Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple & Feta Salad

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Celebrate the flavors of fall with this refreshing Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple & Feta Salad. Crisp Honeycrisp apples, creamy feta cheese, and mixed greens come together in a delightful harmony of sweet and savory tastes. Tossed in a light vinaigrette, this salad is perfect as a side dish or a light meal, making it a must-try for your autumn gatherings and holiday feasts.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-10-29T06:05:41.173Z

This salad is a delightful twist on traditional autumn dishes, offering a fresh and vibrant option for any meal.

        Why You’ll Love This Salad
        Fresh, crisp flavors that celebrate the season
Perfect balance of sweet and savory
Quick and easy to prepare

      

The Perfect Salad for Fall

As the leaves turn shades of red and gold, it's the perfect time to embrace the wholesome ingredients of the season. This Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple & Feta Salad brings the essence of fall right to your table. The Honeycrisp apples, known for their perfect crunch and sweetness, pair beautifully with creamy feta and toasted walnuts, creating a delightful texture that balances each bite.

Mixed greens provide a fresh base that enhances the flavors of the dish, while dried cranberries add little bursts of tartness. This combination not only tantalizes the taste buds but also offers a colorful presentation that makes your salad pop. It's an eye-catching addition to any autumn gathering or holiday feast.

Nutritional Benefits

This salad doesn’t just taste amazing, it’s also packed with nutrients that are beneficial for your health. Honeycrisp apples are high in fiber and vitamin C, promoting digestion and boosting your immune system. Feta cheese adds a dose of calcium, and walnuts are a great source of healthy fats and omega-3s, which are known to support heart health.

The addition of mixed greens contributes various vitamins and antioxidants vital for overall health. Each ingredient in this salad not only enhances its flavor but also offers health benefits, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is incredibly versatile. It works wonderfully as a side dish next to roasted meats or served alongside a hearty grain-based entrée. If you're looking for a lighter meal, it's filling enough on its own, especially if you add protein such as grilled chicken or chickpeas.

Perfect for potlucks and family gatherings, the Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple & Feta Salad can be made ahead of time—just dress it right before serving to keep the greens crisp. Your guests will be sure to appreciate this refreshing and seasonal addition to their plates.

Ingredients

For the Salad

4 Honeycrisp apples, sliced
4 cups mixed greens
1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup dried cranberries

For the Vinaigrette

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the sliced Honeycrisp apples, mixed greens, feta cheese, walnuts, and dried cranberries.

Dress the Salad

Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately.

Vinaigrette Variations

While the basic vinaigrette for this salad is delightful, feel free to experiment with different flavors that suit your palate. For a citrusy twist, add a splash of orange juice or zest to your vinaigrette. If you prefer a tangy punch, substituting red wine vinegar for apple cider vinegar can add a delightful difference.

Adding herbs like fresh thyme or dill can also elevate the dressing, providing an aromatic element that complements the sweetness of the apples. Don't hesitate to get creative—your salad can evolve with each preparation!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, storing the salad correctly can help maintain its freshness. Keep the vinaigrette separate from the assembled salad to prevent the mixed greens from wilting. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and consume within a couple of days for the best flavor and texture.

To refresh the salad when serving leftovers, consider adding a little more vinaigrette or even a handful of freshly chopped nuts or fruits to brighten it up. This way, every serving feels fresh and satisfying, even if it's from the next day.