Looking for a vibrant, refreshing salad that hits the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy? This Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad is exactly what you need. With crisp apples, creamy feta, crunchy nuts, and a simple honey mustard vinaigrette, this colorful dish is perfect as a light lunch or a flavorful side for any meal.
🥗 Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 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)
For the 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
- Make the Vinaigrette:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. - Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, layer the mixed greens, apple slices, crumbled feta, toasted nuts, dried cranberries (or pomegranate seeds), and red onion if using. - Dress and Toss:
Just before serving, drizzle the honey mustard vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine. - Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately as a vibrant side dish or a light, refreshing main course.
🍎 Why Honeycrisp Apples?
Honeycrisp apples are known for their sweet-tart balance and firm, juicy texture. They hold up beautifully in salads and provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts perfectly with creamy feta and soft greens.
✅ Health Benefits
This salad isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with nutrients:
- Apples: High in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
- Feta Cheese: A great source of calcium and protein with a tangy kick.
- Nuts: Full of healthy fats, protein, and fiber for lasting energy.
- Greens: Rich in vitamins and minerals to support overall wellness.
🔄 Variations & Customization Tips
- Add Protein: Grilled chicken, turkey, shrimp, or chickpeas make it more filling.
- Switch Up the Cheese: Try goat cheese or blue cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Boost the Sweetness: Use maple syrup in the vinaigrette or add sliced grapes or pear.
- Extra Crunch: Use candied nuts or sprinkle on sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
🍽️ Perfect Pairings
This salad is a crowd-pleaser any time of year:
- Serve as a holiday side dish—perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
- Pack for a light lunch or serve alongside grilled meat or fish.
- Take to picnics or potlucks for a colorful, refreshing option everyone will love.
🧊 Serving & Storage Tips
Serving:
- Serve the salad immediately after adding dressing for the best texture and flavor.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, like mint or basil, for extra flair.
Storage:
- Unassembled Salad: Store the greens, apples (tossed with lemon juice), and toppings separately in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Dressing: Keep refrigerated in a jar for up to a week. Shake before using.
- Freezing: Not recommended—freshness is key for this dish!
❓ FAQs
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Prep the ingredients and store them separately. Assemble and dress just before serving.
What apples can I use instead of Honeycrisp?
Try Fuji, Pink Lady, or Gala—any crisp, sweet-tart variety will work well.
Is it vegetarian or vegan?
It’s vegetarian as written. To make it vegan, use dairy-free feta and substitute maple syrup for the honey.
How can I make it more filling?
Add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. Roasted tofu or quinoa also work great.
⭐️ Recipe Summary
Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad
Author: Stephanie | Prep Time: 15 minutes | Yield: 4 servings
A refreshing salad of crisp apples, creamy feta, and crunchy nuts tossed in a tangy honey mustard vinaigrette. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or holiday meals.