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Fall Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

Fall Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

  • Author: Mary
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Fall Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette is a vibrant and fresh autumn-inspired dish combining crisp mixed greens, tart and sweet apples, toasted nuts, and crumbled cheese, all tossed in a bright, tangy homemade apple cider vinaigrette. Perfect as a light lunch, festive side, or healthy meal option, this salad balances textures and flavors beautifully with easy preparation and wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 4 cups fresh mixed greens (spinach, arugula, kale)
  • 2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), cored and thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup toasted nuts (walnuts or pecans)
  • 1/3 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese

Apple Cider Vinaigrette

  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Greens and Apples: Rinse and dry your mixed greens thoroughly to keep the salad fresh and crisp. Core and thinly slice the apples, ensuring each slice is even for a pleasant crunch in every mouthful.
  2. Toast the Nuts: Gently toast walnuts or pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant and lightly browned, about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. This step unlocks their flavor and adds a satisfying crunch.
  3. Make the Apple Cider Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified for a smooth, tangy dressing that brightens the entire salad.
  4. Assemble the Salad: Combine the greens, apple slices, and toasted nuts in a large bowl. Drizzle the apple cider vinaigrette evenly over the top and gently toss to coat. Finish with a sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese.
  5. Serve Immediately: Serve the salad right away to maintain the crispness of the ingredients and the vibrant color contrast that makes it look as good as it tastes.

Notes

  • Use fresh, vibrant greens without wilting for the best salad quality.
  • Slice apples just before serving to prevent browning and toss immediately with the dressing.
  • Adjust sweetness or acidity of the vinaigrette by varying honey and vinegar amounts to your liking.
  • Add vinaigrette gradually to avoid overdressing and sogginess.
  • Try different nuts such as pecans, almonds, or pistachios for varied textures and flavors.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: No cooking / Stovetop (toasting nuts only)
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 salad serving
  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Sugar: 10 g
  • Sodium: 180 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 12 mg

Keywords: fall salad, apple cider vinaigrette, autumn salad, healthy salad, mixed greens, apple salad, gluten free salad

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Find it online: https://marysplate.com/fall-salad-with-apple-cider-vinaigrette/