Name: Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 Honeycrisp apples, thinly sliced; 4 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, or mixed greens); 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional); 1/4 cup dried cranberries; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

A refreshing blend of crisp Honeycrisp apples, tangy feta cheese, and crunchy nuts, this salad is a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. It's perfect as a light lunch or a vibrant side dish for any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I find this salad incredibly easy to prepare, yet it feels fresh and exciting every time I make it. The Honeycrisp apples add a delightful crunch and a touch of sweetness, while the feta brings in a creamy, slightly salty contrast. I often add walnuts for a nutty crunch, and the dried cranberries bring in a touch of tartness and sweetness that balances everything perfectly. The homemade dressing is simple but adds just the right zing with the apple cider vinegar and honey, creating a well-rounded flavor profile. It’s a salad that works great as a standalone lunch or as a side dish to just about any main course.

Ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 Honeycrisp apples, thinly sliced
4 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, or mixed greens)
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
¼ cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
¼ cup dried cranberries
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

In a large bowl, I combine the mixed salad greens, sliced apples, feta cheese, walnuts (if using), and dried cranberries.
In a small bowl, I whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until the dressing is well combined.
I drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
I serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Variations

Add protein: For a heartier meal, I sometimes add grilled chicken or shrimp to make this salad more filling.
Cheese alternatives: If I don’t have feta on hand, goat cheese or blue cheese works wonderfully as a substitute.
Nuts and seeds: I love experimenting with different nuts. I could use almonds, pecans, or even pumpkin seeds for a twist.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if I have leftovers, I typically store the salad components separately to keep everything fresh. I store the salad greens, apples, and any extras like walnuts or cranberries in an airtight container in the fridge. The dressing can be kept in a separate jar. When I’m ready to eat, I simply toss everything together and add the dressing.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple for this salad?

Yes, I’ve made this with Granny Smith apples before, and they add a nice tartness. I can try other apple varieties, but Honeycrisp apples give a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch.

Can I make the salad ahead of time?

I don’t recommend assembling the salad ahead of time, as the apples might brown and the greens can wilt. However, I can prepare the ingredients separately and combine them just before serving.

How can I make the dressing thicker?

If I want a thicker dressing, I can add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or Greek yogurt to the mix. This will help emulsify the dressing and create a creamier texture.

Can I substitute the olive oil with another oil?

Yes, I can use other oils like avocado oil or even a light vegetable oil, though olive oil gives the best flavor in this salad.

How long will the salad last in the fridge?

The salad is best eaten fresh, but if I store the components separately, they should last for 2-3 days. However, the dressing will last up to a week in the fridge.

Conclusion

This Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad is a light, vibrant, and flavorful dish that comes together in just 10 minutes. Whether I’m enjoying it as a quick lunch or serving it as a side dish for dinner, it’s always a hit. The combination of fresh apples, creamy feta, and crunchy walnuts, paired with a simple yet tangy dressing, makes for a truly satisfying and refreshing salad.