Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad

Fresh, Bright & Easy Fall Salad

introduction

This Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad is a light, crunchy bowl that feels like autumn in every bite — sweet Honeycrisp slices, tangy feta, and crunchy candied walnuts tossed with a simple honey-Dijon vinaigrette. It’s the perfect go-to for weeknight meals or a pretty side for guests. If you like boosting apple flavor in salads and desserts, try learning the caramelized apples technique for a warm variation that’s irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad:

• Bright, balanced flavors: sweet apples, tangy feta, and a honey-Dijon dressing.
• Ready in about 10–15 minutes — great for busy evenings.
• No cooking required, so it’s fresh, crisp, and simple to meal-prep.
• Family-friendly and easy to scale for gatherings.
• Pairs beautifully with heartier mains for a complete meal.

Ingredients Needed :

• Greens
  • 4 cups mixed greens
• Fruit & Veg
  • 2 large Honeycrisp apples, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
• Cheese & Nuts & Fruit
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/3 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/3 cup candied walnuts
• Dressing
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions :

1. Wash and dry mixed greens if not pre-washed. Thinly slice the Honeycrisp apples and red onion.
2. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Adjust to taste.
3. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced Honeycrisp apples, crumbled feta, dried cranberries, red onion, and candied walnuts. For a seasonal menu, this bright salad is a lovely contrast to hearty mains like corned beef and cabbage.
4. Add the dressing just before serving and toss gently to coat evenly.
5. Taste and add extra salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

Serving Suggestions Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad

• Serve as a starter alongside roasted chicken or grilled fish. This salad also makes a crisp side for richer dinners like salmon and mashed potatoes.
• For a light lunch, add sliced grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
• Turn it into a composed platter: place greens down, arrange apple slices and feta on top, and drizzle dressing right before serving.
• Finish the meal with a simple sweet bite — try pairing with small treats such as chocolate and raisin treats for a classic sweet finish.

Tips for Success Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad

• Use Honeycrisp apples for the best sweet-tart crunch; other firm apples will work but may change the balance.
• Toss apples in a little lemon juice if you need to prep them ahead to prevent browning.
• Add the dressing just before serving to keep greens crisp and avoid sogginess.
• For extra crunch, toast the candied walnuts briefly in a dry skillet to revive them.
• Adjust honey in the dressing to control sweetness — start small and add more if needed.

variation (if any)

• Warm variation: use pan-seared or caramelized apple slices (see caramelized apples idea) and serve over wilted spinach for a cozy twist.
• Protein-rich: top with grilled chicken, sliced turkey, or roasted salmon for a heartier entrée salad.
• Vegan swap: replace feta with tofu feta or a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds and swap honey for maple syrup.

FAQs

Q: How long will this salad stay fresh?
A: Assembled with dressing, it’s best eaten within a few hours. If you need leftovers, store components separately: apples and greens chilled, dressing in a jar, and add nuts just before serving.

Q: Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
A: Yes — the honey-Dijon dressing stores well in the fridge for up to one week. Shake or whisk before using.

Q: What can I substitute for candied walnuts?
A: Pecans or sliced almonds work nicely; for less sweetness, use toasted plain walnuts with a drizzle of honey.

Q: How can I keep the apples from browning?
A: Toss slices in a tablespoon of lemon juice or lemon-water quickly before adding to the salad to slow oxidation.

Q: Is this salad gluten-free?
A: Yes — with the listed ingredients it’s naturally gluten-free. Always check labels for added ingredients like candied nuts or dressings if buying pre-made.