Apple Walnut Salad Recipe (Crispy And Crunchy Taste) – Soup Chick
When the days start to cool and the leaves dance with hues of amber and rust, I find myself reminiscing about the simple joys that bring warmth to our hearts. One of those joys is my cherished Apple Walnut Salad Recipe (Crispy And Crunchy Taste) from Soup Chick, a dish that captures the essence of fall in every bite. Imagine the tartness of crisp apples mingling with the rich, toasted goodness of walnuts, all while a light dressing ties the flavors together in a delightful embrace. This salad is more than just a recipe; it is a tapestry of memories shared around the table, laughter echoing through the air, and the heartwarming feeling of togetherness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Now, why should you whip up this Apple Walnut Salad? Let me tell you, it’s not just about the delicious taste—though that certainly is a reason good enough on its own! Here’s why this recipe holds a special place in my heart and why it will surely find its way into your family gatherings:
- Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 20 minutes, this salad is perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute guests.
- A Crowd-Pleaser: Its colorful presentation and crunchy texture make it a hit at gatherings, from cozy family dinners to festive holiday feasts.
- Nutritious and Satisfying: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and good fats, it’s a healthy option without skimping on taste.
- Endless Versatility: This comforting dish can be adapted for any season, making it a favorite all year round.
- Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a summer barbecue, this salad brings families together, sparking joy and connection.
Ingredients with Notes
To create this culinary delight, you’ll need the following ingredients. Don’t worry; I’ll also suggest substitutions where you may want a little twist!
- 2 large crisp apples (I love using Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for that perfect balance of tart and sweet.)
- 1 cup walnuts (Toast these for a richer flavor! Pecans can also be a delightful alternative.)
- 4 cups mixed greens (A mix of arugula and spinach adds a peppery punch.)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (For a savory kick; goat cheese works beautifully, too.)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries (These add a chewy sweetness; feel free to swap in raisins.)
- 1/4 cup olive oil (Extra virgin will elevate the taste.)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (A splash of lemon juice can be used for a zesty twist.)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (for toasting the walnuts)
- Total Time: 20 minutes
This recipe is perfect for busy days or those impromptu dinners when you want something delicious fast!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Let’s dive into the preparation! You’ll notice the kitchen buzzing with excitement as the aroma of toasted walnuts fills the air.
-
Toast the Walnuts: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the walnuts evenly on a baking sheet. Toast them for about 8-10 minutes, tossing halfway through, until they are fragrant and golden-brown. Keep an eye on them, as they can burn quickly!
-
Prepare the Greens: In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens. You can be creative here; if you have leftover veggies, toss them in!
-
Chop the Apples: Core and slice your apples. There’s something joyful about chopping apples; the sound of the knife against the board feels like music. Don’t worry about uniformity; a rustic cut adds charm.
-
Combine Ingredients: Add the sliced apples, toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, and feta cheese to the bowl of greens.
-
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Pour it over your salad just before serving to maintain that beautiful crunch.
-
Toss and Serve: Gently toss everything together, coating the salad in the delightful dressing. The colors will brighten your kitchen, and the textures will make your heart sing.
Tips and Variations
- Healthier Swaps: For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt in place of the feta or substitute honey for the cranberries.
- Seasonal Upscale: In fall, add roasted butternut squash; in the summer, fresh blueberries enhance the salad’s sweetness.
- Dressing Additions: Try adding a teaspoon of mustard or a dash of garlic powder to the dressing for added flavor depth.
Serving Ideas
This Apple Walnut Salad is as versatile as it is delicious. Serve it as a refreshing side to roast chicken or grilled salmon. Pair it with a glass of white wine for a delightful evening al fresco or as a light lunch with some crusty bread. Best enjoyed while surrounded by loved ones, sharing stories and laughter, just as I do with my family.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers (if you’re lucky!), store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, I suggest keeping the dressing separate until you are ready to serve for maximum freshness.
Chef’s Pro Tips
- Don’t Skip Toasting the Nuts: This enhances their flavor significantly and adds an irresistible crunch.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Seasonal produce always elevates the dish; visit your local farmer’s market!
- Balance Flavors: Taste your dressing before adding; adjust sweetness or acidity according to your preference.
FAQs
- Can I make this salad ahead of time?: To keep the freshness, prepare the ingredients but wait to toss with dressing until serving.
- What can I substitute for walnuts?: You can swap walnuts for pecans, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
- Can I add protein?: Absolutely! Grilled chicken or chickpeas can turn this into a complete meal.
Conclusion
As you gather around your table with this Apple Walnut Salad Recipe (Crispy And Crunchy Taste), remember that food is a thread that weaves us together. Enjoy the laughter, the stories, and the flavors that this salad brings. Share it with your loved ones, and you’ll find that some recipes become cherished traditions, creating lasting memories in the process. Happy cooking!
Contents
Apple Walnut Salad
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 large large crisp apples Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work well for a perfect balance.
- 1 cup walnuts Toast these for a richer flavor; pecans can be used as an alternative.
- 4 cups mixed greens A mix of arugula and spinach adds a peppery punch.
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese Goat cheese works beautifully too.
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries Feel free to swap in raisins.
- 1/4 cup olive oil Extra virgin will elevate the taste.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar A splash of lemon juice can be used for a zesty twist.
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust according to taste.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the walnuts evenly on a baking sheet. Toast them for about 8-10 minutes, tossing halfway through, until they are fragrant and golden-brown.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens. Feel free to add any leftover veggies you may have.
- Core and slice the apples into desired shapes and add them to the bowl.
- Add the toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, and crumbled feta cheese to the bowl of greens.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Pour it over your salad just before serving.
- Gently toss everything together until well combined and the salad is coated in the dressing.
Notes
Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.