As I placed the vibrant bowl of salad on the table, the autumn colors brightened the whole room, drawing everyone’s attention. This Fall Apple Walnut Salad is a delightful celebration of the season, combining tender mixed greens with sweet-tart apple slices and crunchy toasted walnuts, all glistening under a luscious maple-Dijon vinaigrette. What I love most about this recipe is how effortlessly it comes together; perfect for those busy weeknights or even festive gatherings. Plus, it’s vegetarian and gluten-free, making it a crowd-pleaser for everyone at the table. With each bite, you’ll revel in the blend of textures and flavors, and the joy of using fresh, seasonal produce. Are you ready to transform your autumn salads?
Why is This Salad a Fall Favorite?
Vibrant, Seasonal Ingredients: This Apple Walnut Salad showcases the best of fall produce, with crisp apples that add sweetness and seasonal flair.
Quick Preparation: In just minutes, you can whip this up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Nourishing & Light: With only 224 calories per serving, it’s a healthful choice packed with nutrients, ideal for those mindful of their diet.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of sweet-tart apples, crunchy walnuts, and creamy goat cheese tantalizes the taste buds, appealing to all palettes.
Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or as a complement to roasted meats or grains, just like my beloved Cornbread Salad Southern for a delightful feast!
Apple Walnut Salad Ingredients
Here’s what you need to create this scrumptious Apple Walnut Salad:
For the Dressing
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Adds richness and depth; substitute with avocado oil for a milder taste.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Provides acidity and brightness; swap with white wine vinegar or lemon juice if needed.
- Maple Syrup – Naturally sweetens the dressing; honey or agave syrup can be used as alternatives.
- Dijon Mustard – Adds tang and enhances the vinaigrette; yellow mustard can substitute in a pinch.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances overall flavor; sea salt works well as an alternative.
- Ground Cinnamon – Introduces warmth and spice; optional for a brighter salad profile.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds seasoning; pre-ground can be used for convenience.
For the Salad
- Coarsely Chopped Walnuts – Provides a crunchy texture; pecans can be a delightful substitute.
- Finely Diced Medium Shallot – Adds sharpness and onion flavor; red onion is a suitable substitute if needed.
- Mixed Greens – The base of your salad; arugula or baby spinach are great choices, kale for a hearty option.
- Sweet-Tart Apple – Adds sweetness and crunch; Honeycrisp or Pink Lady are recommended, Granny Smith for tartness.
- Dried Cranberries or Cherries – Adds chewiness and a burst of sweetness; raisins or other dried fruit also work.
- Roasted Pumpkin Seeds – Introduces a savory crunch; sunflower seeds can be used if necessary.
- Fresh Goat Cheese – Adds creaminess and tang; feta cheese makes a lovely alternative.
Gather these ingredients to craft an inviting, flavorful Apple Walnut Salad that celebrates the tastes of fall!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Walnut Salad
Step 1: Prepare Dressing
In a jar, combine 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, a pinch of ground cinnamon, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Seal the jar tightly and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until the dressing is well blended and emulsified. The dressing should be smooth and glossy, enhancing the flavors of your Apple Walnut Salad.
Step 2: Toast Walnuts
Preheat a skillet over medium heat and add 1 cup coarsely chopped walnuts. Stir the walnuts frequently for 3–4 minutes until they are golden brown and emit a fragrant aroma. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning. Once toasted, remove them from the heat and spread them on a plate to cool slightly before adding to the salad for that delightful crunch.
Step 3: Assemble Salad Base
In a large bowl, place 6 cups of mixed greens, ideally a combination of arugula and baby spinach for flavor and texture. Add 1 finely diced medium shallot to the greens for a burst of sharpness. Drizzle half of the prepared dressing over the greens and gently toss with salad tongs until everything is lightly coated, ensuring you have a fresh base for your Apple Walnut Salad.
Step 4: Add Toppings
Next, slice 1 sweet-tart apple, preferably Honeycrisp or Pink Lady, and arrange the slices on top of the dressed greens. Sprinkle in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries or cherries, 1/4 cup of roasted pumpkin seeds, and 1/3 cup of crumbled fresh goat cheese for creaminess. This combination elevates the visual appeal of your Apple Walnut Salad while offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures.
Step 5: Final Touches
Drizzle the remaining dressing over the assembled salad, ensuring it has a glossy finish. Add the toasted walnuts on top for that satisfying crunch. Give the salad a gentle toss right before serving, making sure every bite is flavorful and fresh. This Apple Walnut Salad is best enjoyed immediately to appreciate the crispness of the greens and the vibrant tastes of the toppings.
Make Ahead Options
The Apple Walnut Salad is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy days! You can prepare the dressing up to 3 days in advance; simply mix the ingredients in a jar and refrigerate to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can toast the walnuts and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. To make the salad even easier, wash and chop the mixed greens and shallots, then refrigerate them in a sealed bag for 1-2 days prior to serving. When you’re ready to enjoy your Apple Walnut Salad, just toss everything together with the dressing, and you’ll have a delightful dish that tastes just as fresh as when made the same day!
How to Store and Freeze Apple Walnut Salad
Fridge: The assembled salad can be kept in an airtight container for up to 3 days. However, dress the salad just before serving to maintain freshness and crunch.
Dressing Storage: You can prepare the maple-Dijon vinaigrette ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Shake well before using.
Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze the assembled salad, as ingredients like mixed greens and apples may become soggy when thawed.
Reheating: If using any added proteins like grilled chicken, ensure they are reheated thoroughly before serving on the salad for a fresh meal experience.
Expert Tips for Apple Walnut Salad
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Toast Wisely: Make sure to toast walnuts carefully over medium heat. Stir frequently to achieve maximum flavor without burning, ensuring your Apple Walnut Salad has that delightful crunch.
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Dressing Technique: Always shake the dressing vigorously until well mixed before drizzling over the salad. A well-emulsified dressing enhances the Apples and greens’ flavors beautifully.
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Timing is Key: Dress the salad just before serving to prevent the mixed greens from wilting. This keeps your Apple Walnut Salad fresh and vibrant for everyone to enjoy.
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Keep it Seasonal: Feel free to experiment with seasonal apples for variety. Every type will lend a different flavor, making each version of your Apple Walnut Salad uniquely delicious.
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Experiment with Textures: Add ingredients like crispy bacon or crunchy apple slices for extra depth. Don’t shy away from enhancing your Apple Walnut Salad with different textures!
What to Serve with Fall Apple Walnut Salad
As the warmth of your kitchen fills the air, it’s time to think about perfect pairings that will elevate your meal.
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Creamy Goat Cheese Tart: Rich and buttery, this tart adds an elegant touch, matching the creaminess of the goat cheese in your salad.
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Herb-Roasted Chicken: Juicy, flavorful chicken seasoned with fresh herbs complements the nuttiness of walnuts and the sweetness of apples beautifully.
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Wild Rice Pilaf: Earthy and chewy, this warm side brings a comforting texture that pairs perfectly with the crisp salad.
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Cranberry Orange Muffins: A slightly sweet and zesty muffin echoes the cranberries in your salad, while offering a delightful treat to round out your meal.
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Maple-Glazed Roasted Carrots: Tender and caramelized, these sweet carrots harmonize with the maple notes in the vinaigrette, enhancing your fall feast.
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Sparkling Cider: Light and refreshing, this bubbly drink acts as a delightful palate cleanser, perfect for accompanying the sweet and savory flavors of the salad.
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Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake: For dessert, this dreamy cheesecake blends seasonal spices with creamy goodness, making for an indulgent finish to your cozy meal.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Crunchy on the outside and soft inside, these breadsticks provide a satisfying texture, balancing the lightness of the salad.
Apple Walnut Salad Variations & Substitutions
Embrace the creativity of cooking by customizing this delightful Apple Walnut Salad to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs!
- Dairy-Free: Omit goat cheese entirely or swap for a creamy cashew cheese for a delightful twist.
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for heartiness, making this salad even more satisfying.
- Flavorful Greens: Mix in kale or watercress instead of mixed greens for an earthy undertone that beautifully complements the sweetness of the apples.
- Sweetness Swap: Use maple syrup in the dressing or honey for a natural sweetener that brings delightful depth.
- Additional Crunch: Incorporate crispy bacon bits for a savory contrast, or sunflower seeds for an extra layer of texture.
- Herb Twist: Add fresh herbs like parsley or mint for a burst of freshness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Warm Option: Serve the salad with warm roasted sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a cozy fall dish that’s perfect for cooler days.
- Fruity Addition: Toss in fresh pomegranate seeds or sliced strawberries for a fruity burst that adds color and sweetness.
Explore these variations while enjoying your Apple Walnut Salad, and feel free to pair it with other delightful dishes like my favorite Ditalini Pasta Salad for a magnificent meal!
Apple Walnut Salad Recipe FAQs
What type of apples are best for this salad?
When selecting apples for your Apple Walnut Salad, I highly recommend using Honeycrisp or Pink Lady for their sweet-tart balance and crisp texture. If you prefer a more tart flavor, Granny Smith apples also work well. Be sure to choose firm apples without any bruises or dark spots for the best results!
How should I store leftovers of the Apple Walnut Salad?
The assembled salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, it’s crucial to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to enjoy it to maintain the freshness and crunch of the greens. Toss it right before serving for the best taste!
Can I prepare the dressing in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the maple-Dijon vinaigrette ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just give it a good shake before using, as the ingredients can separate while resting. Having the dressing ready to go makes putting together your Apple Walnut Salad a breeze!
Is it possible to freeze this salad?
Freezing the assembled Apple Walnut Salad is not recommended, as ingredients like mixed greens and apples can become mushy and unappetizing once thawed. Instead, consider freezing just the proteins like grilled chicken separately if you wish, then add it fresh when ready to serve.
What should I know about allergies with this salad?
If you’re preparing this salad for someone with dietary restrictions, be mindful of nuts, dairy, and vinegar. You can easily make this salad nut-free by omitting the walnuts or substituting them with crunchy seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds. For a dairy-free option, simply skip the goat cheese or replace it with a dairy-free cheese alternative.
What if my walnuts burn while toasting?
If you accidentally burn your walnuts, don’t be discouraged! Just toss them out and start over. The key to toasting nuts is to keep a close eye on them and stir frequently, using medium heat for about 3-4 minutes until they’re fragrant but not burnt. Toasted walnuts add so much flavor to your Apple Walnut Salad!
Crisp and Creamy Apple Walnut Salad for Cozy Fall Days
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a jar, combine the dressing ingredients and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until well blended.
- Preheat a skillet over medium heat and toast the walnuts for 3–4 minutes until golden brown.
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens and shallot, drizzle with half the dressing, and toss gently.
- Slice the apple and arrange on the salads, adding cranberries, pumpkin seeds, and goat cheese.
- Drizzle the remaining dressing and add walnuts on top, gently toss before serving.
