Let me tell you about my absolute favorite winter salad: the Winter Apple Walnut Salad. There’s something so refreshing about biting into crisp apples and crunchy walnuts, especially when the chilly weather rolls in. This salad is my go-to for family gatherings during the colder months. I can still remember the laughter and chatter around the table as we all dug into this vibrant dish. The combination of sweet apples, toasted walnuts, and tangy feta brings a delightful balance that just brightens up the winter blues. Plus, it’s super quick to whip up, which is essential when you have a house full of guests! Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making it a winter staple too!

Ingredients List

2 cups mixed salad greens
1 medium apple, diced (I love using Granny Smith for a tart kick!)
1/2 cup walnuts, toasted (toast them in a dry skillet for a few minutes for extra flavor)
1/4 cup dried cranberries (they add a nice sweetness)
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (the creaminess balances everything out beautifully)
2 tablespoons olive oil (use a good quality one for the best taste)
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (it adds a lovely tang)
Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy with seasoning!)

How to Prepare Winter Apple Walnut Salad

Making this Winter Apple Walnut Salad is as easy as pie—well, maybe easier! Just follow these simple steps to create a fresh and crunchy masterpiece that will brighten your winter table.

Combine the Salad Ingredients

First things first, grab a large bowl and toss in your 2 cups of mixed salad greens. Then, add in the diced apple, toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, and crumbled feta cheese. I always like to give it a little mix right now to ensure everything is evenly distributed. It’s like a colorful party in there!

Prepare the Dressing

Now, let’s whip up that dressing! In a smaller bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. I love to use a fork for this—it makes it super easy to combine. Just whisk until it’s all nicely blended. You’ll smell that lovely tangy aroma as you go!

Toss and Serve

Here comes the fun part! Drizzle your dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine. Make sure everything is well-coated but be gentle so you don’t squish that beautiful apple! Serve immediately for the freshest taste, and if you want to impress your guests, add a sprinkle of extra cranberries or walnuts on top just before serving. Wow, it’s so good!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s incredibly fresh and crunchy, making it a perfect antidote to winter’s heavier meals.
Preparation takes just 10 minutes, so you can whip it up even on the busiest days!
The vibrant colors and textures make it a showstopper at any winter gathering.
Each bite is a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that everyone will enjoy.
It’s versatile! Feel free to customize it with your favorite nuts or cheese.
It’s a healthy option packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Perfect for meal prep—enjoy it as a refreshing lunch throughout the week!

Tips for Success

Want to elevate your Winter Apple Walnut Salad to the next level? Here are some of my favorite pro tips that’ll make this salad even more delightful!

Apple Varieties: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of apples! While Granny Smith is my go-to for that tartness, Honeycrisp or Fuji apples add a wonderful sweetness. You can even mix and match for a fun flavor combination!
Toasting Walnuts: Toasting your walnuts is key to unlocking their rich flavor! Just toss them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently until they’re golden and fragrant. Trust me, the extra effort is worth it!
Add Protein: If you’re looking to make this salad more filling, grilled chicken or even sliced turkey works beautifully! Just slice it up and toss it in with the greens for a satisfying meal.
Fresh Herbs: For an extra pop of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like mint or parsley. They bring a refreshing twist that complements the apples and walnuts perfectly!
Make-Ahead Option: You can prep the salad ingredients ahead of time and store them separately. Just keep the dressing in a jar in the fridge! Toss everything together right before serving to keep those greens crisp.
Season to Taste: Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning! A little extra salt or a dash more vinegar can make all the difference in bringing those flavors to life.

With these tips, you’ll be serving up a Winter Apple Walnut Salad that not only looks stunning but tastes absolutely divine. Happy salad-making!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of my Winter Apple Walnut Salad. Keep in mind, these values are based on typical ingredient amounts and can vary slightly based on specific brands or measurements:

Calories: 250
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 150mg
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 10g
Protein: 5g

This salad not only tastes amazing but also packs a nutritious punch, making it a guilt-free addition to your winter meals. Enjoy every crunchy, flavorful bite!

FAQ Section

Got questions about my Winter Apple Walnut Salad? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I get, and I hope these answers help you whip up this delicious dish with ease.

Can I substitute the walnuts with another nut?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of walnuts or just want to mix things up, feel free to swap them out for pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts. Each nut brings its unique flavor, so choose what you love!

What type of apple works best?

While I adore Granny Smith for its tartness, you really can use any variety of apple that you enjoy! Honeycrisp and Fuji bring sweetness, making them perfect for those who prefer a milder flavor. Go ahead and experiment!

How should I store leftovers?

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare at my house!), store the salad ingredients and dressing separately in airtight containers. This way, your greens stay crisp and fresh! The salad is best enjoyed within a day or two.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients in advance, just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This is a great way to save time if you’re hosting a gathering!

What can I add for extra protein?

Great question! Grilled chicken, sliced turkey, or even chickpeas are excellent additions for making this salad more filling. Just toss them in right before serving for a hearty meal!

Is this salad suitable for a vegetarian diet?

Yes, indeed! This Winter Apple Walnut Salad is vegetarian-friendly as it’s packed with wholesome ingredients like salad greens, fruits, and nuts. Just skip the added protein if you want to keep it meat-free!

Can I add other fruits to this salad?

You bet! Feel free to add sliced pears, pomegranate seeds, or even mandarin oranges for a fruity twist. It’s all about what flavors you enjoy most. Get creative!

I hope these FAQs clear up any uncertainties and encourage you to dive into making this delightful Winter Apple Walnut Salad. Happy cooking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your Winter Apple Walnut Salad properly is key to keeping it fresh and delicious! If you happen to have leftovers (which, let’s be honest, is a rarity), here’s how to do it right:

First, separate the salad ingredients and the dressing. Place the salad in an airtight container and store it in the fridge. Make sure to keep the nuts, cranberries, and feta mixed in with the greens for the best flavor and texture. The salad will stay fresh for about 1-2 days. Just remember, the longer it sits, the more the greens will wilt!

For the dressing, transfer it to a small jar or container with a tight lid. It can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good shake or whisk before using it again, as it may separate a bit.

As for reheating, there’s really no need here! This salad is best enjoyed cold and fresh. So, when you’re ready to dig in, simply toss your stored salad with the dressing again, and you’re good to go! Enjoy every crunchy, vibrant bite of your Winter Apple Walnut Salad even on day two!

Winter Apple Walnut Salad: 7 Ways to Brighten Your Day

Author: [email protected]
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Salad
Method: Tossing
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A fresh and crunchy salad perfect for winter.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups mixed salad greens
1 medium apple, diced
1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine salad greens, diced apple, walnuts, cranberries, and feta cheese.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve immediately.

Notes

Use any variety of apple you prefer.
Toast walnuts in a dry skillet for extra flavor.
Add grilled chicken for extra protein.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 250
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: Winter Apple Walnut Salad

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