This Apple Walnut Salad is a refreshing balance of crisp, sweet apples, earthy walnuts, tangy blue cheese, and crunchy croutons—all tied together with a light maple-dijon vinaigrette.
What makes it especially appealing is its ability to satisfy multiple cravings at once: it’s crisp, creamy, salty, and sweet in every bite. Beyond taste, it’s a powerhouse of nutrition.
Walnuts provide heart-healthy omega-3 fats and plant-based protein, while apples deliver natural fiber for better digestion and satiety.
Blue cheese adds calcium and bold flavor without needing heavy dressing, keeping the salad lighter.
Since it’s ready in just 15 minutes, this recipe is perfect for everyday cooking—quick lunches, side salads for dinner, or even meal-prep bowls.
Whether you’re aiming for a wholesome, nutrient-rich meal or simply looking for a salad that feels indulgent yet balanced, this recipe delivers both health and flavor in one bowl.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
OXO Good Grips Salad Spinner
Ensures your greens are thoroughly washed and dried, preventing soggy salads. Beyond this recipe, it’s essential for keeping lettuce crisp and ready for meal prep.
Wüsthof Classic Chef’s Knife
Perfect for thinly slicing apples with precision. A high-quality chef’s knife saves time, improves safety, and is indispensable for everyday chopping, dicing, and slicing.
Pyrex Glass Mixing Bowls
Ideal for whisking the vinaigrette and tossing the salad without spills. Their durability and versatility make them a staple for prep, serving, and even storage.
Lodge Cast Iron Skillet
Great for lightly toasting walnuts to enhance their nutty flavor. Beyond salads, it’s a must-have pan for searing, sautéing, and oven-to-table cooking.
5. OXO Steel Salad Tongs:
Makes tossing and serving this salad effortless. Their sturdy grip and sleek design make them useful for everything from pasta to grilled veggies.
15-Minute Apple Walnut Salad
Equipment
- 1 Salad spinner
- 1 Chef’s Knife
- 1 Large mixing bowl
- 1 Small whisking bowl
- 1 Set of salad tongs
Ingredients
- 8 cups mixed greens
- 3 Cosmic Crisp apples cored and thinly sliced
- 1 cup blue cheese crumbled
- 1 ½ cups walnut halves
- 1 ½ cups thin bread croutons large pieces or squares
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing Base: In a small mixing bowl, combine the apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup. Whisk steadily until the mustard dissolves fully and the mixture looks smooth and golden. This base gives the vinaigrette its tangy-sweet balance, so take your time blending for a silky consistency before moving on.
- Emulsify the Vinaigrette: Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously. This technique helps the oil blend seamlessly with the vinegar mixture, creating a light, creamy dressing instead of a separated liquid. Season generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper, then taste and adjust if you prefer a sharper, sweeter, or milder profile.
- Assemble the Salad Greens: In a large serving bowl, add the mixed greens, making sure they are completely dry for the freshest crunch. Layer in the thinly sliced Cosmic Crisp apples and scatter the walnut halves evenly throughout. Pour about two-thirds of the vinaigrette over the top, then gently toss with tongs to coat everything lightly without bruising the delicate greens.
- Add Final Garnishes and Serve: Sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese evenly across the salad, followed by the croutons for extra crunch and heartiness. Give the salad one last gentle toss so the toppings are distributed but not crushed. Transfer to a serving platter or individual bowls, then drizzle on a little more dressing if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use Cosmic Crisp apples for their natural sweetness and firm bite, but Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala are great substitutes.
- Lightly toast the walnuts in a dry skillet for extra flavor and crunch.
- Swap blue cheese with feta, goat cheese, or shaved Parmesan if you prefer a milder taste.
- Homemade croutons made from rustic bread add more texture and flavor than store-bought ones.
- Always dress the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp and fresh.
Chef’s Secrets for Perfect Salad
The secret to making this salad shine lies in balancing texture and flavor.
Crisp, cold apples contrast beautifully with creamy cheese, while crunchy walnuts and croutons provide satisfying bite.
Toasting walnuts enhances their nutty depth, and thinly slicing the apples ensures they blend seamlessly with the greens.
To prevent apples from browning if prepping ahead, toss them in a splash of lemon juice.
When whisking the vinaigrette, add oil slowly to achieve the smoothest consistency.
Finally, toss the salad gently with dressing to coat evenly without wilting the greens—this keeps everything vibrant and appetizing.
Serving Suggestions for Every Occasion
This salad is versatile enough for any meal. Serve it as a light lunch paired with whole-grain bread or soup, or as a side dish alongside roasted chicken, salmon, or grilled steak.
It also makes an elegant starter for holiday dinners or dinner parties because of its festive colors and layered flavors.
For a heartier version, add protein like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa to make it a complete meal.
When entertaining, serve on a large platter for a beautiful presentation that invites guests to dig in.
Storage Tips for Freshness and Flavor
To store leftovers, keep the greens, toppings, and dressing separate until ready to serve.
Mixed salad tends to wilt quickly once dressed, so only combine what you’ll eat immediately.
Store apples in an airtight container with a squeeze of lemon juice to prevent browning.
The vinaigrette can be made ahead and refrigerated in a sealed jar for up to one week—just shake before using.
Walnuts stay freshest when kept in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer to maintain their crunch and prevent bitterness
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but keep the dressing separate until serving. Prep the apples, walnuts, and cheese ahead, then toss everything together right before eating to keep the greens fresh and crisp.
2. What can I use instead of blue cheese?
If you prefer milder flavors, try crumbled feta, goat cheese, or even shaved Parmesan. Each adds creaminess and tang but in a slightly different way.
3. How can I make this salad vegan?
Skip the blue cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative. Ensure your croutons are vegan-friendly, and the rest of the salad is naturally plant-based.
4. Can I use a different nut instead of walnuts?
Absolutely! Pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts work beautifully. Toasting them lightly enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch.
5. How do I keep apples from browning?
Toss sliced apples in a little lemon juice or apple cider vinegar. This prevents oxidation, keeping them fresh-looking and appetizing for longer.
This recipe has been adapted and simplified from the original version by sabrinacurrie. We’ve refined the steps for a smoother cooking experience and added helpful notes, nutrition insights, and essential kitchen tools to make it even easier for home cooks.
