Apple and Walnut Salad

A refreshing winter salad featuring crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, and a tangy vinaigrette — perfect as a light appetizer or side dish. This simple yet elegant dish brings together seasonal flavors with a delightful crunch that makes it a standout on any table.

Save

This Apple and Walnut Salad is incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick, healthy lunch, the balance of sweet fruit and savory blue cheese (if you choose to include it) creates a harmonious flavor profile that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 2 large crisp apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), cored and thinly sliced
• 1 small celery stalk, thinly sliced
• 50 g mixed salad greens (e.g., arugula, baby spinach)
• 80 g walnuts, roughly chopped
• 60 g crumbled blue cheese or feta (optional)
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

Step 2: Assemble the Base

In a large salad bowl, combine sliced apples, celery, salad greens, and walnuts.

Step 3: Toss with Dressing

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

Step 4: Add Final Touches

Sprinkle crumbled cheese on top, if using.

Step 5: Serve

Serve immediately for maximum crispness.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For an extra layer of flavor, toast the walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant. This enhances their earthy aroma and makes them even crunchier against the crisp apples.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can easily customize this recipe by substituting pears for the apples. For a festive touch, try adding dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds to bring a pop of color and sweetness to the plate.

Serviervorschläge

This salad is best served immediately to ensure the greens stay crisp. It pairs beautifully with a glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Riesling, which complements the tangy Dijon and apple cider vinaigrette.

Save

Enjoy this vibrant Apple and Walnut Salad as a light winter side dish or a refreshing appetizer. Its blend of textures and tangy dressing makes it a timeless favorite for any occasion.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of apples work best?

Crisp, tart varieties like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji hold their texture well and provide a refreshing contrast to the rich walnuts and tangy dressing.

→ Can I make this ahead?

Prepare dressing and ingredients separately in advance. Toss everything together just before serving to maintain the apples' crispness and prevent wilting greens.

→ Is this suitable for special diets?

Yes—naturally vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free when omitting the cheese. The walnuts provide plant-based protein and healthy fats.

→ What can I substitute for walnuts?

Pecans, almonds, or toasted hazelnuts work beautifully. For nut-free versions, try pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for similar crunch.

→ How do I prevent apples from browning?

Toss sliced apples in a little lemon juice before assembling. The acidity delays oxidation while adding brightness to the final dish.

→ Can I add protein?

Grilled chicken, roasted chickpeas, or goat cheese crumbles transform this light salad into a satisfying main course while keeping flavors balanced.