If you’re searching for a quick and enticing way to brighten up your meal table, look no further than this Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad with Maple Dressing. Crisp, creamy, and perfectly sweet, this salad encapsulates the essence of the season with vibrant colors and delightful textures. It takes just 15 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family.
The combination of fresh baby spinach, juicy apples, and crunchy walnuts creates a tapestry of flavors that are further enhanced by the sweetness of dried cranberries and the richness of goat cheese. Topped off with a homemade maple dressing, this salad is not only delicious but also nutritious. It’s packed with vitamins and minerals, and the dressing brings everything together in a beautiful harmony. Whether served as a side dish or a light main course, this Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad
- Quick to Prepare: This salad can be ready in just 15 minutes!
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins from spinach and apples, plus healthy fats from walnuts.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday meal, picnic, or weeknight dinner, this salad fits in beautifully.
- Flavorful Dressing: The maple dressing adds a delicious twist that pairs wonderfully with the salad’s ingredients.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into this delightful salad, it’s essential to prepare your workspace and gather all the necessary tools. Start by clearing your kitchen counter and setting up a cutting board, a sharp knife (to slice the apples), and a mixing bowl for the salad. You’ll also need a whisk or a small bowl to mix the salad dressing.
Having your ingredients like baby spinach, apples, cranberries, walnuts, and cheese on hand will streamline the process. A salad spinner can be handy for washing and drying the baby spinach, making it crisp and fresh for assembly. Once everything is prepped and within reach, you’ll be ready to whip up this refreshing salad without delay!
Ingredients
- 2 medium red apples, thinly sliced
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- 6 cups baby spinach
- ½ cup candied or toasted walnuts
- ⅓ cup crumbled goat cheese or feta
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
Start by whisking together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and black pepper in a small bowl. This homemade dressing is the star of the show, bringing all the flavors of the salad together seamlessly. It’s essential to whisk until smooth, ensuring that all the ingredients are evenly combined. This not only enhances the flavor but also creates a delightful aroma that will whet your appetite.
Step 2: Slice the Apples
Next, core and thinly slice the apples. To prevent browning, toss the apple slices with the lemon juice right after cutting. The acidity of the lemon juice not only helps maintain the apples’ fresh appearance but also adds a tangy twist that balances the sweetness of the dried cranberries and maple dressing.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Now it’s time for the fun part—assembly! In a large bowl, layer the baby spinach as the base. Top it with the sliced apples, followed by the dried cranberries, walnuts, and crumbled goat cheese. You can either toss the salad gently to combine all the ingredients or keep the layers intact for visual appeal. Either way, the combination of colors will be as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Step 4: Dress & Serve
Drizzle your freshly made maple dressing over the salad just before serving. This ensures that the salad retains its crispness and doesn’t get soggy. Toss gently to coat the ingredients, or leave them layered for a more stunning presentation. Enjoy this salad with your loved ones, knowing it’s both delicious and healthy!
Variations
- Protein: Add grilled chicken or roasted chickpeas for more protein and substance.
- Vegetables: Toss in other fresh veggies like cucumbers or diced bell peppers for crunch and color.
- Spices: Experiment with warm spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg in the dressing for added depth.
Cooking Notes
- To prevent the apples from browning, add the lemon juice immediately after slicing.
- Use fresh spinach for the best flavor; avoid wilted or damaged leaves.
- Feel free to substitute the goat cheese for feta or omit it for a dairy-free version.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this salad with a light protein dish like grilled salmon or chicken for a complete meal.
- Serve it as a side at your holiday table to complement rich entrees.
Tips
- Chill the salad bowl and the dressing beforehand for an even fresher taste.
- Make the dressing ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 240 per serving
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 200mg
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the ingredients and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble right before serving for the best texture.
What can I substitute for the walnuts?
Almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds can be great alternatives if you have nut allergies or simply prefer a different flavor.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the dressing?
You can reduce the maple syrup if you prefer a less sweet dressing, or add a pinch of honey for a different flavor profile.
Is this salad vegetarian-friendly?
Absolutely! This salad is vegetarian-friendly and can easily be made vegan by omitting the cheese.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad with Maple Dressing is a fantastic dish that combines ease with exceptional flavor. Perfect for any occasion, it offers a delightful medley of fresh ingredients that promote healthy eating without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re enjoying it as a refreshing side dish or a wholesome meal, this salad is bound to become a favorite in your household. Don’t hesitate to try different variations and share your sublime experiences with us in the comments below. Happy cooking!
Print
Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad with Maple Dressing
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Delight in the vibrant flavors of this Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad with Maple Dressing, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 medium red apples, thinly sliced
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- 6 cups baby spinach
- ½ cup candied or toasted walnuts
- ⅓ cup crumbled goat cheese or feta
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Start by whisking together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and black pepper in a small bowl. This homemade dressing is the star of the show, bringing all the flavors of the salad together seamlessly.
- Next, core and thinly slice the apples. To prevent browning, toss the apple slices with the lemon juice right after cutting.
- In a large bowl, layer the baby spinach as the base. Top it with the sliced apples, followed by the dried cranberries, walnuts, and crumbled goat cheese.
- Drizzle your freshly made maple dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to coat the ingredients.
Notes
Prep the ingredients in advance to save time when assembling the salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
Nutrition
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Protein: 6 g