Save A vibrant, refreshing salad featuring crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, creamy cheese, and a tangy cider vinaigrette—perfect for a light lunch or side dish.
Pin it This American-style salad brings together the earthy crunch of walnuts and the creaminess of goat or feta cheese, tied together by a perfectly emulsified homemade cider vinaigrette.
Ingredients
- Salad:
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (e.g., arugula, spinach, romaine)
- 2 medium apples (such as Gala or Granny Smith), cored and thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)
- Cider Vinaigrette:
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Vinaigrette
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Gradually whisk in the olive oil until the dressing is emulsified. Set aside.
- Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, apple slices, walnuts, cheese, red onion, and dried cranberries (if using).
- Step 3: Dress and Toss
- Drizzle the cider vinaigrette over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to combine and coat the ingredients evenly.
- Step 4: Serve
- Serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To prepare this salad efficiently, you will need a large salad bowl, a whisk, a small bowl or jar, a cutting board, and a knife. Please note that this dish contains tree nuts (walnuts) and dairy (cheese). For nut-free or dairy-free versions, simply omit or substitute as needed.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds if desired. Use blue cheese or shaved Parmesan in place of goat or feta for a different flavor profile. Add grilled chicken or roasted chickpeas for additional protein. For a vegan option, use maple syrup and a plant-based cheese.
Serviervorschläge
This salad provides 260 calories, 19g of total fat, 20g of carbohydrates, and 6g of protein per serving. It is best enjoyed immediately to ensure the greens stay crisp and the apples remain fresh.
Pin it Whether you are serving this as a light lunch or a vibrant side dish, this Mixed Greens and Apple Bowl is a simple yet elegant addition to any meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What apples work best in this bowl?
Gala and Granny Smith apples offer excellent options, providing sweetness and crisp texture respectively. Firm varieties hold their shape well when sliced and won't brown quickly.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Prepare the vinaigrette up to a week in advance and store refrigerated. Wash and dry greens beforehand, but toss everything together just before serving to maintain optimal freshness and texture.
- → What protein additions work well?
Grilled chicken breast, roasted chickpeas, or even hard-boiled eggs complement these flavors beautifully. The tangy vinaigrette pairs especially well with lightly seasoned proteins.
- → How do I prevent apples from browning?
Toss sliced apples with a little lemon juice immediately after cutting. This simple step keeps them looking fresh and appetizing until you're ready to assemble your bowl.
- → Can I use different greens?
Absolutely. Spinach, arugula, kale, or spring mix all work wonderfully. Consider using a blend for varied textures and flavors that will make each bite more interesting.
- → Is this suitable for dietary restrictions?
Yes, this bowl is naturally vegetarian and gluten-free. For vegan needs, use maple syrup instead of honey and choose plant-based cheese alternatives. Simply omit walnuts for nut-free versions.