Why Make This Recipe
Apple Walnut Salad with Cranberry Vinaigrette is a delightful dish that brings together sweet and nutty flavors, making it a perfect choice for any meal. This salad is not only delicious but also filled with nutrients. The combination of fresh apples, crunchy walnuts, and a tangy vinaigrette makes it a tasty and healthy option for lunch or dinner. It’s also quick and easy to prepare, so you can enjoy a fresh salad without much hassle.
How to Make Apple Walnut Salad with Cranberry Vinaigrette
Ingredients :
0.5 cup chopped walnuts
0.25 cup cranberries
0.25 cup balsamic vinegar
1 cup red onion, chopped
1 tablespoon white sugar
1 tablespoon Dijon-style prepared mustard
1 cup vegetable oil
salt and pepper to taste
10 cups mixed salad greens, rinsed and dried
2 Red Delicious apples, cored and thinly sliced
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Spread the walnuts out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until lightly toasted.
- In a food processor, combine the cranberries, vinegar, onion, sugar, and mustard. Puree until smooth; gradually add oil, and season with salt and pepper.
- In a salad bowl, toss together the greens, apples, and enough of the cranberry mixture to coat. Sprinkle with walnuts, and serve.
How to Serve Apple Walnut Salad with Cranberry Vinaigrette
Serve this salad fresh as a side dish or a light meal. It pairs well with grilled chicken or fish. You can also add more toppings like feta cheese or extra nuts for added flavor.
How to Store Apple Walnut Salad with Cranberry Vinaigrette
To store this salad, keep the components separate. Place the mixed greens and sliced apples in one container, and the cranberry vinaigrette in another. Store the walnuts in a small bag. This way, the salad will stay fresh longer. Assemble the salad just before serving.
Tips to Make Apple Walnut Salad with Cranberry Vinaigrette
- Make sure to toast the walnuts for extra flavor.
- Use fresh, crisp apples for the best texture.
- Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by adding more or less sugar according to your taste.
Variation
You can easily customize this salad by adding other fruits like pears or berries, or by using different nuts such as pecans or almonds.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. Just keep the dressing and salad components separate until you are ready to serve.
2. What can I use instead of balsamic vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar.
3. Is there a way to make this salad vegan?
Yes, this recipe is already vegan since it doesn’t contain any meat or dairy. Just make sure the mustard you use is also vegan.