Pin This Winter salads used to feel like an oxymoron to me until my sister brought this apple and walnut creation to a January dinner party. The crunch of fresh apples against the backdrop of a gray afternoon made everything feel brighter somehow. Now it is my go-to when I need something that says celebration without requiring hours at the stove.
Last Christmas I served this alongside my roast chicken and my usually salad skeptical father went back for thirds. There is something about the combination of textures that makes people pause and take notice.
Ingredients
- 2 large crisp apples: Honeycrisp or Granny Smith hold their shape beautifully and provide that essential snap
- 1 small celery stalk: Thinly sliced it adds a subtle peppery crunch that balances the sweetness
- 50 g mixed salad greens: Arugula brings bite while baby spinach adds tender leaves
- 80 g walnuts: Roughly chopped for satisfying texture throughout every forkful
- 60 g crumbled blue cheese or feta: Optional but creates a creamy counterpoint to the crisp elements
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: The foundation that carries all the flavors
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar: Lemon juice works too but vinegar gives that classic tang
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup: Just enough to round out the acidity
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard: The secret ingredient that makes the dressing cling to every leaf
- Salt and pepper: Freshly ground pepper makes all the difference here
Instructions
- Whisk the dressing:
- In a small bowl combine olive oil vinegar honey mustard salt and pepper whisking until the mixture turns cloudy and thickened
- Combine the salad:
- In a large bowl toss together the sliced apples celery greens and walnuts
- Add the dressing:
- Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently with your hands to coat everything evenly
- Finish with cheese:
- Sprinkle the crumbled cheese over the top right before serving
Pin This This salad has become my signature contribution to potlucks because it travels well and always disappears first. People constantly ask for the recipe surprised by how something so simple tastes so extraordinary.
Making It Your Own
Pears substitute beautifully for apples especially in autumn when they are at their peak. The same dressing works wonders and the slight flavor change keeps things interesting.
Wine Pairing Magic
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or dry Riesling cuts through the walnuts and complements the apples sweetness. I have found that a chilled rosé works surprisingly well too especially for summer gatherings.
Festive Upgrades
Sometimes the simplest additions transform this into a holiday showstopper.
- Dried cranberries add pops of tart sweetness and jewel tones
- Pomegranate seeds make it look like something from a magazine spread
- A handful of fresh mint leaves brings unexpected brightness
Pin This This salad proves that winter eating does not have to be heavy or complicated. Just crisp fresh ingredients and a moment to toss them together.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I prepare this salad in advance?
For best results, prepare the dressing and slice ingredients ahead, but toss everything together just before serving to maintain crispness. The apples stay fresh longer when tossed with a little lemon juice.
- → What cheese substitutes work well?
Goat cheese, shaved Parmesan, or aged cheddar offer delicious alternatives. For dairy-free versions, omit cheese entirely or use nutritional yeast for savory depth.
- → How do I toast walnuts properly?
Spread walnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes, shaking halfway through. Watch carefully as nuts can burn quickly.
- → Can I use other fruits?
Pears make an excellent substitute for apples, offering similar crunch and sweetness. Dried cranberries, pomegranate seeds, or sliced grapes add festive color and flavor variations.
- → What wine pairs best?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the tangy vinaigrette, while dry Riesling balances the sweetness of apples and honey. For red wine lovers, a light Pinot Noir works nicely.
- → Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. If using pre-packaged items like mustard or vinegar, always check labels to ensure no gluten-containing additives.