Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad

If you’re looking for a delightful salad that combines freshness, crunch, and a burst of flavor, then this Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad is just what you need! It’s one of my all-time favorites because it’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just want something quick for a busy weeknight dinner, this salad fits the bill perfectly.

This recipe showcases vibrant green apples, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy walnuts, all tossed together in a light vinaigrette. It’s a salad that feels special yet is simple enough for any occasion. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: You can have this salad ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic days.
• Family-Friendly: With its sweet and savory balance, even picky eaters will enjoy every bite!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the ingredients in advance and toss them together right before serving for an easy meal solution.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of apples, cranberries, and walnuts creates a delicious explosion of tastes in every mouthful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making your Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad both nutritious and satisfying. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delicious dish!

For the Salad

• 1 (10-ounce bag) 50% blend mixed greens and spinach (washed)
• 2 green apples (sliced)
• 1-2 teaspoons lemon juice (to prevent apples from browning)
• 1/3 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup gorgonzola cheese (crumbled)
• 1/2 cup walnut pieces (toasted for best flavor)
• Optional: Thinly sliced red onion (adds a sharp, zesty bite)

For the Vinaigrette

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 Tablespoons sugar (or maple syrup, or honey)

Variations

One of the great things about this Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad is its flexibility! Feel free to mix it up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add Protein: Toss in some grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra heartiness.
• Go Vegan: Swap out gorgonzola cheese with a plant-based feta or leave it out entirely for a lighter version.
• Switch Up the Nuts: Try pecans or almonds instead of walnuts for a different crunch.
• Change the Fruit: Use pears instead of apples for a lovely twist on flavors.

How to Make Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together all vinaigrette ingredients until they are well combined. This step is crucial as it gives your salad that bright, tangy kick that complements the sweetness of the apples perfectly!

Step 2: Toast the Walnuts

(Optional) In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the walnut pieces for 3–5 minutes until fragrant. This brings out their rich flavor and adds an irresistible crunch to your salad. Once toasted, set them aside to cool.

Step 3: Slice the Apples

Slice your green apples and toss them with 1–2 teaspoons of lemon juice right away. This little trick prevents them from browning while adding a refreshing zing to each bite!

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine all the salad ingredients—mixed greens, apple slices, dried cranberries, crumbled gorgonzola cheese, walnuts, and red onion if you’re using it. This mix creates layers of flavor and texture that everyone will love.

Step 5: Dress It Up

Drizzle half of your vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Taste and add more dressing if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy that fresh crunch!

Enjoy creating this wonderful Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad! It’s sure to become one of your go-to recipes!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad

Creating a vibrant and tasty Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad is easier than you might think! Here are some pro tips to elevate your salad-making game:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh greens, crisp apples, and high-quality nuts will enhance the flavor and texture of your salad. The freshness ensures a delightful crunch in every bite.
• Toast Your Walnuts: Toasting walnuts can bring out their natural oils and deepen their flavor. This simple step adds a warm, nutty taste that complements the sweetness of the apples and cranberries.
• Customize Your Cheese: If Gorgonzola isn’t your favorite, try substituting it with feta or goat cheese for a different tangy flavor profile. Each cheese adds its unique character to the salad.
• Mix Up the Greens: Feel free to combine different types of greens like arugula or kale with spinach. This not only adds variety but also introduces new flavors and nutrients.
• Add Some Protein: For a heartier salad, consider adding chickpeas or grilled chicken (if you’re not avoiding poultry). This addition transforms your salad into an even more satisfying meal.

How to Serve Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad

Presenting this Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad beautifully can make it even more enjoyable! Here are some creative ideas for serving this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Pomegranate Seeds: Sprinkle some pomegranate seeds on top for a burst of color and an extra layer of sweetness.
• Fresh Herbs: Add chopped fresh parsley or mint for a refreshing touch that enhances the overall flavor.
• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving brightens up the dish with its citrusy aroma and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf, flavored with herbs and vegetables, complements the salad’s textures while adding wholesome grains to your meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes bring warmth and earthiness that pairs nicely with the salad’s crispness.
• Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers filled with zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes are great for adding some smoky flavor alongside your salad.
• Hummus and Pita Chips: Serving a side of creamy hummus with crunchy pita chips is perfect for dipping while enjoying the freshness of your salad.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be ready to impress friends and family with your Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad! Enjoy every delicious bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the components in advance and assemble them just before serving, keeping the ingredients fresh and crisp.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Keep the vinaigrette separate to maintain the salad’s freshness.
• Consume leftovers within 2-3 days for the best taste and texture.

Freezing

• This salad isn’t ideal for freezing due to the greens becoming soggy when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh!
• However, you can freeze the vinaigrette separately; it will last up to 1 month in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating

• Since this salad is served cold, there’s no reheating required. Just toss and serve chilled!
• If using frozen vinaigrette, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before using.

FAQs

If you’re curious about this delightful Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad, here are some common questions:

Can I customize the Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences. You can add or substitute nuts, use different cheese varieties, or even include additional fruits like pears or berries.

What makes Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad special?

The combination of crisp green apples, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy walnuts creates a wonderful mix of textures and flavors that makes this salad a standout dish for any meal!

How long does Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad last?

When stored properly in the fridge, this salad is best consumed within 2-3 days. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve!

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the gorgonzola cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative. The rest of the ingredients are naturally plant-based!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad as much as I do! It’s not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that brighten any meal. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a cozy dinner at home, this salad is sure to impress your family and friends. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!