Apple Walnut Salad with Maple Vinaigrette

Apple Walnut Salad with Maple Vinaigrette is a fresh, crunchy, and lightly sweet salad that perfectly balances textures and flavors. Crisp apple slices, toasted walnuts, mixed greens, and creamy cheese are tossed with a tangy-sweet maple vinaigrette, creating a refreshing and satisfying dish.

This salad is perfect for fall and winter, offering seasonal flavors in every bite. It’s simple to make yet impressive, ideal as a side dish, lunch, or light dinner.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines a variety of textures and flavors—crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, creamy cheese, and fresh greens—into a single, harmonious dish. The maple vinaigrette ties everything together with a sweet and tangy punch, elevating a simple salad into something special.

It’s healthy, satisfying, visually appealing, and can be made in under 15 minutes, making it a go-to for busy days or entertaining.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it’s both flavorful and versatile. The combination of sweet, nutty, and tangy elements makes it memorable, while the seasonal apples and maple dressing add warmth and freshness.

It’s perfect for family meals, dinner parties, or holiday gatherings, and it pairs beautifully with roasted meats, poultry, or grain dishes.

Preparation Time & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 5 minutes (for toasting walnuts)
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 250 per serving

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: American / Contemporary
• Course: Salad / Side Dish

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 4 cups mixed greens (baby spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
• 2 medium apples, thinly sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
• 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese

For the Maple Vinaigrette:

• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant, about 3–5 minutes.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. In a large salad bowl, combine mixed greens, apple slices, toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, and cheese.
4. Drizzle with maple vinaigrette and toss gently to coat.
5. Serve immediately.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

1. Toast Walnuts: Place 1/2 cup walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently until fragrant and lightly golden, about 3–5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
2. Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tbsp maple syrup, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until emulsified.
3. Prepare Salad Ingredients: Wash and dry 4 cups mixed greens. Thinly slice 2 apples. Crumble 1/4 cup cheese (feta or goat cheese).
4. Assemble Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine mixed greens, apple slices, toasted walnuts, dried cranberries (if using), and cheese.
5. Dress Salad: Drizzle maple vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to coat evenly.
6. Serve: Transfer to serving plates or serve family-style in the salad bowl.

How to Serve

Serve as a side dish with roasted chicken, turkey, pork, or alongside grain bowls. It also works well as a light lunch or starter for a multi-course meal.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture.
• Toast walnuts for maximum flavor.
• Toss salad just before serving to prevent greens from wilting.
• Adjust the sweetness of the vinaigrette by adding more or less maple syrup.

Variations

• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, turkey, or tofu for a complete meal.
• Nut Variation: Substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts.
• Fruit Variation: Add pear slices or pomegranate seeds for seasonal flavor.
• Cheese Variation: Use shaved Parmesan or blue cheese instead of feta/goat cheese.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigeration: Store salad ingredients separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days. Do not store dressed salad.
• Freezing: This salad is not suitable for freezing due to fresh greens and apples.

Special Equipment Needed

• Skillet for toasting walnuts
• Small bowl for vinaigrette
• Salad bowl
• Whisk or fork

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use pre-packaged salad greens?
A: Yes, just ensure they are fresh and crisp.

Q2: Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
A: Yes, the maple vinaigrette can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

Q3: Can I use other nuts?
A: Yes, pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts work beautifully.

Q4: Can I omit the cheese?
A: Yes, for a vegan option or lighter version, skip the cheese.

Conclusion

Apple Walnut Salad with Maple Vinaigrette is a fresh, flavorful, and visually appealing salad that combines sweet, tangy, and nutty elements in every bite. With crisp apples, toasted walnuts, mixed greens, and creamy cheese tossed in a lightly sweet maple vinaigrette, it’s perfect for fall, holiday meals, or any day you want a healthy and satisfying side dish. Quick, easy, and versatile, this salad is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their greens with seasonal flavors.