Apple Walnut Salad
📝 Description
This refreshing apple salad combines crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, fresh greens, and a light creamy or tangy dressing. It’s quick to prepare, nutrient-rich, and offers a perfect balance of sweetness, crunch, and freshness. You can customize it easily with yogurt, honey, or lemon dressing depending on your taste.
Preparation Time
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2–3 servings
Ingredients
For the Salad
2 medium apples (red or green), diced or thinly sliced
3 cups lettuce or mixed salad greens, chopped
½ cup walnuts, roughly chopped
¼ cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
¼ cup cucumber, chopped (optional for freshness)
2 tbsp red onion, finely sliced (optional)
For the Dressing (Choose One)
Light Honey Lemon Dressing
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp honey
Pinch salt and black pepper
OR
Creamy Yogurt Dressing
3 tbsp plain yogurt
1 tsp honey
½ tsp lemon juice
Pinch salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Wash and dry lettuce or greens.
Core and slice apples (keep peel for extra nutrients).
Chop walnuts and other vegetables.
Step 2: Prevent Apple Browning
Toss apple slices with a little lemon juice.
Step 3: Make Dressing
Whisk dressing ingredients in a small bowl until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble Salad
In a large bowl, combine lettuce, apples, walnuts, and optional ingredients.
Step 5: Toss & Serve
Drizzle dressing over salad.
Toss gently and serve immediately.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving — Approx.)
(Using honey lemon dressing)
Calories: 220 kcal
Protein: 4 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Fiber: 5 g
Fat: 13 g
Sugar: 16 g
Vitamin C: ~15% daily value
Healthy fats: From walnuts
Nutrition varies depending on dressing and add-ins.
Tips for Best Results
Use crisp apples like Fuji, Gala, or Granny Smith.
Toast walnuts for deeper flavor.
Add cheese (feta or cheddar) for extra richness.
Chill for 10 minutes before serving for better taste.
Variations
Add grilled chicken for protein.
Replace walnuts with almonds or pecans.
Add celery for extra crunch.
Use mayonnaise + yogurt mix for a creamy classic version.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I keep apples from turning brown?
Toss them with lemon juice immediately after cutting.
2. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but store dressing separately and mix before serving.
3. Which apples are best?
Sweet apples for mild flavor or green apples for a tangy taste.
4. Is this salad good for weight loss?
Yes — it’s high in fiber, filling, and nutrient-dense.
5. How long can it be stored?
Up to 24 hours refrigerated in an airtight container (best eaten fresh).