Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad is a fresh and crunchy mix that combines crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, and tart cranberries for a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s a colorful salad that’s both sweet and a little tangy, making it a wonderful side dish or a light meal on its own.
I love making this salad when I want something quick and satisfying that feels a little special. The walnuts add a nice crunch, and the cranberries bring a pop of tartness that keeps things interesting. Sometimes I toss a simple honey-mustard dressing on top, which just ties everything together so nicely.
This salad is an easy way to brighten up any table, especially during the fall when apples and cranberries are at their best. I often serve it alongside grilled chicken or even on its own for a refreshing lunch. It’s one of those dishes that everyone asks for again because it’s just so easy to enjoy and share.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Choose crisp varieties like Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness. These keep the salad crunchy. If apples aren’t available, pears make a nice alternative.
Walnuts: I love walnuts for their rich crunch, but pecans or almonds work well too. Toasting them lightly enhances their flavor and adds extra depth.
Dried Cranberries: They bring a tart sweetness that brightens the salad. You can swap in dried cherries or raisins if you prefer a different twist.
Cheese: Blue cheese adds creaminess and tang, but it’s optional. Feta or goat cheese are great milder choices if you want something less strong.
Dressing: The olive oil and apple cider vinegar mix is light and fresh. Honey or maple syrup gives just a touch of sweetness that balances the tart ingredients. Dijon mustard adds a nice mild kick.
How Do I Keep Apples From Browning in Salads?
Freshly sliced apples can turn brown quickly. To keep them looking bright and fresh:
- Toss the slices in a little lemon juice or orange juice right after cutting.
- Prepare the salad close to serving time to keep apples crisp.
- Use tart apple varieties—they tend to brown slower.
- If you want to prep ahead, store apple slices in cold water with a splash of lemon juice until ready to use.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large salad bowl – I like a big bowl to mix everything easily and keep the ingredients fresh.
- Small whisk or jar with lid – perfect for mixing the dressing quickly and smoothly.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – helps slice apples thinly and chop nuts with ease.
- Measuring spoons – for the dressing ingredients, ensuring the right balance of sweet and tangy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds for different crunch and flavor.
- Add sliced grilled chicken or turkey for extra protein in a main dish version.
- Fold in some crumbled feta or goat cheese instead of blue cheese for a milder taste.
- Mix in dried cherries or apricots for a sweeter, fruitier twist.
Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Salad:
- 6 cups mixed lettuce greens (such as butter lettuce or romaine)
- 1 large crisp apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), thinly sliced
- ½ cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup crumbled blue cheese or feta (optional)
Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick, fresh dish that you can toss together in just a few minutes, perfect for a light lunch or a quick side.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Start by placing your washed and dried lettuce greens in a large salad bowl. This leafy base adds freshness and crunch.
2. Add Fruits and Nuts:
Scatter the thin apple slices, chopped walnuts, and dried cranberries evenly over the greens. If you’re using cheese, sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese or feta on top now.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake until everything is well blended and creamy.
4. Dress and Toss:
Pour the dressing over the salad just before serving and gently toss everything to coat well. This keeps the salad fresh and crunchy.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately to enjoy the crispness of the apples and greens paired with the sweet, tangy dressing. It’s a delightful combination that’s simple and satisfying!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Dried?
Fresh or frozen cranberries are much more tart and watery, so I recommend sticking with dried cranberries for the best texture and flavor in this salad.
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad (without dressing) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Add the dressing just before serving to keep the greens crisp.
Can I Make the Dressing Ahead of Time?
Yes! The dressing can be whisked and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a quick shake or stir before using.
What Can I Substitute for Blue Cheese?
If you prefer milder cheese, feta or goat cheese work wonderfully in this salad and add a nice creamy element.