Apple Walnut Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing is a fresh, crisp, and flavor-packed salad that celebrates the best of fall. The sweetness of apples, the crunch of toasted walnuts, the creamy tang of cheese, and the peppery bite of greens come together in perfect harmony.

What truly elevates this salad is the homemade Maple Dijon Dressing — a blend of pure maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, and apple cider vinegar that adds a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy depth.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication. The crisp apples and crunchy walnuts pair beautifully with the silky, sweet-tart dressing that coats every bite. It’s wholesome, refreshing, and satisfying without being heavy.

I also adore how customizable it is — you can switch up the greens, the cheese, or the nuts depending on what you have on hand.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This salad is a must-try because it’s more than just a side — it’s a symphony of flavors in every forkful. The combination of sweet, crunchy, and creamy elements makes it incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even as a festive holiday salad.

The Maple Dijon Dressing ties everything together with a flavor that feels both cozy and refreshing — ideal for fall but delicious all year round.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 5 minutes (for toasting walnuts)
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: Approximately 250–280 kcal per serving
• Course: Salad / Side Dish
• Cuisine: American / Modern

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 6 cups mixed greens (baby spinach, arugula, or romaine)
• 2 medium apples (Honeycrisp or Fuji), thinly sliced
• ½ cup walnuts, toasted
• ⅓ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
• ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup dried cranberries (optional)

For the Maple Dijon Dressing

• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1½ tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Cooking Directions

1. Toast the Walnuts: Heat a small pan over medium heat. Add walnuts and toast for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool.
2. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine greens, sliced apples, red onion, and toasted walnuts.
4. Add Cheese and Dressing: Add crumbled feta (or goat cheese) and drizzle with the prepared dressing. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
5. Serve Immediately: Serve the salad fresh with extra dressing on the side if desired.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prepare Ingredients: Wash and dry all salad greens thoroughly. Thinly slice apples and red onion.
2. Toast the Walnuts: Place walnuts in a dry skillet and toast for a few minutes until golden and aromatic. This step enhances flavor and crunch.
3. Whisk the Dressing: In a bowl or jar, whisk olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, vinegar, and lemon juice. Season to taste.
4. Combine the Salad: Add greens, apples, onion, and walnuts to a large bowl. Pour dressing over and toss lightly to mix.
5. Top and Serve: Sprinkle crumbled cheese and cranberries on top. Serve immediately while apples are crisp and fresh.

How to Serve

Serve Apple Walnut Salad as a light lunch, side dish, or starter. It pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or creamy soups like butternut squash or tomato bisque. For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. Serve in a chilled salad bowl or on a large platter for a family-style presentation. For special occasions, garnish with extra cheese crumbles and a drizzle of maple syrup for a restaurant-quality touch.

Recipe Tips

• Prevent browning: Toss sliced apples in a little lemon juice before adding to the salad.
• Use fresh greens: Crisp greens like spinach, arugula, or a spring mix work best.
• Toast nuts: Always toast your nuts — it brings out their natural oils and enhances their nutty flavor.
• Make ahead: You can prep the dressing and toast the nuts ahead of time. Assemble the salad just before serving.
• Balance the flavor: Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by adding a touch more maple syrup or lemon juice as desired.

Variations

• Pear Walnut Salad: Replace apples with ripe pears for a softer texture and delicate sweetness.
• Autumn Harvest Salad: Add roasted butternut squash, pumpkin seeds, and dried figs for a fall-inspired twist.
• Vegan Version: Skip the cheese or replace it with vegan feta or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, turkey, or tofu for a satisfying main-course salad.
• Nut-Free Option: Replace walnuts with sunflower seeds or roasted chickpeas for crunch.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftover salad (without dressing) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Dressing Storage: Keep the Maple Dijon Dressing in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 1 week. Shake well before each use.
• Freezing: Not recommended — the fresh produce and dressing do not freeze well and may lose texture upon thawing.

Special Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls (large and small)
• Whisk or small jar with lid (for dressing)
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Salad tongs or serving spoons
• Skillet (for toasting walnuts)

FAQ

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prep the ingredients and dressing separately. Assemble just before serving to keep everything crisp.

Q: What type of apple works best?
A: Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Pink Lady are ideal — they’re crisp, sweet, and hold up well in salads.

Q: Can I use a different cheese?
A: Absolutely! Try blue cheese, sharp cheddar, or shaved Parmesan for different flavor profiles.

Q: How do I keep the apples from turning brown?
A: Toss apple slices in lemon juice or apple cider vinegar before adding to the salad.

Q: Can I use bottled dressing instead?
A: While store-bought dressings can work, the homemade Maple Dijon version adds unmatched freshness and flavor.

Conclusion

Apple Walnut Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing is a celebration of freshness, texture, and balance. The crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, and creamy cheese come together beautifully under the golden, tangy-sweet dressing. It’s elegant enough for special occasions yet simple enough for everyday meals. This salad proves that wholesome ingredients, when paired thoughtfully, can create something truly delightful. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or a festive side dish, it’s a recipe that brings warmth, color, and flavor to every table.