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APPLE WALNUT CRANBERRY SALAD centered hero view, clean and uncluttered
Olivia Farnsworth

Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad Perfect Fresh Easy Dinner

This Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad is a fresh and simple recipe perfect for an easy dinner or a family meal. Featuring crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, and tart cranberries tossed with a homemade maple dressing, it makes a vibrant and healthy fresh salad option any weeknight or special occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 57 g Mixed greens spinach or arugula about 2 cups
  • 200 g Apple 1 large thinly sliced Honeycrisp or Fuji preferred
  • 50 g Walnuts roughly chopped about 1/2 cup
  • 40 g Dried cranberries about 1/4 cup
  • 30 g Feta cheese crumbled optional about 1/4 cup
  • 30 ml Pure maple syrup about 2 tablespoons
  • 30 ml Extra virgin olive oil about 2 tablespoons
  • 15 ml Apple cider vinegar about 1 tablespoon
  • 5 ml Dijon mustard about 1 teaspoon
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Rinse the mixed greens and dry thoroughly using a salad spinner or clean towels to ensure dressing sticks properly.
  2. Cut the apple into thin slices right before adding to the salad to avoid browning and maintain freshness.
  3. Toast the walnuts lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes until they release a nice aroma, stirring often to prevent burning.
  4. Combine maple syrup, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl and whisk briskly for about 30 seconds until the dressing is creamy and well blended.
  5. In a big bowl, carefully mix the greens, apple slices, toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, and feta cheese if using.
  6. Pour about half of the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly, adding more dressing to your liking.
  7. Serve the salad right away for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Keep salad ingredients and dressing stored separately in airtight containers for up to two days. Dress only what you intend to eat immediately. Toasting walnuts intensifies their flavor. Use pure maple syrup for the best taste. To avoid apple slices browning if preparing early, toss them with lemon juice.