As the leaves start to change and the air grows crisp, there’s nothing quite like the flavors of fall to brighten up your meals. One of the best ways to enjoy the seasonal bounty is with this delightful Autumn Apple Walnut Salad with Maple Dijon Vinaigrette. This irresistibly sweet and tangy salad pairs fresh greens with crunchy apples and toasted walnuts, underscored by a rich, maple-infused vinaigrette. It’s an autumn classic that captivates the senses and celebrates the vibrant harvest of the season.
This salad isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s also packed with nutritious ingredients that contribute to a wholesome diet. The combination of mixed greens, fresh apples, and hearty walnuts provides essential vitamins and minerals while offering a satisfying crunch with each bite. Plus, it takes no time to prepare—making it an excellent choice for a light lunch, a festive side dish for gatherings, or a healthy meal prep option. As you dive into this colorful ensemble, you’ll feel the warming embrace of fall, carried through the freshness of every ingredient.
Why You’ll Love This Autumn Apple Walnut Salad
- Delicious Flavor Profile: This salad harmoniously blends sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors, making it irresistible.
- Seasonal Freshness: Perfectly captures autumn vibes with its use of fresh apples and seasonal greens.
- Quick & Easy: Assembling this salad takes minimal time, perfect for busy days or surprise guests.
- Nutritious: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, it supports overall wellness while delighting the palate.
- Versatile: Great as a side dish or a light meal, it’s suitable for any occasion.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into creating this Autumn Apple Walnut Salad, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and workspace. Start by gathering all necessary ingredients and tools to streamline the cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need:
1. **Utensils:** A whisk for creating the vinaigrette, a cutting board for chopping, and a large salad bowl for assembling everything.
2. **Cookware:** A dry skillet is required for toasting the walnuts—this step intensifies their flavor and enhances the salad’s overall taste.
3. **Prep Steps:** Ensure your greens are washed and thoroughly dried to maintain their crispness. Slice the apples just before serving to keep their crunch and freshness.
4. **Optional:** If you wish to enhance the apple’s flavor and prevent browning, have some fresh lemon juice on hand for tossing the apple slices.
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or blend)
- 2 apples, thinly sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- ½ cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Vinaigrette
Start by whisking together the olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar in a small mixing bowl. Stir vigorously until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. This vinaigrette serves as the flavor booster for our salad, offering a delightful balance of sweet and tangy notes. Season the vinaigrette with salt and pepper to taste for added flavor depth.
Step 2: Toast the Walnuts
Next, grab a dry skillet and place it over medium heat to toast the walnuts. Spread the walnuts evenly in the skillet and let them cook for about 3-5 minutes. Keep a close eye on them, stirring occasionally, until they become fragrant and slightly golden. Toasting the walnuts not only brings out their nutty flavor but also adds a crunch that pairs beautifully with the salad elements.
Step 3: Prep the Apples
While the walnuts are toasting, prepare your apples by thinly slicing them. If you prefer, toss the apple slices in a bit of lemon juice immediately after slicing; this will not only add a zesty flavor but also prevent them from turning brown. Using crisp varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp will ensure that your salad remains fresh and crunchy.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
Now it’s time for the fun part—bringing everything together! In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced apples, toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, and red onion slices. If you’re a fan of cheese, feel free to fold in the crumbled feta or goat cheese for extra creaminess and flavor. Toss the ingredients gently to combine, ensuring that every piece is evenly distributed.
Step 5: Dress and Toss
Drizzle the prepared Maple Dijon Vinaigrette over the assembled salad. Be generous with the dressing, but remember, you can always add more later if necessary. Toss everything together gently to coat the salad evenly with the vinaigrette. Take care not to bruise the greens or apples while mixing.
Step 6: Serve Fresh
Once everything is combined and well-dressed, plate your salad immediately. This ensures that the textures remain crisp and fresh, offering the best possible experience. The vibrant colors and fragrant aromas will make this salad a hit at any table!
Variations
- Protein: Add grilled chicken, sliced turkey, or chickpeas for a more filling salad.
- Vegetables: Consider tossing in thinly sliced carrots or roasted butternut squash for added texture and sweetness.
- Spices: For a kick, sprinkle some chili flakes or black pepper when mixing the salad.
Cooking Notes
- Always taste the vinaigrette before dressing the salad to adjust seasonings according to your preference.
- You can prepare the vinaigrette a day ahead and refrigerate it; just give it a good shake before using.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair the salad with crusty bread to mop up the vinaigrette.
- Serve it alongside a warm soup for a comforting fall meal.
Tips
- Be gentle while tossing the salad to keep the greens and apple slices intact.
- Experiment with different nut varieties like pecans or almonds for a unique spin.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 150mg
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. It’s best to dress the salad right before serving to keep the greens fresh.
What type of apples are best for this salad?
Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples work best, offering a flavor balance of sweet and tart.
Is the vinaigrette adjustable?
Absolutely! Feel free to add more maple syrup for sweetness or vinegar for tanginess as per your personal preference.
Can I include other fruits?
Yes! Pears or pomegranate seeds would also be delightful additions to this fall salad.
Conclusion
This Autumn Apple Walnut Salad with Maple Dijon Vinaigrette is an embodiment of fall’s wholesome flavors and vibrant colors. It’s not just a dish—it’s a celebration of the season. With each bite, you savor the delightful contrast of textures, from the fresh greens to the crispy walnuts and juicy apples. Don’t hesitate to experiment with varieties, or even share this recipe with friends and family; it’s sure to become a staple in your seasonal repertoire. Share your experiences, try out different variations, and don’t forget to let us know how much you loved this recipe!
Print
Autumn Apple Walnut Salad with Maple Dijon Vinaigrette
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Autumn Apple Walnut Salad with Maple Dijon Vinaigrette is a delightful blend of fresh greens, apples, and walnuts, dressed with a sweet and tangy vinaigrette.
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or blend)
- 2 apples, thinly sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- ½ cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Start by whisking together the olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar in a small mixing bowl. Stir vigorously until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. This vinaigrette serves as the flavor booster for our salad, offering a delightful balance of sweet and tangy notes. Season the vinaigrette with salt and pepper to taste for added flavor depth.
- Next, grab a dry skillet and place it over medium heat to toast the walnuts. Spread the walnuts evenly in the skillet and let them cook for about 3-5 minutes. Keep a close eye on them, stirring occasionally, until they become fragrant and slightly golden. Toasting the walnuts not only brings out their nutty flavor but also adds a crunch that pairs beautifully with the salad elements.
- While the walnuts are toasting, prepare your apples by thinly slicing them. If you prefer, toss the apple slices in a bit of lemon juice immediately after slicing; this will not only add a zesty flavor but also prevent them from turning brown. Using crisp varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp will ensure that your salad remains fresh and crunchy.
- Now it’s time for the fun part—bringing everything together! In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced apples, toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, and red onion slices. If you’re a fan of cheese, feel free to fold in the crumbled feta or goat cheese for extra creaminess and flavor. Toss the ingredients gently to combine, ensuring that every piece is evenly distributed.
- Drizzle the prepared Maple Dijon Vinaigrette over the assembled salad. Be generous with the dressing, but remember, you can always add more later if necessary. Toss everything together gently to coat the salad evenly with the vinaigrette. Take care not to bruise the greens or apples while mixing.
- Once everything is combined and well-dressed, plate your salad immediately. This ensures that the textures remain crisp and fresh, offering the best possible experience. The vibrant colors and fragrant aromas will make this salad a hit at any table!
Notes
Consider tasting the vinaigrette before dressing the salad to ensure it meets your taste preferences.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Protein: 6 g