Salads

Apple Walnut Salad with Maple Dressing

Name: Apple Walnut Salad with Maple Dressing
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 2 medium crisp apples; 6 cups mixed salad greens; ½ cup walnuts, toasted; ½ small red onion, thinly sliced; ½ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese; ¼ cup dried cranberries or raisins; 3 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp pure maple syrup; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; Salt and black pepper, to taste

Servings: 6 Total Time: 15 mins Difficulty: Beginner

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Introduction

This Apple Walnut Salad with Maple Dressing is a refreshing mix of crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, leafy greens, and tangy cheese, all brought together with a naturally sweet and tangy maple vinaigrette. It’s a salad that captures the essence of fall while still feeling light, elegant, and versatile enough for year-round enjoyment. The balance of textures—crunchy, creamy, juicy, and crisp—makes it a standout side or even a satisfying main dish.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this salad because it’s the perfect marriage of sweet and savory. The apples add juiciness, the walnuts bring a nutty crunch, the maple dressing ties everything together with warmth, and the optional addition of cheese adds creaminess and tang. It feels wholesome, nourishing, and indulgent all at once. It’s also quick to prepare, making it a great go-to for busy days or when you want to serve something beautiful with minimal effort.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

Seasonal yet versatile – Perfect for fall, but delicious any time of year.
Nutrient-packed – Apples provide fiber, walnuts add healthy fats, and greens are full of vitamins.
Quick & easy – Ready in minutes, no cooking required.
Crowd-pleaser – Works as a family dinner side, potluck dish, or holiday salad.
Balanced flavors – Sweet, savory, nutty, tangy, and fresh all in one bite.

Preparation & Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4–6 servings
Calories: ~280 kcal per serving

Cuisine & Course

Cuisine: American (modern, seasonal)
Course: Salad / Side dish / Light main course

Ingredients

For the Salad:

2 medium crisp apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith), thinly sliced
6 cups mixed salad greens (spring mix, spinach, or arugula)
½ cup walnuts, toasted
½ small red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
¼ cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional, for extra sweetness)

For the Maple Dressing:

3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp pure maple syrup
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or balsamic vinegar)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Simple Cooking Directions

Slice apples and prep salad ingredients.
Whisk together maple dressing.
Toss salad greens with apples, walnuts, onion, cheese, and dressing.
Serve immediately.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1 – Prep Ingredients

Wash and dry salad greens.
Thinly slice apples and onion.
Toast walnuts in a dry skillet for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2 – Make Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and emulsified.

Step 3 – Assemble Salad

In a large bowl, combine greens, apples, onion, walnuts, and cheese (if using).
Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to coat.

Step 4 – Serve

Transfer to a serving bowl or individual plates. Garnish with extra walnuts or cranberries if desired.

How to Serve

Best served immediately after tossing with dressing.
Pair with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or soup for a balanced meal.
Can be served as a starter for holiday meals or as a light lunch.

Additional Recipe Tips

To prevent apples from browning, toss slices in a little lemon juice before adding to salad.
Use high-quality maple syrup for the best flavor in the dressing.
Toasting walnuts enhances their flavor and crunch—don’t skip this step.
For extra crunch, add pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds.

Variations

Cheese swap: Try blue cheese or shaved parmesan instead of feta/goat cheese.
Nut alternative: Use pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts.
Protein boost: Add grilled chicken, turkey, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
Fruit twist: Swap apples for pears or add pomegranate seeds for color.
Greens base: Try kale, spinach, or romaine instead of mixed greens.

Freezing & Storage

Storage (without dressing): Salad ingredients can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Storage (with dressing): Once dressed, salad is best enjoyed immediately but may last up to 6 hours in the fridge.
Dressing: Can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Freezing: Not recommended (greens and apples lose texture).

Special Equipment Needed

Large salad bowl
Small whisk (for dressing)
Sharp knife and cutting board
Skillet (for toasting walnuts)

Conclusion

Apple Walnut Salad with Maple Dressing is a refreshing, nutritious, and flavorful dish that celebrates the harmony of crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, and a warm, sweet-tangy dressing. It’s versatile enough to serve for everyday meals yet elegant enough for holiday gatherings. Light, wholesome, and full of texture, this salad is a must-try for anyone who loves the simple beauty of seasonal ingredients.

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