Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad Recipe

Introduction

This Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad is a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Crisp apples combined with creamy feta and crunchy nuts make it a refreshing dish ideal for any season.

Ingredients

• 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or spring mix)
• 2 Honeycrisp apples, thinly sliced
• ½ cup (75g) crumbled feta cheese
• ⅓ cup (40g) toasted walnuts or pecans
• ¼ cup (40g) dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds
• ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to make the honey mustard vinaigrette. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
2. Step 2: In a large salad bowl, layer the mixed greens, thinly sliced Honeycrisp apples, crumbled feta cheese, toasted nuts, dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds, and red onion if using.
3. Step 3: Just before serving, drizzle the honey mustard vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
4. Step 4: Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish or a light main course.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch, swap toasted walnuts for pecans or add pumpkin seeds.
• Use pomegranate seeds instead of dried cranberries for a juicy burst.
• Red onion adds a zing, but you can omit it if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Try goat cheese instead of feta for a creamier texture and milder taste.

Storage

Store leftover salad components separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. Keep the vinaigrette refrigerated separately and toss the salad just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the salad in advance?

It’s best to keep the ingredients and dressing separate and combine them right before serving to keep the salad crisp.

Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, firm and slightly sweet apples like Fuji or Gala work well, but Honeycrisp adds a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad Recipe

Print Recipe

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4.4 from 100 reviews

A vibrant and refreshing Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad featuring mixed greens, crisp apple slices, creamy feta cheese, toasted nuts, and a sweet-tangy honey mustard vinaigrette. Perfect as a light lunch or a colorful side dish.

• Author: Joe
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Salad Ingredients

• 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or spring mix)
• 2 Honeycrisp apples, thinly sliced
• ½ cup (75g) crumbled feta cheese
• ⅓ cup (40g) toasted walnuts or pecans
• ¼ cup (40g) dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds
• ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)

Honey Mustard Vinaigrette

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Make the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning to suit your preference.
2. Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, layer the mixed greens, thinly sliced Honeycrisp apples, crumbled feta cheese, toasted nuts, dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds, and red onion slices if using. Ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Dress and Toss: Just before serving, drizzle the prepared honey mustard vinaigrette over the salad. Toss gently but thoroughly to combine all the flavors without bruising the delicate greens.
4. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the salad immediately as a vibrant, refreshing side dish or a light main course that balances sweet, savory, and tangy flavors beautifully.

Notes

• Use Honeycrisp apples for their sweet-tart flavor and crisp texture; other crisp apples may also be used.
• To toast nuts, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until fragrant.
• For a nut-free option, omit the nuts or substitute with roasted chickpeas.
• The salad is best served immediately after dressing to avoid sogginess.
• Red onion is optional but adds a nice sharpness and crunch.

Keywords: Honeycrisp apple salad, feta salad, honey mustard vinaigrette, mixed greens salad, healthy salad, easy salad recipe