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APPLE WALNUT CRANBERRY SALAD centered hero view, clean and uncluttered
Yesica Andrews

Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad Easy Fresh Dinner

Enjoy a vibrant Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad that brings together crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, and tangy cranberries, all tossed in a luscious homemade maple dressing. This easy dinner recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fresh family dinner, delivering a healthy and flavorful salad in under 20 minutes.
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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. Thoroughly rinse the mixed greens and spin or pat them dry to ensure the dressing sticks well.
  2. Cut the apple into thin slices just before mixing to keep them fresh and prevent browning, aiming for uniform thickness.
  3. If you'd like, toast the walnuts briefly in a dry skillet over medium heat for around 3 to 4 minutes until they release a nutty aroma, stirring often.
  4. In a small bowl, combine maple syrup, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper, then whisk vigorously for about half a minute until the dressing is creamy and well blended.
  5. Place the greens, apple slices, walnuts, cranberries, and feta cheese (if using) in a large salad bowl and gently toss to mix.
  6. Pour roughly half of the dressing over the salad, tossing carefully to coat everything evenly; add more dressing according to your preference, saving any leftovers.
  7. Serve the salad straight away to enjoy the best texture and freshness.

Notes

  • Keep salad ingredients and dressing stored separately in sealed containers for up to two days. Only dress the salad right before serving to maintain crispness. Toasting the walnuts elevates their flavor. Use genuine pure maple syrup for the dressing for the best taste. To avoid apple browning if prepping early, toss slices lightly with lemon juice.