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Autumn Apple Walnut Salad with Maple Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe


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4.3 from 74 reviews

  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A refreshing Autumn Apple Walnut Salad featuring a mix of crisp greens, tart and sweet apple slices, toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, and optional creamy feta cheese, all brought together with a flavorful maple Dijon vinaigrette. Perfect for a quick, nutritious, and elegant fall-inspired meal or side dish.


Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or your preferred mix)
  • 2 apples, thinly sliced (Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness)
  • 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional but recommended)
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

Vinaigrette Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar until emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to taste and set aside to let the flavors meld.
  2. Toast the Walnuts: Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped walnuts and toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until they become fragrant and slightly golden. Remove from heat and allow them to cool.
  3. Slice the Apples: Using a sharp knife or mandoline, thinly slice the apples. To prevent browning, optionally toss the apple slices with a little lemon juice.
  4. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced apples, toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, and thinly sliced red onions. If desired, sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese over the top for added creaminess and flavor.
  5. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the prepared maple Dijon vinaigrette over the salad components and gently toss with tongs or large spoons to coat everything evenly without bruising the greens.
  6. Serve: Transfer the salad to individual plates or serve family-style in a large bowl. Best enjoyed immediately to maintain the crispness of the ingredients.

Notes

  • To keep apple slices from browning, toss them with a tablespoon of lemon juice before adding to the salad.
  • To toast walnuts, keep an eye on them to avoid burning; stirring frequently helps even toasting.
  • For a vegan option, omit the feta or goat cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
  • Feel free to customize the mixed greens to your preference or seasonal availability.
  • This salad is best served fresh and can be prepared shortly before serving to maintain optimal freshness and texture.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American