Caramelized Mushroom Salad with Feta and Walnuts
If you think salads need lettuce to feel complete, this warm Caramelized Mushroom Salad might change your mind. Deeply golden mushrooms, sautéed in olive oil and butter until rich and savory, form the base. They’re topped with salty feta, crunchy toasted walnuts, and a drizzle of hot honey that ties everything together with a sweet and spicy finish.
This dish works beautifully as a warm appetizer, a hearty side, or even a light vegetarian main when paired with crusty bread. The contrast of textures and flavors makes it feel restaurant-worthy, yet it’s surprisingly simple to prepare.
Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: About 30–35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Mushrooms
1 lb (450 g) cremini or button mushrooms, cleaned and halved
3 tablespoons (45 ml) olive oil
3 tablespoons (45 g) butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme leaves), optional
For the Topping and Drizzle
1/2 cup (75 g) crumbled feta cheese
1/3 cup (40 g) walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
3 tablespoons (45 ml) hot honey
Optional: chili flakes
Optional: fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions
Clean mushrooms by wiping gently with a damp cloth and halve them evenly.
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add mushrooms in a single layer and cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes to develop browning.
Stir and continue cooking until mushrooms release moisture and begin to caramelize.
Add minced garlic and thyme, cooking for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Continue cooking until mushrooms are deeply golden and slightly crisp at edges.
Transfer mushrooms to a serving platter while still warm.
Sprinkle feta and toasted walnuts evenly over the top.
Drizzle with hot honey, add chili flakes if desired, garnish with herbs, and serve immediately.
Tips
Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming.
Use medium-high heat for proper browning.
Don’t stir too often at the beginning.
Salt near the end to avoid excess moisture.
Toast walnuts separately for better flavor.
Use a mix of mushroom varieties for depth.
Let butter brown slightly for nuttier taste.
Serve warm for best texture contrast.
Add honey just before serving to keep flavors vibrant.
Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for even heat distribution.
Variations
Add baby spinach and let it wilt under the warm mushrooms.
Substitute goat cheese for feta.
Use maple syrup with chili instead of hot honey.
Add balsamic glaze for tangy sweetness.
Include caramelized onions for extra richness.
Add arugula for a peppery base.
Mix in roasted cherry tomatoes.
Add crispy bacon for a savory twist.
Use pecans instead of walnuts.
Finish with lemon zest for brightness.
Q&A
Can I make this ahead of time?
Mushrooms are best fresh, but you can prep toppings in advance.
Can I use only olive oil?
Yes, but butter adds richness and better browning.
What mushrooms work best?
Cremini offer deeper flavor, but button mushrooms work well.
How do I toast walnuts?
Toast in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, omit butter and feta or use plant-based alternatives.
Is hot honey necessary?
No, regular honey with chili flakes works.
Can I serve it cold?
It’s best warm but can be served at room temperature.
How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate up to 2 days and reheat gently.
Can I add protein?
Grilled chicken or chickpeas pair well.
Is this low-carb?
Yes, mushrooms are naturally low in carbohydrates.
Nutrition
(Approximate per serving)
Calories: 320–360
Protein: 8–10 g
Carbohydrates: 12–15 g
Fiber: 2–3 g
Fat: 26–30 g
Sugar: 7–9 g (from honey)
Values may vary based on portion size and specific brands.
Conclusion
Caramelized Mushroom Salad with Feta and Walnuts is a bold, satisfying dish that proves simple ingredients can create complex flavor. The savory depth of golden mushrooms, creamy feta, crunchy walnuts, and sweet-spicy honey delivers balance in every bite. Whether served as a starter, side, or centerpiece for a vegetarian meal, it’s a recipe that feels special without being complicated. Warm, flavorful, and textured, it’s one you’ll want to make again and again.