Apple and Walnut Salad (Printable)

Crisp apples and walnuts with mixed greens in tangy vinaigrette

# What you need:

→ Produce

01 - 2 large crisp apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), cored and thinly sliced
02 - 1 small celery stalk, thinly sliced
03 - 2 ounces mixed salad greens (e.g., arugula, baby spinach)

→ Nuts

04 - 3 ounces walnuts, roughly chopped

→ Cheese (optional)

05 - 2 ounces crumbled blue cheese or feta (omit for dairy-free)

→ Dressing

06 - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
07 - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
08 - 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
09 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
10 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# Directions:

01 - In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
02 - In a large salad bowl, combine sliced apples, celery, salad greens, and walnuts.
03 - Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
04 - Sprinkle crumbled cheese on top, if using. Serve immediately for maximum crispness.

# Expert tips:

01 -
  • It comes together in literally fifteen minutes which is a lifesaver during busy weekdays
  • The combination of sweet crisp apples and tangy vinaigrette feels like something from a fancy cafe
02 -
  • The dressing must go on right before serving or the apples will start weeping and lose their signature crunch
  • Toasting the walnuts in a dry pan for three minutes transforms them from good to absolutely unforgettable
03 -
  • Soak sliced apples in cold water with a splash of lemon juice for 10 minutes if prepping ahead to prevent browning
  • Use a vegetable peeler to create paper thin apple slices that feel almost delicate
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