Autumn Apple Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Autumn Apple Salad is a refreshing and vibrant mix of crisp apples, crunchy nuts, creamy cheese, and hearty greens, perfectly balanced with a tangy-sweet vinaigrette. This salad captures the essence of fall with every bite and makes a colorful, nutritious addition to any table—whether as a side dish or a light main course.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

mixed salad greens
crisp apples (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji), thinly sliced
candied pecans or walnuts
crumbled feta or goat cheese
dried cranberries
red onion, thinly sliced
apple cider vinegar
Dijon mustard
honey or maple syrup
olive oil
salt and black pepper

directions

In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced apples, candied nuts, cheese, cranberries, and red onion.

In a separate small bowl or jar, whisk together apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the vinaigrette.

Pour the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.

Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and best texture.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4-6 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

Add grilled chicken or roasted turkey slices for a heartier meal.
Swap feta or goat cheese with blue cheese for a bolder taste.
Use pears instead of apples for a different fall flavor.
Add roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes for extra warmth and texture.
Top with pumpkin seeds for an extra autumn touch.

storage/reheating

Store undressed salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Keep the vinaigrette separate and add just before serving.
Dressed salad is best enjoyed immediately to prevent sogginess.

FAQs

What apples are best for this salad?
Crisp, sweet-tart apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala work best.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the components separately and assemble just before serving.

What’s a good substitute for apple cider vinegar?
You can use white wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar, but the flavor will vary slightly.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Dried cranberries are preferred for their sweetness and texture, but fresh can be used if lightly sweetened.

Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free—just check that your nuts and cheese don’t have added gluten.

Conclusion

Autumn Apple Salad is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that celebrate the best of the fall harvest. With its crunchy textures and bright flavors, it’s a crowd-pleasing favorite for seasonal gatherings, holiday meals, or everyday lunches.

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