Crisp, sweet, and satisfying – that’s the promise of this Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad. The brilliance of this recipe lies in its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The juicy Honeycrisp apples provide a burst of sweetness, while the salty feta cheese adds a creamy tang. Toasted pecans deliver a delightful crunch, and the maple-cider vinaigrette ties everything together with a harmonious blend of sweet and sour.
This salad isn’t just a side; it’s a complete experience. It’s light enough for a refreshing lunch, elegant enough to serve as a starter for a dinner party, and simple enough to throw together on a busy weeknight. The interplay of sweet, savory, and crunchy will leave you wanting more.
Why you’ll love this Ultimate Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad with Apple Feta Salad
- Ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The combination of Honeycrisp apples, feta, and pecans delivers an explosion of flavor in every bite.
- It’s a versatile dish that works as a light lunch, side salad, or appetizer.
- This apple feta salad is easily customizable with your favorite nuts, dried fruits, or protein additions.
- The maple-cider vinaigrette perfectly complements the other ingredients, creating a balanced and delicious dressing.
- It’s a great way to enjoy seasonal produce and create a healthy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 2 Honeycrisp apples, cored and diced
- 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Apple feta salad makes every moment feel velvety. For a nut-free option, try substituting sunflower seeds for the pecans. If you don’t have maple syrup, honey works as a great alternative. Consider using a balsamic vinaigrette instead of the maple-cider for a slightly different flavor profile.
How to make Ultimate Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This vinaigrette can be made ahead of time.
Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced Honeycrisp apples, crumbled feta cheese, toasted pecans, and dried cranberries.
Step 3: Dress the Salad
Pour the maple-cider vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately.
Chef’s Tip: To prevent the apples from browning, toss them with a little lemon juice before adding them to the salad.
Tips for Success
- Toast the pecans properly to bring out their nutty flavor. Watch them carefully in a dry skillet, as they can burn quickly.
- Don’t overdress the salad. Add the vinaigrette gradually until the greens are lightly coated.
- Use high-quality feta cheese for the best flavor.
- For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the vinaigrette.
Serving Suggestions
This Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad is delicious on its own as a light lunch or side dish. It pairs well with grilled chicken or fish for a more substantial meal. Consider serving it alongside honey lime chicken for a complete and flavorful dinner. You could also serve it as a starter before a heartier main course.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best to store the dressing separately and add it just before serving to prevent the greens from becoming soggy. The toasted pecans may lose some of their crunch over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but wait to dress the salad until just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting.
Can I substitute another type of apple?
Absolutely! While Honeycrisp apples are ideal due to their sweetness and crispness, you can use other varieties like Fuji or Gala. Cinnamon-glazed apples would also add a nice touch.
Is this salad vegetarian?
Yes, this salad is vegetarian as it contains no meat or poultry.
The Ultimate Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad is a testament to the power of simple, fresh ingredients. The combination of sweet, salty, and crunchy is truly irresistible, making it a crowd-pleasing dish for any occasion. Its ease of preparation and versatility make it a must-try recipe for anyone looking to add a touch of culinary delight to their meals. Share your variations and experiences in the comments below!
Ultimate Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad
Experience fall in every bite with this Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad. The crisp, sweet apples perfectly complement the salty, creamy feta, creating a delightful explosion of flavors and textures. Toasted pecans add a satisfying crunch, while a tangy maple-cider vinaigrette ties it all together. This salad is incredibly easy to make and perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or even a refreshing starter for your next dinner party. The combination of sweet, savory, and crunchy makes it irresistible!
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 2 Honeycrisp apples, cored and diced
- 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced Honeycrisp apples, crumbled feta cheese, toasted pecans, and dried cranberries.
- Pour the maple-cider vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately.
Notes
For best results, toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, or until fragrant. You can substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans. The salad can be made ahead of time, but wait to add the dressing until just before serving to prevent the greens from becoming soggy. Feel free to add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein. Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 25mg