Description
This vibrant Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad is a refreshing blend of juicy apples, creamy feta cheese, crunchy walnuts, and mixed greens, all tossed in a zesty homemade vinaigrette. Perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or as a crowd-pleasing side, this salad strikes the ideal balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors while adding a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Salad
- 1 large Honeycrisp apple, thinly sliced
- 5 oz (about 6 cups) mixed salad greens
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/3 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)
Vinaigrette
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the vinaigrette: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Continue to whisk until the dressing is fully emulsified and well blended. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Assemble the greens: Place the mixed salad greens into a large serving bowl. Add the sliced Honeycrisp apple, red onion, walnuts, and dried cranberries if using. Gently toss everything together so the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Add the feta: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad. Be gentle to avoid breaking up the cheese too much, maintaining larger crumbles for best bites.
- Dress and toss: Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the salad just before serving. Using salad tongs, toss everything together lightly until all ingredients are lightly coated with dressing. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Substitute pecans or almonds for walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
- Try goat cheese in place of feta for a creamier twist.
- Add grilled chicken or chickpeas to make this salad a heartier meal.
- If assembling ahead, wait to slice the apple and toss with dressing to keep it crisp and fresh.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of salad
- Calories: 235
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 285mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 13mg
