Description
A vibrant and refreshing fall salad combining crisp mixed greens, sweet apple slices, crunchy nuts, and tart dried cranberries, all drizzled with a sweet-tart homemade cranberry vinaigrette. Perfect for a light meal or holiday side dish.
Ingredients
Salad
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 apple, sliced
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup pecans or walnuts
- Optional: goat cheese, crumbled
Cranberry Vinaigrette
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp cranberry juice
- 1 tbsp vinegar (apple cider or red wine vinegar)
- 1 tsp honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced apple, dried cranberries, and pecans or walnuts. If desired, sprinkle crumbled goat cheese on top for added creaminess.
- Make the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, cranberry juice, vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well emulsified and smooth.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the cranberry vinaigrette over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together until the greens and toppings are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Serve: Divide the salad between plates or bowls and enjoy immediately to maintain the crisp freshness of the greens and apples.
Notes
- For added sweetness and color, try adding mandarin orange segments to the salad.
- Fresh pomegranate seeds can be used instead of dried cranberries for a juicy burst of flavor.
- To make it vegan, substitute honey with agave syrup or maple syrup.
- Toast the nuts lightly for enhanced flavor and crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
