Name: Autumn Apple Walnut Salad with Maple Dijon Vinaigrette
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 4 cups baby spinach or mixed greens; 1 apple, thinly sliced (Gala, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work well); 1/2 cup candied walnuts (or regular toasted walnuts); 1/4 cup dried cranberries; 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (or feta for a tangy option); 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tbsp maple syrup; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; Salt & pepper, to taste

As the crisp air of autumn sets in, nothing captures the essence of the season better than a fresh, vibrant Autumn Apple Walnut Salad. This salad combines the sweet crunch of apples, the richness of candied walnuts, the tang of goat cheese, and the subtle sweetness of dried cranberries. Topped with a delicious Maple Dijon Vinaigrette, the Autumn Apple Walnut Salad is the perfect addition to any meal, whether it’s a light lunch, a festive dinner, or a hearty side dish for your next holiday gathering.

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

4 cups baby spinach or mixed greens
1 apple, thinly sliced (Gala, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work well)
1/2 cup candied walnuts (or regular toasted walnuts)
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (or feta for a tangy option)

For the Maple Dijon Vinaigrette:

3 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp maple syrup
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Salt & pepper, to taste

Preparation:

Step 1: Assemble the Salad
Start by preparing your salad base. In a large salad bowl, arrange 4 cups of baby spinach or mixed greens. The spinach provides a tender and nutrient-rich base, while the mixed greens add variety and texture. Feel free to choose whatever greens you enjoy most. Once your greens are set, move on to adding the toppings.

Step 2: Add the Apples
Thinly slice one apple (Gala, Honeycrisp, or Fuji), making sure to maintain uniform slices for even presentation and texture. Arrange the slices over the greens. The apple’s sweet and crisp nature brings balance to the other rich flavors in the salad.

Step 3: Add the Walnuts and Cranberries
Next, sprinkle 1/2 cup of candied walnuts across the salad. Candied walnuts add a delightful sweetness and crunch, but if you prefer a less sweet option, toasted walnuts work just as well. Follow up by adding 1/4 cup of dried cranberries for a burst of tartness and vibrant color.

Step 4: Crumble the Cheese
For the final touch on the salad itself, crumble 1/4 cup of goat cheese over the mixture. The creamy tang of goat cheese pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the apples and walnuts. Alternatively, if you want a sharper, more tangy flavor, substitute the goat cheese with feta.

Step 5: Make the Vinaigrette
In a small bowl or jar, combine 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Whisk or shake the ingredients together until the vinaigrette is well emulsified. The maple syrup adds a subtle sweetness that complements the apples and walnuts, while the Dijon mustard provides a touch of tang.

Variation:

This salad can be adapted in several ways to suit different tastes. For a protein boost, add grilled chicken, turkey, or even roasted butternut squash for a vegetarian version. You can also experiment with different cheeses like blue cheese or sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor profile. For added texture, toss in some roasted pumpkin seeds or pomegranate arils during the fall season.

Cooking Note:

To save time, the vinaigrette can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure to give it a good shake before using. If you’re using regular toasted walnuts instead of candied ones, you can toast them in a dry pan over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until they’re fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this Autumn Apple Walnut Salad as a light lunch or pair it with a hearty main dish like roasted turkey, grilled chicken, or baked salmon. It’s an excellent side dish for holiday feasts, adding a refreshing contrast to rich mains like ham or prime rib. For an extra touch of autumn flavor, consider serving the Autumn Apple Walnut Salad with warm crusty bread or a pumpkin soup on the side.

Tips:

For maximum flavor, use freshly sliced apples right before serving to avoid browning. A quick dip in lemon water can also help prevent oxidation.
If you’re preparing the salad ahead of time, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to prevent the greens from becoming soggy.
Double the vinaigrette recipe and store it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week. It’s perfect for other salads, or even as a marinade for chicken or pork.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cooking Time:

None

Total Time:

10 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: ~300 kcal
Protein: ~5g
Sodium: ~220mg

FAQs:

Q: Can I make the vinaigrette ahead of time?
A: Yes, the Maple Dijon Vinaigrette can be made up to a week in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Shake or stir it well before using, as the ingredients may separate over time.

Q: Can I substitute the goat cheese?
A: Absolutely! Feta cheese is a fantastic alternative, offering a tangier flavor. If you prefer a milder cheese, you could use soft ricotta or a mild blue cheese for a more intense flavor contrast.

Q: How can I prevent the apples from browning?
A: To prevent apple slices from turning brown, you can toss them in a little lemon juice or a mixture of lemon water before adding them to the salad. This will keep them looking fresh for longer.

Q: What other fruits can I use in place of apples?
A: Pears, especially Bosc or Anjou varieties, are a wonderful alternative to apples in this salad. You can also experiment with fresh figs or pomegranate seeds for a unique twist.

Conclusion:

This Autumn Apple Walnut Salad with Maple Dijon Vinaigrette brings together the best of fall’s flavors in a dish that’s both elegant and simple to prepare. Whether served as a light lunch, a holiday side, or a vibrant starter, the combination of fresh apples, candied walnuts, tangy goat cheese, and sweet-tart cranberries is sure to impress. Topped with the homemade vinaigrette, this salad will quickly become a seasonal favorite, perfect for sharing with family and friends. So, grab your ingredients and savor the taste of autumn in every bite!