Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. The crisp apples, creamy feta, and crunchy nuts come together with a zesty vinaigrette for a salad that’s both light and satisfying. Ideal as a side dish or a healthy lunch option, this salad brings a burst of freshness to any meal.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Honeycrisp applesmixed greensfeta cheese (crumbled)red onion (thinly sliced)pecans or walnuts (toasted)dried cranberriesolive oilapple cider vinegarDijon mustardhoney saltblack pepper
directions
Wash and thinly slice the Honeycrisp apples, keeping the skin on for color and texture.
In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced apples, crumbled feta, thinly sliced red onion, toasted nuts, and dried cranberries.
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad just before serving and toss gently to combine.
Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesTotal time: 15 minutes
Variations
Substitute blue cheese or goat cheese for feta for a different flavor profile.
Use baby spinach or arugula instead of mixed greens.
Add grilled chicken or salmon to make it a full meal.
Incorporate pomegranate seeds for an extra burst of sweetness and crunch.
Use maple syrup in place of honey for a deeper flavor.
storage/reheating
This salad is best enjoyed fresh. If storing, keep the vinaigrette separate and add just before serving. Refrigerate components for up to 2 days.
FAQs
Can I use a different apple variety?
Yes, Fuji or Gala apples are good alternatives, but Honeycrisp offers the best crunch and sweetness.
Is feta cheese too salty?
Feta can be salty, so you may want to adjust added salt in the vinaigrette accordingly.
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients ahead, but combine and dress the salad right before serving for best results.
What nuts work best?
Toasted pecans or walnuts complement the flavors well, but almonds or pumpkin seeds are also good choices.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all dressing ingredients are gluten-free.
Conclusion
Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad is a crisp, colorful, and flavorful option that’s quick to prepare and always a hit. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a healthy lunch, this salad delivers a satisfying combination of textures and tastes. Give it a try and enjoy a deliciously balanced bite every time.
Print
Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (plus ~5 minutes to toast nuts)
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Salad
- Method: Tossed
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A crisp and colorful salad combining sweet Honeycrisp apples and tangy feta cheese with mixed greens and crunchy nuts, dressed in a honey‑mustard vinaigrette.
Ingredients
- 2 Honeycrisp apples, thinly sliced
- 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or spring mix)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/3 cup toasted walnuts or pecans
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds
- Optional: 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 2 Tbsp extra‑virgin olive oil
- 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar (or balsamic)
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt & freshly ground pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prep produce: Wash and slice apples, greens, and red onion (if using); toast nuts in a dry skillet until fragrant.
- Make dressing: In a jar, whisk or shake together olive oil, vinegar, honey, Dijon, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- Combine salad: In a large bowl, toss mixed greens, apple slices, feta, nuts, cranberries (and onion).
- Dress it: Drizzle dressing over salad and toss gently to coat.
- Serve immediately to preserve crunch.
Notes
- Prepare components separately to keep salad crisp if making ahead.
- Substitute goat cheese or blue cheese for feta if preferred.
- Swap nuts: pecans, almonds, or pumpkin seeds work nicely.
- Add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it a main dish.
- Prevent apples from browning by tossing them in a little lemon juice before assembly.