Description
This Holiday Honeycrisp Salad is a vibrant, crisp, and flavorful dish perfect for festive gatherings. Featuring sweet Honeycrisp apples, dried cranberries, candied pecans, and a tangy vinaigrette, it’s a delightful balance of sweet and savory.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Salad
- 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
- 2 Honeycrisp apples, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup candied pecans (or walnuts)
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste and set aside.
2. Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, layer the mixed greens.
- Top with the sliced Honeycrisp apples, dried cranberries, candied pecans, feta cheese, and red onion slices.
3. Toss and Serve
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.
- Toss gently to combine or serve the dressing on the side for guests to add as they wish.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Prep the ingredients separately and assemble just before serving to keep the greens crisp.
- Protein Option: Add grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or quinoa for a more filling dish.
- Nut-Free Option: Use roasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds instead of candied pecans.
- Storage: Store undressed salad in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Dressing can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 1 week.