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When the air turns cool and the leaves begin to change, there’s nothing better than enjoying a crisp and comforting salad. This recipe brings together sweet apples, crunchy walnuts, and a tangy dressing—creating a cozy meal you’ll want to savor all season long. Let’s dive in and bring a little autumnal warmth to your table.
Ingredients
- 2 crisp apples (such as Gala or Honeycrisp), thinly sliced
- 5 cups mixed greens or baby spinach
- ½ cup walnut halves, toasted
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- ⅓ cup dried cranberries
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
For this “Crunchy Maple-Dijon Apple Walnut Salad,” begin by preparing the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup. Season with a pinch of salt and a few cracks of black pepper, testing to ensure the flavor matches your palate—add a little extra mustard if you love tang, or more syrup if you adore sweetness.
Next, assemble the base of your salad by piling fresh mixed greens into a large serving bowl. Gently layer on the apple slices, toasted walnuts, and dried cranberries. If you’re adding feta cheese, sprinkle it over the top to add a creamy, savory element. Give your dressing another quick whisk, then drizzle it generously over the salad. Toss everything gently to ensure the ingredients are coated in that sweet and tangy goodness.
This delightful salad is perfect for anyone who craves a bright yet comforting dish—especially when the days grow shorter. It offers an excellent source of vitamins and fiber from the apples and greens, while the walnuts pack a beneficial crunch of heart-healthy fats. Feel free to swap spinach for kale, or use blue cheese instead of feta for more bold flavor. If you prefer a vegan version, skip the cheese entirely or try a dairy-free alternative. No matter how you customize, this salad delivers bursts of autumn flavor that will keep you coming back for more.
