Apple Walnut Salad with Maple Dijon Vinaigrette
This refreshing salad features crunchy apples, toasted walnuts, tangy goat cheese (or feta), and mixed greens, all tossed with a sweet-and-savory maple Dijon vinaigrette. It’s vegetarian, quick to prepare, and layered with textures and flavors.
Time Breakdown:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time (walnuts): 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2–3 as a main, 4 as a side
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
5–6 cups mixed salad greens (e.g., arugula, spinach, romaine)
1 large crisp apple (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Pink Lady), thinly sliced
1/2 cup toasted walnuts
1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta
1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
1/4 cup dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds (optional)
For the Maple Dijon Vinaigrette:
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar
1 tbsp maple syrup
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Salt & black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Toast the Walnuts
1. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast walnuts for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant and lightly golden.
2. Remove from heat and let cool.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
1. In a small jar or bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard.
2. Add salt and pepper to taste. Shake or stir well to emulsify.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, apple slices, walnuts, red onion (if using), and dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds.
2. Drizzle with the maple Dijon vinaigrette.
3. Gently toss to coat. Top with crumbled goat cheese just before serving.
Notes & Tips:
Best Apples: Use sweet-tart varieties like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Pink Lady. Avoid mealy apples like Red Delicious.
Want it extra hearty? Add grilled chicken or roasted sweet potatoes.
Cheese Swap: Blue cheese crumbles add a bold contrast if you prefer a sharper bite.
Make-Ahead: Keep dressing separate and slice apples just before serving to avoid browning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use pecans instead of walnuts?
A: Absolutely! Toasted pecans or almonds also work beautifully in this salad.
Q: Can I make it vegan?
A: Yes! Skip the cheese or use vegan cheese, and ensure your Dijon is vegan (some contain honey or eggs).
Q: Is this salad gluten-free?
A: Yes — just make sure your Dijon mustard is gluten-free.
Nutritional Information
Calories ~260 kcal
Protein 5 g
Carbohydrates 18 g
Fat 20 g
Fiber 4 g
Sugar 10 g
Sodium ~200 mg