Looking for a refreshing dish that combines crunch, sweetness, and a burst of flavor? Look no further than our Crunchy Salad with Apple! This vibrant salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful treat for your taste buds. With its perfect blend of crisp mixed greens, juicy apple slices, and the satisfying crunch of walnuts, this salad is a must-try for anyone seeking a quick and healthy meal. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s the perfect side dish for any occasion or a light lunch that will leave you feeling energized. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to create a salad that’s both delicious and nutritious!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 1 apple, sliced
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons honey mustard dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the mixed greens thoroughly under cool running water and pat dry using a clean kitchen towel or salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
- Core the apple and slice it into thin, uniform half-moon or wedge shapes, ensuring each slice is approximately 1/8 inch thick.
- Place the clean, dried mixed greens in a large serving bowl, creating a fresh green base for the salad.
- Gently scatter the apple slices evenly across the mixed greens, distributing them for balanced flavor and visual appeal.
- Roughly chop the walnuts using a sharp knife, creating irregular pieces that will provide additional texture and crunch.
- Sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the salad, allowing them to rest on top of the apple slices and greens.
- Crumble the feta cheese by hand, creating small, irregular chunks that will add a creamy and tangy element to the salad.
- Distribute the feta cheese evenly across the salad, ensuring each serving will have a balanced amount of cheese.
- Drizzle the honey mustard dressing over the salad, using a light hand to prevent oversaturation.
- Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Gently toss the salad using two large spoons or salad servers, ensuring all ingredients are lightly coated with dressing and well-mixed.
- Serve immediately to maintain the crispness of the greens and the fresh texture of the ingredients.
Tips
- Choose the Right Apple: For the best flavor and crunch, opt for a crisp apple variety like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith. Their sweetness and tartness will elevate your salad.
- Wash Your Greens: Always wash your mixed greens thoroughly to remove any dirt or pesticides. A salad spinner can help dry them quickly, ensuring they stay crisp.
- Chop Evenly: When slicing your apple, aim for uniform pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the salad, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
- Toast the Walnuts: For an extra layer of flavor, consider toasting the walnuts in a dry skillet for a few minutes before adding them to the salad. This will bring out their natural oils and enhance their crunch.
- Customize Your Dressing: Feel free to experiment with different dressings! A balsamic vinaigrette or a simple olive oil and lemon juice mix can add a unique twist to your salad.
- Serve Fresh: To keep the salad crisp, serve it immediately after tossing with dressing. If you need to prepare it in advance, keep the dressing separate until just before serving.
- Add More Ingredients: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Adding ingredients like grilled chicken, dried cranberries, or avocado can make this salad a more substantial meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
