Print

The Ultimate Apple Walnut Salad

Print Recipe

A delightful blend of fresh apples, savory bacon, and creamy cheese combined with mixed greens and candied walnuts, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 red or green apples, sliced
  • Squeeze of lemon juice
  • 3–4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 6 cups mixed salad greens and arugula
  • ½ red onion, finely sliced
  • 1/3 cup dried cranberries
  • 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds
  • ½ cup feta or goat cheese, crumbled (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted walnut halves or pieces
  • Pinch of salt
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple butter (or apple sauce, optional)
  • 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried garlic or 1 minced fresh garlic clove
  • ¼ teaspoon dried thyme or sage

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Candied Walnuts: Pour the butter into a skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add in your sugar and stir. Slowly toss in the walnuts and a pinch of salt. Allow the nuts to cook for about 4-5 minutes until they are golden. Spread them out on parchment paper and let them cool.
  2. Build the Salad Base: In a large salad bowl, toss together your mixed greens and arugula. Make sure the greens are washed and dried beforehand.
  3. Slice your apples into thin wedges and add lemon juice to prevent browning.
  4. Crumble the cooked bacon into the salad along with the dried cranberries and pumpkin seeds. Stir gently.
  5. Prepare the Dressing: Combine the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, apple butter, maple syrup, salt, black pepper, garlic, and thyme in a small jar or bowl. Shake or whisk until smooth.
  6. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until every leaf is coated. Top with crumbled cheese and the candied walnuts.

Notes

For a vegetarian option, swap bacon for turkey bacon or crispy chickpeas. This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be prepared in advance with components stored separately.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple salad, walnut salad, salad recipe, healthy salad, autumn salad

Find it online: https://pureproteinbites.com/minute-apple-walnut-salad-for-beginners/