Fresh and colorful Apple Walnut Salad with greens, apples, walnuts, and dressing

Apple Walnut Salad Fast Crisp Greens

28 décembre 2025 par Chef Hanna Zest

Introduction
This apple walnut salad is built for busy evenings and quick lunches. Crisp apple, crunchy toasted walnuts, and tangy feta come together in minutes. It uses pantry staples and a simple balsamic dressing that you can whisk while you chop. Try pairing it with a hearty weeknight protein for a full meal like the crispy buffalo tofu with creamy caesar salad for contrast and speed.

Why This Recipe Works

This salad is a smart mix of textures and flavors that require almost no cooking. Toasting walnuts brings out their oils and doubles their flavor with just a few minutes on the stove or in the oven. Using prewashed mixed greens saves prep time and keeps the salad light and fresh. The dressing is a simple emulsion of olive oil and balsamic vinegar that brightens the apples and balances the salty feta. Dried cranberries add chewy sweetness so you do not need extra sugar. Minimal chopping and a quick toss mean you can have this on the table in under half an hour.

Flavor and Texture

Sweet apple slices meet salty crumbled feta for a classic contrast. Toasted walnuts add a warm nutty crunch that stands up to the greens. Thin red onion slices give a clean bite without overwhelming the palate. Dried cranberries add pockets of concentrated sweetness and chew. The olive oil and balsamic dressing ties everything together with a smooth tang that coats each leaf lightly.

Ingredients

– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1 apple, cored and sliced
– 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste

Step by Step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, apple slices, walnuts, feta cheese, cranberries, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately.

Quick Tips and Shortcuts

Buy pretoasted walnuts or toast a big batch and store them for the week to save time. Use prewashed baby greens so you can skip drying and still keep the salad crisp. If you are packing this for lunch, keep dressing separate until ready to eat to avoid soggy leaves. Swap in goat cheese if you want a tangier melt that blends quickly with the dressing. For a faster chop, use a mandoline or a food processor for the apple slices, but go easy so they do not bruise. For a little extra protein without cooking add canned chickpeas or preroasted chicken.

Storage and Meal Prep

Store the salad components separately for the best texture. Keep greens and apples in an airtight container with a paper towel to absorb moisture. Walnuts and dried cranberries can be combined and stored in a small container at room temperature. The dressing will keep in the fridge for up to five days; bring it to room temperature and rewhisk before using. When packing lunches, place dressing in a small jar or container so you can toss just before eating.

Short Closing Note

Simple swaps make this apple walnut salad work for many meals and tastes. It is fast, fresh, and perfect for people on the go.

FAQ

Can this be made in under 30 minutes?

Yes, the recipe is designed to be quick and efficient.

Does it work for meal prep?

Most versions store well for one to three days.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Yes, simple swaps can be made for convenience or dietary needs.