Apple and Walnut Salad

This Apple and Walnut Salad is a refreshing winter dish that highlights the natural sweetness of crisp apples and the earthy crunch of walnuts. Tossed in a tangy homemade vinaigrette, it works perfectly as a light appetizer or a sophisticated side dish for any occasion.

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With its vibrant colors and fresh flavors, this salad is an easy way to brighten up your winter menu. It requires only a few pantry staples and fresh produce to create a dish that looks as good as it tastes.

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

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar or lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the dressing is thoroughly emulsified.

Step 2

In a large salad bowl, combine the thinly sliced apples, celery, mixed salad greens, and roughly chopped walnuts.

Step 3

Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and toss everything together gently to ensure even coating.

Step 4

If using cheese, sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese or feta over the top of the salad.

Step 5

Serve the salad immediately to enjoy the maximum crispness of the ingredients.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For extra depth of flavor, you can toast the walnuts in a dry pan for a few minutes before adding them to the salad. To ensure the best texture, always serve the dish immediately after tossing it with the vinaigrette.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is highly adaptable; try substituting pears for the apples to create a different seasonal profile. You can also add dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds for a festive, colorful touch during the holidays.

Serviervorschläge

This salad pairs beautifully with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Riesling. It serves as an elegant starter for a multi-course dinner or a refreshing lunch alongside crusty bread.

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Enjoy this simple yet elegant salad that celebrates fresh, seasonal ingredients with every bite.

Recipe FAQs

→ What apples work best for this salad?

Honeycrisp and Granny Smith apples are ideal choices. Their crisp texture holds up well when sliced and tossed, while providing a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness that complements the tangy vinaigrette.

→ Can I make this dairy-free?

Absolutely. Simply omit the blue cheese or feta. The salad remains delicious and satisfying with just the apples, walnuts, and dressing. You could also add avocado for creaminess without dairy.

→ Should I toast the walnuts?

Toasting walnuts enhances their natural flavor and adds extra crunch. Place them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant. Let cool before adding to the salad.

→ How far ahead can I prepare this?

For maximum crispness, assemble and dress just before serving. However, you can prep ingredients ahead — slice apples, whisk dressing, chop walnuts — and store separately. Apples can be tossed with lemon juice to prevent browning.

→ What other additions work well?

Dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds add festive sweetness and color. Sliced red onion provides sharp contrast. Try substituting pears for apples in autumn, or adding sliced grapes for extra sweetness.