Autumn Apple Salad

Autumn Apple Salad is a fresh, colorful, and flavorful dish that highlights the best of fall produce. Crisp apples, crunchy nuts, sweet dried fruits, and tangy cheese are layered over tender greens, then tossed in a bright vinaigrette. It’s perfect as a side for holiday meals or as a light lunch on its own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with seasonal flavor—crisp apples, toasted nuts, and sweet cranberries
• Comes together in under 15 minutes
• Perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy
• Easily customizable with different fruits, cheeses, and dressings
• Great for entertaining or meal prep

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the salad

• Mixed greens or baby spinach
• Crisp apples (like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith), thinly sliced
• Crumbled feta, blue cheese, or goat cheese
• Dried cranberries or cherries
• Toasted pecans, walnuts, or pepitas
• Optional: cooked and crumbled bacon or prosciutto

For the dressing

• Olive oil
• Apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar
• Dijon mustard
• Maple syrup or honey
• Salt and black pepper

directions

this recipe

1. Wash and dry the greens, then place in a large salad bowl.
2. Core and thinly slice the apples. If preparing ahead, toss apple slices with lemon juice to prevent browning.
3. Toast the nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes until fragrant.
4. If using, cook bacon until crispy and crumble it once cooled.
5. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
6. Add sliced apples, dried cranberries, toasted nuts, cheese, and bacon (if using) to the salad greens.
7. Drizzle with dressing just before serving and toss gently to combine.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4–6
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 5 minutes (if toasting nuts or cooking bacon)
• Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: Top with grilled chicken, turkey, or chickpeas for a heartier meal
• Fruit swap: Use pears, pomegranate seeds, or fresh figs instead of apples
• Cheese options: Try shaved parmesan, gorgonzola, or dairy-free cheese
• Nut-free: Use sunflower or pumpkin seeds instead of tree nuts
• Vegan: Skip cheese and bacon, use maple syrup and plant-based cheese if desired

storage/reheating

• Store salad ingredients and dressing separately to keep them fresh
• Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 2–3 days
• Apples may brown slightly over time—store slices in lemon water to prevent this
• Best enjoyed fresh; do not freeze

FAQs

What apples are best for this salad?

Crisp and slightly tart apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith work best.

How do I keep apples from browning?

Toss them in lemon juice or a lemon-water solution after slicing.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but keep the dressing and wet ingredients separate until ready to serve.

Is it okay to use store-bought dressing?

Yes, a good quality balsamic or apple cider vinaigrette works well.

Can I use a different type of green?

Absolutely—try arugula, romaine, or kale for variety.

What nuts pair best with apples?

Toasted pecans or walnuts offer the best flavor and texture contrast.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

How can I make this salad dairy-free?

Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

What main dishes does this salad pair with?

Great with roast chicken, pork tenderloin, or hearty soups.

Can I add grains to make it more filling?

Yes—add cooked quinoa, farro, or wild rice for extra substance.

Conclusion

Autumn Apple Salad is a bright, fresh, and flavorful way to enjoy the best of fall. With its balance of sweet, tangy, and savory ingredients, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion—from quick lunches to festive dinners. Customize it to your liking and enjoy the crisp taste of the season in every bite.

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