Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad is a fresh and colorful mix that combines crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, and tangy cranberries. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tart with a satisfying crunch in every bite. This salad brings a lovely mix of textures and flavors that feels both light and filling.
I love making this salad because it’s so easy to put together and always feels special. Adding a simple dressing with a touch of honey and lemon juice really brightens it up. I like to toss everything gently so the walnuts stay crunchy and the apples stay crisp — it just makes the whole salad taste better.
This salad works great as a side dish for lunch or dinner, especially in the fall when apples and cranberries are in season. I also enjoy it as a quick snack or even a light lunch on its own. Whenever I bring this to a gathering, it’s always the first dish to get picked at, which makes me feel like a salad superstar!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Romaine Lettuce: This gives the salad a crisp and fresh base. You can swap it for spinach, arugula, or mixed greens if you prefer a different texture or flavor.
Apple: Fuji or Honeycrisp apples add a nice balance of sweetness and crunch. If you don’t have these, Granny Smith gives a tart contrast, or Gala apples for mild sweetness.
Walnuts: Toasted walnuts bring a toasty crunch and nutty flavor. If you’re allergic or want a change, pecans or almonds work well too.
Dried Cranberries: Their tartness brightens the salad. You can substitute with dried cherries or golden raisins for different sweet-tart profiles.
Blue Cheese Crumbles (optional): Adds creaminess and sharp flavor. Feel free to leave it out, or substitute with feta or goat cheese for a milder taste.
Dressing: The mix of olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey balances sweet and tangy perfectly. You can swap apple cider vinegar for balsamic or lemon juice if preferred.
How Do I Keep Apples from Browning in This Salad?
To keep your apple slices looking fresh and crunchy:
- Slice the apples just before adding to the salad to reduce browning time.
- Toss apple slices in a little lemon juice or the salad dressing immediately after cutting. The acid helps slow browning.
- Gently mix the salad to avoid bruising the apples, which can speed up browning.
- If prepping ahead, keep the apples separate and add just before serving.
These tips help keep your salad vibrant and appetizing!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large salad bowl – I like this because it’s big enough to toss everything without spills.
- Whisk or fork – makes mixing the dressing easy and quick.
- Cutting board and sharp knife – perfect for slicing apples and chopping lettuce.
- Measuring spoons and cups – keep your ingredients accurate for balanced flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap blue cheese for feta or goat cheese for a milder, creamier option.
- Include toasted almonds or pecans instead of walnuts for a different crunch.
- Add cooked chicken or turkey slices for extra protein and make it a filling meal.
- Mix in sliced pears or oranges to add more juicy, citrusy notes.
Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 large apple (such as Fuji or Honeycrisp), thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare from start to finish. It’s quick to chop, mix, and toss together — perfect for when you want something fresh and delicious without a lot of fuss.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
Start by chopping the romaine lettuce and placing it into a large salad bowl. Thinly slice the apple, then add the apple slices, toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, and blue cheese crumbles (if using) on top of the lettuce.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk until everything is well combined and smooth.
3. Combine Salad and Dressing:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss gently, making sure to coat all the lettuce, apples, and nuts without crushing the walnuts or bruising the apples.
4. Serve Immediately:
Once tossed, serve the salad right away for the freshest, crunchiest taste. Enjoy your crisp and flavorful Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad!
Can I Use Frozen Walnuts in This Salad?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before adding to the salad to keep their crunch and avoid excess moisture.
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
It’s best to prep the ingredients separately and toss everything together right before serving. This keeps the apples crisp and the lettuce fresh without wilting.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Avoid storing the salad with dressing mixed in to prevent sogginess.
What Can I Substitute for Blue Cheese?
If blue cheese isn’t your favorite, feta or goat cheese are great alternatives that add creaminess without overpowering the salad flavors.