Fresh Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad

This Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad brings together crisp autumn flavors in every single bite. My family asks for this fresh, vibrant salad whenever we gather around the dinner table.

Nothing beats the sweet crunch of apples paired with tart cranberries and toasted nuts. You can practically taste the seasons changing with each colorful forkful you take.

Why You will adore this Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad

I love watching people’s faces light up when they taste this salad for the first time. The combination of textures keeps everyone coming back for more helpings at every meal.

You’ll find yourself making this Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad for potlucks, holidays, and weeknight dinners alike. The balance of sweet, tart, and savory flavors makes it incredibly versatile year-round.

Each ingredient plays its part perfectly – from the crispy apples to the chewy cranberries. The candied walnuts add just the right amount of richness and crunch to tie everything together.

What you will need to make this Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad

• 2 medium red apples – I prefer using Honeycrisp or Gala for their sweet-tart balance and crisp texture
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – essential for preventing those apple slices from turning brown
• 5 cups mixed baby greens – a blend of spinach, arugula, and spring mix works beautifully
• 1/2 medium red onion – slice it thin for the perfect bite without overwhelming the other flavors
• 2/3 cup dried cranberries – plump these babies up for the best texture and flavor
• 3 tablespoons crumbled goat cheese – you can substitute with feta if that’s what you have on hand

For the Candied Walnuts:

• 1 tablespoon butter – salted butter adds that perfect hint of savory contrast
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar – this creates that gorgeous caramel coating on the nuts
• 1 cup walnut halves – pecans work wonderfully too if you prefer them instead

For the Simple Vinaigrette:

• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar – complements the apples perfectly and adds bright acidity
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil – choose a good quality oil for the best flavor
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard – this helps emulsify the dressing and adds depth
• 1 tablespoon honey – balances the tartness and brings everything together harmoniously
• 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – season to taste for the perfect balance

The beauty of this Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad lies in using fresh, quality ingredients. I always choose apples that feel firm and heavy, with smooth, unblemished skin for the best results.

How I Make This Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad

1. Start by making those irresistible candied walnuts in a small skillet over medium heat. Melt the butter first, then sprinkle in the sugar evenly across the pan surface.

2. Watch carefully as the sugar begins to bubble and caramelize – this takes about 2-3 minutes. Add your walnuts and stir constantly for 2-3 minutes until they’re golden and fragrant.

3. Quickly transfer the candied walnuts onto parchment paper and spread them apart to cool completely. The kitchen will smell absolutely divine at this point, I promise you.

4. While the nuts cool, place your dried cranberries in a small bowl. Pour hot water over them and let them soak for 8-10 minutes to plump up nicely.

5. Wash and dry your mixed greens thoroughly, then place them in your largest serving bowl. Nobody wants soggy salad, so make sure they’re completely dry before proceeding.

6. Core and slice your apples into thin wedges, leaving the skin on for extra color. Immediately toss with lemon juice to prevent browning – this step is crucial for presentation.

7. Slice your red onion as thinly as possible using a sharp knife or mandoline. The thinner slices distribute more evenly and won’t overpower the delicate apple flavors.

8. Make your dressing by whisking together vinegar, olive oil, mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. I like to use a small mason jar and shake vigorously for 30 seconds.

9. Drain the plumped cranberries and pat them dry with paper towels. Roughly chop half of your cooled candied walnuts, leaving some whole for visual appeal.

10. Add the apple slices and red onion to your greens, then drizzle with half the dressing. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to coat each leaf evenly.

11. Top with the plumped cranberries, candied walnuts, and crumbled goat cheese. Drizzle the remaining dressing over the top and serve immediately for the best texture contrast.

My Personal Tips for this Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad

I always make extra candied walnuts because they disappear faster than you’d expect them to. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to two weeks – perfect for snacking too.

You can prepare most components ahead of time, but wait to dress the salad until serving. Pre-dressed greens become wilted and sad, which nobody wants to eat at dinner.

Easy homemade cranberry apple chutney makes a wonderful addition to this salad when you want something extra special for guests.

Can I make this Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad ahead of time?

Yes, but with some smart preparation steps to maintain the best texture and flavor. Prepare the candied walnuts, plump the cranberries, and make the dressing up to two days ahead.

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What’s the best way to store leftover salad?

Store undressed components separately in the refrigerator for up to three days maximum. The apples will brown despite lemon juice after this point, so plan accordingly.

Can I substitute different nuts in this recipe?

Absolutely – pecans, almonds, or even toasted pine nuts work beautifully in this salad. Follow the same candying technique for whatever nuts you choose to use instead.

Follow me on Pinterest for more seasonal salad inspiration and fresh recipe ideas! I share new combinations every week that my family absolutely loves.

How do I prevent the apples from browning?

Toss apple slices with lemon juice immediately after cutting them into pieces. The acid creates a protective barrier that keeps them looking fresh and appetizing.

For a sweet finishing touch, try serving this alongside ultimate berry cranberry sauce for an extra burst of autumn flavors.

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Perfect moments for this Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad

This salad shines brightest during autumn gatherings when apples are at their peak crispness. I serve it alongside roasted chicken, grilled pork tenderloin, or as a light lunch option.

Holiday dinners feel incomplete without this colorful addition to our dinner table spread.

The Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad pairs beautifully with traditional roasted meats and rich, hearty side dishes perfectly.