Name: Apple Walnut Salad
Ingredients: 5 oz spring mix greens (spinach, arugula, or romaine); 2 cups (1 medium) Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apple, thinly sliced; 1 cup toasted walnuts; 6 oz extra sharp cheddar cheese or feta, cubed or crumbled; 1/4 cup sweetened dried cranberries; 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tbsp pure maple syrup; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 2 tbsp finely minced red onion; 1 clove garlic, finely minced; 1/2 tsp coarse kosher salt; 1/4 tsp ground black pepper

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This Apple Walnut Salad is a refreshing celebration of fall flavors. Combining crisp apple slices, toasted walnuts, creamy cheddar, and a tangy maple balsamic vinaigrette over fresh greens, it’s the perfect balance of sweetness, crunch, and creaminess. Ideal for cozy dinners or festive holiday spreads, this dish is quick to prepare and easy to customize with your favorite seasonal ingredients.

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

5 oz spring mix greens (spinach, arugula, or romaine)
2 cups (1 medium) Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apple, thinly sliced
1 cup toasted walnuts
6 oz extra sharp cheddar cheese or feta, cubed or crumbled
1/4 cup sweetened dried cranberries

For the Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette:

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp pure maple syrup
1 tsp Dijon mustard
2 tbsp finely minced red onion
1 clove garlic, finely minced
1/2 tsp coarse kosher salt
1/4 tsp ground black pepper

Directions:

Prepare the Vinaigrette:
- Combine all vinaigrette ingredients in a mason jar.
- Secure the lid tightly and shake until well-mixed. Set aside.
Assemble the Salad:
- Arrange the spring mix greens on a large serving platter or bowl.
- Layer the thinly sliced apples over the greens.
- Sprinkle the toasted walnuts, cubed cheese, and dried cranberries on top.
Add the Dressing:
- Drizzle the salad with 1/4 cup of the prepared vinaigrette, or adjust to taste.
- Serve additional vinaigrette on the side.
Serve:
- Gently toss the salad just before serving to coat the ingredients evenly.
- Enjoy immediately.

Nutritional Information:

Calories: 775 kcal per serving
Servings: 4

This vibrant salad offers a nutrient-dense combination of fiber, healthy fats, and essential vitamins, making it a wholesome and visually appealing addition to any meal.

Apple Walnut Salad: A Seasonal Symphony of Flavors

When it comes to autumn-inspired dishes, the Apple Walnut Salad captures the essence of the season in every bite. With its crisp apples, toasted walnuts, creamy cheese, and tangy-sweet maple balsamic vinaigrette, this salad is more than just a side dish—it’s a delightful sensory experience that bridges health and indulgence. Perfect for cozy dinners, festive holiday spreads, or even casual lunches, this salad has versatility and appeal that makes it a favorite for all occasions.

The Allure of Apple Walnut Salad

What makes this salad truly special is its harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The apples provide a crisp and juicy bite that contrasts beautifully with the earthy crunch of toasted walnuts. Cheddar cheese or feta introduces a creamy, savory note that balances the sweetness of the fruit and vinaigrette, while dried cranberries add a tart accent to the dish. The bed of spring greens, whether you choose spinach, arugula, or romaine, serves as a refreshing canvas for these ingredients, elevating the dish with vibrant color and freshness.

The vinaigrette, a luxurious combination of balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, and olive oil, ties the salad together. This dressing is not just a finishing touch but a crucial element that deepens the flavor profile of the dish. The Dijon mustard and finely minced red onion bring a subtle kick, while garlic adds warmth and depth. The result is a dressing that complements the salad’s ingredients without overpowering their natural flavors.

Health Benefits of Apple Walnut Salad

In addition to its culinary appeal, the Apple Walnut Salad is packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Here are some key health benefits of its ingredients:

Apples: Rich in dietary fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, apples support digestive health, boost immunity, and promote skin vitality. The polyphenols in apples are also linked to reduced inflammation and improved heart health.
Walnuts: These nuts are a powerhouse of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health and reducing inflammation. Walnuts also provide a good source of protein, magnesium, and healthy fats that contribute to cardiovascular wellness.
Cheese: Whether you choose sharp cheddar or feta, cheese adds calcium and protein to the salad. It also provides a creamy texture and umami flavor that enhances satisfaction.
Spring Greens: A mix of spinach, arugula, and romaine delivers a dose of iron, folate, and vitamins A and K. These leafy greens are low in calories but high in essential nutrients, making them a perfect foundation for the salad.
Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette: Olive oil, a key ingredient in the dressing, is renowned for its heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Balsamic vinegar aids digestion and provides a subtle sweetness without added sugar. The maple syrup adds a natural sweetener that is lower on the glycemic index than refined sugar.

Versatility and Customization

One of the standout features of this salad is its adaptability. You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs:

Nuts: Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds for a different crunch and flavor profile.
Cheese: Replace cheddar with goat cheese for a tangier taste or use a dairy-free alternative for a vegan option.
Fruit: Add pomegranate seeds or sliced pears to enhance the sweetness and add a festive flair.
Greens: Experiment with kale or mixed baby greens for added texture and nutrition.
Protein: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make the salad a complete meal.

This flexibility makes the Apple Walnut Salad suitable for various occasions and dietary needs, ensuring it remains a crowd-pleaser no matter the setting.

Presentation Tips

The visual appeal of the Apple Walnut Salad is undeniable. To make it even more stunning for your guests:

Layer thoughtfully: Arrange the ingredients in distinct layers, highlighting the vibrant colors of each component. For example, place the apples in a radial pattern and sprinkle the walnuts and cranberries evenly across the top.
Use a clear bowl or platter: Show off the beautiful layers of greens, fruit, nuts, and cheese.
Serve dressing on the side: This allows guests to customize their portions and keeps the salad fresh for longer.

Pairing Suggestions

The Apple Walnut Salad pairs well with a variety of main dishes and beverages, making it an excellent addition to your meal planning. Serve it alongside:

Roasted meats: Such as turkey, chicken, or pork tenderloin.
Vegetarian mains: Like butternut squash soup or mushroom risotto.
Breads: Warm crusty bread or soft dinner rolls to soak up the vinaigrette.
Drinks: A crisp white wine, sparkling cider, or herbal tea enhances the flavors of the salad.

For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of quinoa or wild rice to add a hearty, earthy element.

Conclusion: A Salad Worth Celebrating

The Apple Walnut Salad is a perfect embodiment of fall’s finest flavors. It’s not just a dish; it’s a celebration of seasonal produce, wholesome ingredients, and culinary creativity. Whether you’re looking for a light starter, a satisfying side, or a nutrient-rich main course, this salad fits the bill. Its vibrant colors, diverse textures, and balanced flavors ensure it’s a hit at any gathering, from weeknight dinners to elegant holiday feasts.

Incorporating this salad into your meal repertoire is not only a nod to healthy eating but also a way to embrace the season’s bounty. With its easy preparation and endless customization possibilities, the Apple Walnut Salad is destined to become a staple that you’ll return to again and again. So, go ahead, savor the crunch, enjoy the creaminess, and relish the tangy sweetness—because this is a dish that truly captures the magic of fall.

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Apple Walnut Salad