Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Autumn Apple Salad is a fresh, crisp, and colorful dish that captures the essence of fall. With a mix of sweet apples, crunchy nuts, dried fruit, and tangy dressing, this salad is perfect as a side dish or light lunch. It balances textures and flavors beautifully, making it a favorite for gatherings or everyday meals during the cooler months.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
apples (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji)
mixed salad greens (spinach, arugula, or romaine)
crumbled feta or goat cheese
candied pecans or walnuts
dried cranberries
red onion (thinly sliced)
apple cider vinaigrette (store-bought or homemade with apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper)
directions
Wash and core the apples, then thinly slice or chop them.
In a large salad bowl, combine the salad greens, apple slices, cheese, nuts, dried cranberries, and red onion.
Drizzle with apple cider vinaigrette just before serving.
Toss gently to combine and coat all ingredients evenly.
Serve immediately to keep the apples fresh and crisp.
Servings and timing
Serves 4–6
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
Add grilled chicken or turkey for protein.
Substitute pears for apples for a twist.
Use blue cheese instead of feta for a bolder flavor.
Top with roasted butternut squash or sweet potato for a heartier version.
Swap the vinaigrette for a creamy poppy seed or maple Dijon dressing.
storage/reheating
Store leftover salad (without dressing) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Keep the dressing separate to avoid sogginess.
Do not freeze, as fresh greens and apples do not freeze well.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prep the components and store separately. Combine just before serving.
How do I keep apples from browning?
Toss apple slices with a little lemon juice before adding to the salad.
What kind of apples work best?
Crisp, sweet-tart apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Pink Lady are ideal.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, simply omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but double-check packaged items like dressing or nuts.
Conclusion
Autumn Apple Salad is a vibrant and refreshing way to celebrate seasonal produce. With its sweet and savory flavors, crunchy textures, and customizable ingredients, it’s a delicious addition to any fall menu. Enjoy it as a side or make it the star of your meal—it’s sure to become a seasonal staple.
Print
Autumn Apple Salad
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossed
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and crisp salad featuring sweet apples, crunchy nuts, and tangy vinaigrette—perfect for autumn gatherings or a light, healthy meal.
Ingredients
- 2 large apples, thinly sliced
- 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or romaine)
- 1/2 cup pecans or walnuts, toasted
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- In a large salad bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced apples, red onion, dried cranberries, and toasted nuts.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
- Sprinkle crumbled cheese on top before serving.
Notes
- Use a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for best flavor.
- Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier version.
- The dressing can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days.