Crisp Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Dried Cranberries

A sweet and tangy salad featuring crisp apple slices, crunchy candied walnuts, and tart dried cranberries, all tossed in a light, flavorful dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or as an elegant side at dinner parties!

---

Yield

Makes 4 servings.

---

Ingredients

For the Candied Walnuts

• 1 cup walnut halves
• 2 tablespoons butter (or coconut oil)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey/maple syrup)
• Pinch of salt

For the Salad

• 6 cups mixed greens (e.g., spinach, arugula, or lettuce spring mix)
• 1 large apple, thinly sliced (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

For the Dressing

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 1/2  tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
• 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

---

Instructions

Step 1: Candy the Walnuts

1. In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter (or coconut oil).
2. Stir in the brown sugar (or other sweetener) and a pinch of salt until it begins to bubble.
3. Add the walnuts and stir to coat them evenly for 2–3 minutes.
4. Transfer the candied walnuts to a parchment-lined plate or tray. Let them cool completely—they’ll harden as they cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a small bowl (or a jar with a tight-fitting lid), whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
2. Taste and adjust, adding more honey for sweetness or more vinegar for tang if desired.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. Place the mixed greens in a large serving bowl.
2. Top with sliced apples and dried cranberries.
3. Scatter the cooled candied walnuts over the top.
4. (Optional) Sprinkle crumbled feta for extra creaminess.

Step 4: Serve

1. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving or serve it on the side.
2. Toss gently to coat all ingredients, and enjoy immediately.

---

How the Salad Will Look

Vibrant greens topped with glossy, caramelized walnuts, ruby-red cranberries, and crisp apple slices. The dressing adds a subtle sheen that ties all the flavors together, making it as appealing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds.

---

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: ~220, Fat: ~14g, Carbohydrates: ~20g, Protein: ~4g

---

Kitchen Tips

1. Apple Choice: Honeycrisp or Fuji apples offer a sweet-tart crunch, while Granny Smith apples add extra tang.

2. Protein Boosta; Add sliced grilled chicken or turkey for a heartier meal.

3. Walnut Storage: Keep leftover candied walnuts in an airtight container for up to a week—perfect for topping oatmeal or yogurt.

4. Dressing Storage: Refrigerate leftover dressing in a sealed container for up to 5 days; stir or shake well before using again.

5. Add Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle in some fresh basil or mint for a refreshing twist.

Enjoy this colorful, crunchy salad as a light meal or a crowd-pleasing side!