CRUNCHY APPLE CRANBERRY SALAD

Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad: fresh, colorful ingredients closeup.
I remember the first Thanksgiving I was ever in charge of bringing a dish, I was so nervous! I wanted to impress everyone, and after much deliberation, I landed on something that felt festive, approachable, and, most importantly, delicious. That’s how I discovered the magic of a good Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad. Today, I’m sharing all my secrets for the most amazing Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad you’ll ever make – one that’s guaranteed to become a holiday staple!

Get ready to dive into a salad that’s not just healthy, but bursting with flavor and textures. We’re talking crisp apples, tart cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and a creamy dressing that ties it all together in perfect harmony. This Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad is the perfect side dish for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a festive holiday feast. And trust me, it’s so good, even your pickiest eaters will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Absolutely LOVE This Salad

Apple cranberry walnut salad: close-up of ingredients mixed in a bowl.

Before we get started, let’s talk about why this salad is a winner. It’s not just another boring green salad; it’s a flavor explosion in every bite!

  • It’s a crowd-pleaser: Seriously, everyone loves the combination of sweet, tart, and crunchy.
  • It’s quick and easy to make: You can whip this up in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
  • It’s versatile: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for a complete meal.
  • It’s healthy(ish!): While we do have a creamy dressing, it’s balanced with the goodness of apples, cranberries, and walnuts.
  • It’s visually appealing: This salad looks absolutely gorgeous on any table. The vibrant colors of the apples and cranberries make it a true showstopper.

What You’ll Need: The Ingredients List

Let’s gather our ingredients! Don’t worry, most of these are pantry staples.

  • Apples: I prefer using a combination of sweet and tart apples like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith for the best flavor. You’ll need about 2-3 medium apples, cored and diced.
  • Dried Cranberries: These add a wonderful tartness and chewiness. Use about 1 cup.
  • Walnuts: Toasted walnuts bring a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Use about ½ cup, roughly chopped.
  • Celery: Adds a refreshing crispness. Use about 2 stalks, thinly sliced.
  • Red Onion: A little bit of red onion adds a nice zing. Use about ¼ cup, finely diced. You can soak it in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow the flavor if you prefer a milder taste.
  • Mayonnaise: This forms the base of our creamy dressing. Use about ½ cup.
  • Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: This adds tang and richness. Use about ¼ cup. Greek Yogurt will also allow you to add more protein to this salad.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar: This brightens up the dressing and balances the sweetness. Use about 1 tablespoon.
  • Honey or Maple Syrup: Just a touch of sweetness to enhance the flavors. Use about 1 teaspoon.
  • Dijon Mustard: Adds a subtle tang and depth of flavor. Use about ½ teaspoon.
  • Salt and Pepper: To taste.
  • Optional: Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish. This adds a pop of color and freshness.

Let’s Make Some Magic: Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! This recipe is super straightforward, so don’t be intimidated.

  1. Prepare the Apples: Core and dice the apples into bite-sized pieces. To prevent browning, toss them with a little lemon juice (about 1 tablespoon) or apple cider vinegar. This step is crucial, especially if you’re preparing the salad ahead of time.
  2. Toast the Walnuts: Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn easily. Alternatively, you can toast them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes. Let them cool slightly before chopping.
  3. Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the diced apples, dried cranberries, toasted walnuts, sliced celery, and diced red onion.
  4. Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream or Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. I sometimes add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick!
  5. Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to coat everything evenly. Don’t overdress it; you want the salad to be lightly coated, not swimming in dressing.
  6. Chill (Optional): For the best flavor, cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired. This adds a pop of color and freshness. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Success Tips: Your Guide to Salad Perfection

Now, let’s talk about some golden tips that will guarantee a perfect Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad every single time.

  • Apple Variety Matters: Using a combination of sweet and tart apples creates the most balanced flavor profile. Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, and Pink Lady apples are great sweet options, while Granny Smith apples provide a lovely tartness. Experiment and find your favorite combination!
  • Toasting the Walnuts is Key: Don’t skip this step! Toasting the walnuts intensifies their flavor and adds a delightful crunch. It’s a game-changer, I promise!
  • Don’t Overdress: Nobody likes a soggy salad. Add the dressing gradually and toss gently until the salad is lightly coated. You can always add more dressing if needed.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: This salad can be made ahead of time, which is perfect for busy days or when you’re entertaining. However, I recommend adding the dressing just before serving to prevent the apples from getting too soft. You can prepare the salad ingredients and the dressing separately and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble.
  • Customize to Your Taste: Feel free to add other ingredients you love! Some great additions include crumbled blue cheese, chopped pecans, sunflower seeds, or even grilled chicken or chickpeas for a protein boost. Get creative and make it your own!

Variations: Let’s Get Creative!

The beauty of this salad is that it’s incredibly versatile. Here are a few variations to inspire you:

  • Add Protein: Turn this salad into a complete meal by adding grilled chicken, turkey, or chickpeas.
  • Cheese Please: Crumbled blue cheese, goat cheese, or feta cheese add a wonderful tangy and creamy element.
  • Nutty Goodness: Swap the walnuts for pecans, almonds, or sunflower seeds.
  • Sweet & Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing for a little kick.
  • Vegan Version: Use vegan mayonnaise and maple syrup instead of honey.

Serving Suggestions: More Than Just a Side Dish

While this salad is a fantastic side dish, it can also be used in so many other ways!

  • Sandwich Filling: Use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. It’s delicious with turkey, chicken, or even veggie burgers.
  • Lettuce Wraps: Spoon the salad into lettuce cups for a light and refreshing lunch.
  • Topping for Burgers: Add a scoop on top of your favorite burger for a burst of flavor and texture.
  • Breakfast Boost: Add a dollop to your morning yogurt or oatmeal for a healthy and delicious start to the day.
  • Elegant Appetizer: Serve individual portions in small bowls or glasses for an elegant appetizer.

Dressing Variations: Take It to the Next Level

The dressing is what really makes this salad shine. Here are a few variations to try:

  • Lemon Vinaigrette: Replace the mayonnaise and sour cream with olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, and salt and pepper.
  • Poppy Seed Dressing: Add 1-2 tablespoons of poppy seeds to the dressing for a nutty and slightly sweet flavor.
  • Honey Mustard Dressing: Use equal parts honey and Dijon mustard for a sweet and tangy dressing.
  • Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette: Combine balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and salt and pepper for a sophisticated and flavorful dressing.

Other Delicious Salads You Might Enjoy

If you’re a salad lover like me, you’ll definitely want to check out these other amazing recipes:

If you’re looking for something light and refreshing, you can’t go wrong with ASIAN CUCUMBER SALAD. Or, for a fun twist on a classic, try the CALIFORNIA ROLL CUCUMBER SALAD. Another great option is the simple and fresh Cucumber Tomato Salad. And if you want something creamy and comforting, the Creamy Cucumber Salad is a must-try!

Beyond Salads: Apple-Inspired Treats

If you have some extra apples on hand, why not whip up a sweet treat? The Apple Fritter Bites are always a hit. Or, for a fun and interactive dessert, try the Caramel Apple Nachos!

Storage Instructions: Keeping It Fresh

To store leftover Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad, transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2-3 days. However, keep in mind that the apples may soften over time. To prevent the salad from becoming too soggy, you can store the dressing separately and add it just before serving.

Final Thoughts: Your New Go-To Salad

So there you have it, folks! My foolproof recipe for the most delicious Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad you’ll ever make. It’s the perfect blend of sweet, tart, and crunchy, and it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, a sandwich filling, or a light lunch, this salad is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and make it your own. And most importantly, have fun in the kitchen!

What types of apples are best to use in the Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad?

The recipe suggests using a combination of sweet and tart apples like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith for the best flavor profile. Other good sweet options include Fuji, Gala, and Pink Lady.

How can I prevent the apples from browning in the salad?

To prevent the diced apples from browning, toss them with a little lemon juice (about 1 tablespoon) or apple cider vinegar after chopping them.

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

Yes, the salad can be made ahead of time. However, it is recommended to add the dressing just before serving to prevent the apples from getting too soft. You can prepare the salad ingredients and the dressing separately and store them in the refrigerator.

What are some variations I can make to the dressing?

You can try a Lemon Vinaigrette, Poppy Seed Dressing, Honey Mustard Dressing, or Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette instead of the standard creamy dressing.

Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad: fresh, colorful ingredients closeup.

Crunchy Apple Cranberry Salad

2d2355f94c641042967684431963d4defc336a20c3e4ce40660e13574c1dc566?s=30&d=mm&r=g - CRUNCHY APPLE CRANBERRY SALADAmelia
This Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad is a delightful blend of sweet, tart, and crunchy textures. It’s quick to make and perfect as a side dish or light meal, with crisp apples, tart cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and a creamy dressing that ties everything together.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Small bowl
  • Whisk
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Dry skillet
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Optional: Serving dish

Ingredients
  

  • 2-3 medium apples Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or a mix
  • 1 cup dried cranberries
  • ½ cup walnuts, roughly chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice for apples
  • Optional: Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Core and dice the apples into bite-sized pieces. Toss with lemon juice to prevent browning.
  • Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Alternatively, toast them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes. Let cool slightly and chop.
  • In a large bowl, combine the diced apples, dried cranberries, toasted walnuts, sliced celery, and diced red onion.
  • In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream or Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  • Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to coat everything evenly. Don’t overdress.
  • Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
  • Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired. Serve chilled.

Notes

For optimal flavor, use a mix of sweet and tart apples. Toasting the walnuts enhances their nutty flavor. Add the dressing just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. The salad can be customized with additions like crumbled blue cheese, chopped pecans, or grilled chicken for a more substantial meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days, but be aware the apples may soften over time. Consider storing the dressing separately to maintain crispness.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Amelia Chen-Morrison

Welcome to my Amelia Chen-Morrison kitchen! I love creating easy, flavorful recipes that bring families together around the table. Here you’ll find simple dishes, a bit of healthy inspiration, and snippets of my everyday life. So glad you’re here!

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