Celebrate the cozy flavors of fall with this Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad — a fresh, colorful dish that captures the best of the season. Crisp Honeycrisp apples meet creamy feta cheese, toasted pecans, and a tangy apple cider vinaigrette for a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy in every bite. It’s a refreshing side dish or light main course you’ll want to make on repeat this autumn.
🥗 Why You’ll Love This Salad
- Bursting with fall flavor: Crisp apples, toasted nuts, and tangy vinaigrette make every bite seasonal perfection.
- Quick and easy: Ready in just 15 minutes with simple, wholesome ingredients.
- Versatile: Serve as a side with your favorite protein or enjoy as a satisfying vegetarian main.
- Make-ahead friendly: Prep ingredients in advance for easy assembly before serving.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 6 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
- 1 large Honeycrisp apple, thinly sliced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ⅓ cup pecans, toasted (or walnuts)
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup pomegranate seeds (optional)
- ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
For the Dressing:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
🥄 How to Make Autumn Harvest Salad
- Prepare the Base:
In a large salad bowl, combine mixed greens, thinly sliced apple, red onion, and dried cranberries. - Add Cheese & Nuts:
Sprinkle feta, toasted pecans, and pumpkin seeds (if using) over the greens. - Whisk the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth. - Toss & Serve:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Top with pomegranate seeds and fresh thyme for an extra pop of flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy the crisp, refreshing flavors of fall!
🧀 Recipe Tips & Variations
- Cheese Swap: Try goat cheese or blue cheese for a bolder taste.
- Nut Options: Substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or candied nuts.
- Fruit Boost: Add slices of pear, orange, or even figs for extra fall sweetness.
- Greens: Kale, romaine, or butter lettuce make great alternatives.
- Make it vegan: Omit the cheese or use a dairy-free feta alternative, and replace honey with maple syrup or agave.
🧊 Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Keep dressing separate: For the best texture, store the dressing apart and toss just before serving.
- Serve cold: This salad is best enjoyed fresh and chilled — no reheating needed!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use another type of apple?
Absolutely! Fuji, Gala, or Pink Lady apples are great crisp alternatives.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prep all the components in advance, but wait to add the dressing until right before serving.
What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?
White wine or red wine vinegar works just as well.
Can I add protein?
Yes — grilled chicken, turkey, or tofu turn this salad into a hearty meal.
What can I use instead of honey?
Maple syrup or agave nectar make excellent substitutes.
🍂 Final Thoughts
This Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad is everything you love about fall — crisp, fresh, and beautifully balanced. The sweetness of apples, tangy feta, and crunch of toasted pecans make it the ultimate seasonal salad. Serve it as a light lunch, a dinner side, or a stunning addition to your holiday table — it’s sure to impress every time.
Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Diet: Vegetarian