Laura Mariano
Autumn Apple Salad embodies the essence of fall with its vibrant colors, crisp textures, and a delightful blend of seasonal flavors. This salad typically features fresh apples, mixed greens, dried cranberries, nuts, and a tangy-sweet dressing, making it a perfect addition to autumn menus. It’s a refreshing yet comforting dish that celebrates the bounty of the season, offering a balance of sweetness from the apples and cranberries, richness from the nuts, and a savory touch from the cheese, all tied together with a harmonious dressing. Perfect for gatherings or as a refreshing lunch option, Autumn Apple Salad brings a taste of fall to your table.
Ingredients
- For the Salad:
- 2 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), thinly sliced
- 6 cups mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, or a spring mix)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (toasted, if desired)
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese or feta
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Salad:
- In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, apple slices, dried cranberries, nuts, cheese, and red onion.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Assemble the Salad:
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, and enjoy the fresh, crisp flavors of this autumn-inspired salad.
Variations
- Add Protein: Consider adding grilled chicken, turkey, or bacon bits for extra protein.
- Fruit Alternatives: Pears or pomegranate seeds can be used instead of apples.
- Cheese Alternatives: Goat cheese or sharp cheddar can be substituted for blue cheese or feta.
