Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Apple Cider Salad is the ideal combination of sweet, tart, and savory flavors. The apple cider vinaigrette brings a unique twist to the usual salad dressing, offering a delightful tanginess that perfectly complements the crisp apples. Add in the crunch of nuts, the creaminess of cheese, and a touch of dried fruit, and you have a salad that’s bursting with textures and flavors. Not only is this salad quick and easy to prepare, but it’s also a great way to incorporate seasonal ingredients into your meals.

Ingredients

4 cups mixed salad greens (such as arugula, spinach, or romaine)
2 medium apples (such as Gala or Honeycrisp), thinly sliced
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese
1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts
1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins
1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced apples, crumbled cheese, toasted nuts, dried cranberries, and red onion.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until the dressing is well combined.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
Serve immediately, or chill the salad for 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

Add protein: For a more filling meal, top this salad with grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Swap the cheese: If you prefer a different cheese, try using blue cheese, sharp cheddar, or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
Use different nuts: Feel free to use any nuts you like, such as almonds, cashews, or pistachios, to suit your taste.
Change the fruit: Substitute apples with pears or add a mix of seasonal fruits like pomegranate seeds or grapes for a twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store the dressing separately and refrigerate the salad components for up to 1-2 days. Toss everything together just before serving.
Reheating: As this is a salad served cold, reheating is not necessary. Just chill the components or serve immediately after assembling.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of vinegar for the dressing?

Yes, you can substitute apple cider vinegar with balsamic vinegar, red wine vinegar, or white wine vinegar, depending on your preference.

2. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the salad ingredients in advance but wait to toss them with the dressing until just before serving to keep the greens from wilting.

3. Can I use store-bought dressing?

If you’re short on time, you can definitely use a store-bought apple cider vinaigrette. However, homemade dressing adds a fresh, personalized touch to the salad.

4. Can I add more vegetables to the salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables like cucumber, bell peppers, or even roasted beets for extra flavor and texture.

5. What kind of apples work best in this salad?

Crispy, sweet apples like Gala, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best in this salad, but feel free to experiment with other varieties that you enjoy.

6. Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, you can make this salad vegan by omitting the cheese or using a plant-based cheese alternative.

7. Can I use fresh herbs in the dressing?

Yes, fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can enhance the flavor of the dressing and complement the apples in the salad.

8. How long does the apple cider vinaigrette last?

The homemade apple cider vinaigrette can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

9. Can I add bacon or other meat to the salad?

Yes, crispy bacon or even roasted chicken would be a great addition for those who enjoy a heartier salad.

10. What can I serve this salad with?

This salad pairs well with a variety of dishes, such as grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a side for a Thanksgiving or holiday dinner.

Conclusion

Apple Cider Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines the crisp sweetness of apples with a tangy, homemade apple cider vinaigrette. It’s the perfect salad for fall, offering a mix of textures with fresh greens, crunchy nuts, and creamy cheese. Whether served as a side or a light meal, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy it as a healthy addition to any meal or as a stand-alone light bite!

Apple Cider Salad

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Apple Cider Salad combines crisp apples with a tangy apple cider vinaigrette, crunchy nuts, creamy cheese, and dried fruit, offering a refreshing and vibrant fall dish.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 4-6 servings
Category: Salad
Method: No-cook
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Prepare the salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced apples, crumbled cheese, toasted nuts, dried cranberries, and red onion.

Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Toss the salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
Serve: Serve immediately, or chill the salad for 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Notes

If you prefer, you can add more vegetables like cucumber, bell peppers, or roasted beets for extra flavor and texture.
Store any leftover salad dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
For a vegan version, use plant-based cheese or omit the cheese altogether.
Prepare the salad ingredients in advance, but wait to toss them with the dressing until just before serving to keep the greens fresh.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 160
Sugar: 14g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 5mg