Autumn Apple Walnut Salad with Maple Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe
A refreshing and vibrant Autumn Apple Walnut Salad featuring mixed greens, crisp apple slices, toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, and optional crumbled feta or goat cheese, all tossed in a sweet and tangy maple Dijon vinaigrette. Perfect for a light lunch or a festive side dish during the fall season.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
For the Salad:
- 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
For the Maple Dijon Vinaigrette:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar until smooth and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then set aside.
- Toast the Walnuts: Heat a small skillet over medium heat and add the chopped walnuts. Toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become fragrant and slightly golden. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Slice the Apples: Thinly slice the apples using a sharp knife or mandoline. For extra tartness, use Granny Smith apples; for a sweeter touch, use Honeycrisp. Optionally toss the apple slices in a little lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced apples, toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, and thinly sliced red onions. If using, sprinkle the crumbled feta or goat cheese on top.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the maple Dijon vinaigrette over the salad. Gently toss with tongs or two large spoons to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Serve: Transfer the tossed salad to individual plates or serve family-style in a large bowl. Enjoy fresh to maintain the crispness of the apples and greens.
Notes
- To keep apple slices from browning, toss them in lemon juice immediately after slicing.
- For a nuttier flavor, you can substitute walnuts with pecans.
- Feta or goat cheese is optional but adds a creamy balance to the sweet and tart elements.
- This salad is best served fresh; avoid dressing too far in advance to maintain crispness.
- Feel free to add grilled chicken or turkey for a protein boost, making it a light meal.
Keywords: Autumn salad, apple walnut salad, maple Dijon vinaigrette, fall salad, healthy salad, mixed greens salad
