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Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.8 from 13 reviews
  • Author: Sue
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad is a delightful mix of crisp Honeycrisp apples, creamy feta cheese, and crunchy toasted pecans combined with a tangy apple cider vinaigrette. Perfect for celebrating fall flavors, this refreshing salad balances sweet, tangy, and crunchy elements, making it an ideal side dish or light meal.


Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

  • 6 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
  • 1 large Honeycrisp apple, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/3 cup pecans, toasted (or walnuts)
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds (optional)
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Salad Base: In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, thinly sliced Honeycrisp apple, red onion, and dried cranberries to create a colorful and flavorful base for the salad.
  2. Add Cheese and Nuts: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese, toasted pecans, and pumpkin seeds (if using) evenly over the salad base to add creaminess and crunch.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified and well combined to achieve a tangy, sweet, and balanced dressing.
  4. Toss the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently but thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly without making the greens soggy.
  5. Garnish: Top the salad with pomegranate seeds and fresh thyme leaves for an extra burst of flavor and attractive presentation, if desired.
  6. Serve: Serve the salad immediately as a refreshing side dish or a light main meal to enjoy the textures and flavors at their best.

Notes

  • Cheese Alternatives: Substitute feta with goat cheese or blue cheese for varying flavor profiles.
  • Nuts: Walnuts or almonds can be used instead of pecans for different textures and tastes.
  • Fruit: Add slices of pear or orange to enhance the fall flavor dimension.
  • Greens: Kale or romaine lettuce can replace the mixed greens based on preference.