, all tossed in a zesty apple cider vinaigrette. Fresh, flavorful, and ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for holiday meals or a quick, light lunch!
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 235kcal
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens, roughly chopped can also use baby spinach or romaine
- 1 Granny Smith apple cored and sliced
- ¼ cup pitted dates chopped (omit for a lower carb option)
- ¼ cup unsweetened dried cranberries
- ⅓ cup chopped walnuts toasted and chopped
- ½ cup red onion finely diced
- 2 oz. feta cheese crumbled
- salt & ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp maple syrup, honey, or apple jelly (use a sugar free jelly for a lower carb option)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Combine maple syrup through to cayenne pepper in a bowl and whisk until well incorporated, this will become your salad dressing. Set aside.
- Combine mixed salad greens, apples, dates, cranberries, walnuts, onion and feta in large bowl.
- Toss with dressing until coated as desired.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
- I toast the walnuts for a rich, nutty flavor and perfect crunch. I spread them on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F for 7-9 minutes, watching closely. For a quicker option, I use a skillet on medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring often. This simple step makes the salad unforgettable!
- I always wash my greens in cool water and pat them dry with a tea towel or salad spinner. Clean, dry greens taste fresher and help the dressing stick better.
- I like to keep a little dressing on the side so guests can adjust to their taste. It’s a simple way to make the salad feel more personal.
- This salad pairs beautifully with seasonal veggies! I switch up the greens or add roasted vegetables to keep it fresh and perfect for any time of year.
Nutrition
Calories: 235kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 13mg | Sodium: 182mg | Potassium: 285mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 20g