Name: Apple Walnut Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3/4 cup raw walnut halves; 2 small apples (like Honeycrisp), cored and thinly sliced; 4 ounces baby arugula; 3 Belgian endives, thinly sliced; 1/3 cup dried cranberries or golden raisins; 3 ounces crumbled feta or blue cheese; 1 small shallot, finely chopped; 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup; Salt and ground cinnamon

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Crisp apples, toasty walnuts, and creamy feta or blue cheese make this Apple Walnut Salad ideal for holidays and parties. Its vibrant colors and flavors are a feast for the eyes and the palate. This salad is not only beautiful but also simple to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion, from Thanksgiving gatherings to summer picnics.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
Flavorful Combination: The mix of sweet apples, crunchy walnuts, and creamy cheese creates a delightful taste experience.
Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side dish or main course; this salad fits various meal types.
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, this salad is both tasty and good for you.
Eye-Catching Presentation: The colorful ingredients make this salad a stunning centerpiece for your table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your apple walnut salad, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Chef’s knife
Cutting board
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes slicing apples and chopping walnuts easier and safer.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without spilling.
Whisk: Ideal for mixing dressing evenly, ensuring every ingredient blends well.

Ingredients

Crisp apples, toasty walnuts, and creamy feta or blue cheese make this apple walnut salad ideal for holidays and parties. Simple and beautiful!

Ingredients:
– 3/4 cup raw walnut halves
– 2 small apples or 1 large apple (cored and thinly sliced (recommended: Honeycrisp))
– 4 ounces baby arugula (about 4 tightly packed cups)
– 3 Belgian endives (about 6 ounces)
– 1/3 cup dried cranberries or golden raisins
– 3 ounces crumbled gorgonzola, goat cheese, or feta (about a generous 1/2 cup)
– 1 small shallot (very finely chopped)
– 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
– 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

How to Make Apple Walnut Salad

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spread the walnuts into a single layer on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the nuts smell fragrant and toasty, becoming crisp. Immediately transfer them to a cutting board to cool before roughly chopping.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients:
1. Add finely chopped shallot.
2. Pour in extra virgin olive oil.
3. Mix in red wine vinegar, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt.
Add the apple slices into the bowl and toss gently to coat them with the dressing.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad Base

In a large serving bowl, place the baby arugula as your base. Thinly cut the Belgian endive crosswise into very thin rounds; you should have about three cups. Add these endive rounds to the bowl with arugula.

Step 4: Incorporate Other Ingredients

Add half each of the dried cranberries, cheese, and toasted walnuts into the salad mixture.

Step 5: Toss with Dressing

Scoop apple slices into the salad using a spoon (some dressing will cling to them). Add additional spoonfuls of dressing if needed; toss carefully until everything is coated without overdressing.

Step 6: Final Touches

Sprinkle remaining cranberries, cheese, and walnuts over the top of your salad. Lightly toss once more. Taste your creation; add more salt if needed based on your cheese choice. Enjoy immediately with any leftover dressing on the side!

How to Serve Apple Walnut Salad

Apple walnut salad is a versatile dish that can brighten up any meal. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or enjoying a casual dinner, here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your apple walnut salad experience.

As a Starter

Serve small portions as a refreshing appetizer to whet the appetite before the main course.

With Grilled Chicken

Pair this salad with grilled chicken for a satisfying and nutritious meal. The flavors of the apples and walnuts complement the savory chicken beautifully.

On a Buffet Table

Place the apple walnut salad on your buffet table during parties. It adds color and variety, enticing guests to fill their plates.

With Fresh Bread

Offer slices of crusty bread alongside the salad. Guests can enjoy dipping the bread in leftover dressing for an extra treat.

As a Side Dish

Serve it as a side dish with roasted meats or fish. The crunchiness of the apples and walnuts balances well with rich proteins.

How to Perfect Apple Walnut Salad

To ensure your apple walnut salad reaches its full potential, consider these handy tips for preparation and presentation.

Choose fresh ingredients: Use crisp, high-quality apples and fresh greens for the best flavor and texture.
Toast the walnuts: Toasting enhances the nutty flavor of walnuts, making them even more delicious in your salad.
Dress just before serving: To keep greens crisp, add dressing right before serving rather than letting it sit too long.
Vary your cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or gorgonzola for unique flavor profiles that suit your taste.
Add seasonal fruits: Consider adding other fruits like pears or pomegranates for added color and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Walnut Salad

Apple walnut salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some excellent options to complement your meal.

Grilled Salmon: A light and flaky fish that works perfectly with the nutty flavors of the salad.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness contrasts nicely with the tart apples in the salad.
Quinoa Pilaf: This protein-packed grain adds heartiness while keeping things healthy.
Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with grains and vegetables create a vibrant plate alongside this salad.
Herbed Couscous: Light and fluffy couscous seasoned with fresh herbs makes an ideal pairing.
Garlic Breadsticks: Crunchy breadsticks provide a delightful crunch that complements the soft elements of the salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making an Apple Walnut Salad, it’s easy to overlook a few key elements that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

Using Old Ingredients – Freshness matters! Always use fresh apples and walnuts for the best flavor and texture.
Overdressing the Salad – It’s easy to add too much dressing. Start with a small amount and add more only if needed.
Cutting Apples Too Early – Prevent browning by cutting apples just before serving. This keeps them looking fresh and appealing.
Ignoring Cheese Choices – Different cheeses bring different flavors. Experiment with gorgonzola, feta, or goat cheese for variety.
Not Toasting Walnuts – Toasting enhances the flavor of walnuts. Don’t skip this step for a deeper taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Enjoy within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Apple Walnut Salad

Freezing is not recommended, as it may change the texture of the salad ingredients, especially the apples.

Reheating Apple Walnut Salad

Oven – Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 5-10 minutes. This works well if you want to refresh the whole salad.
Microwave – Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until slightly warm. Be cautious not to overheat.
Stovetop – Gently warm in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Apple Walnut Salad.

Can I make Apple Walnut Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare components like the dressing and toasted walnuts ahead. Combine everything just before serving for freshness.

What type of apples are best for this salad?

Honeycrisp apples are highly recommended due to their sweet flavor and crisp texture, but feel free to use your favorites!

How can I customize my Apple Walnut Salad?

You can add ingredients like avocado, sliced pears, or even grilled chicken for added protein and flavor.

Is this Apple Walnut Salad suitable for special diets?

Absolutely! It can be made gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly depending on the cheese choice.

Final Thoughts

The Apple Walnut Salad is a delightful dish that beautifully combines textures and flavors. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings or any meal where you want something refreshing. Feel free to customize it with your favorite nuts or fruits for even more variety. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!