Cranberry Walnut Salad Fresh and Flavorful Delight

June 1, 2025 by lisa

Looking for a salad that sings with freshness and flavor? The Cranberry Walnut Salad is your answer! This colorful mix of greens, tangy cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and crisp apples is both delightful and nutritious. Packed with health benefits, it’s perfect for any meal. Follow along as I guide you through the tasty journey of making this salad a standout on your plate!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 4 cups mixed salad greens (spinach, arugula, and romaine)

– 1 cup fresh cranberries (or ½ cup dried cranberries)

– 1 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped

– 1 medium apple, diced (preferably Fuji or Honeycrisp)

– ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled

– ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced

– ¾ cup balsamic vinaigrette

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Optional: 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

In this cranberry walnut salad, we use fresh and vibrant ingredients. The mixed salad greens form a crunchy base, giving each bite a refreshing crunch. Fresh cranberries add a tart flavor, while dried cranberries offer a sweeter touch. Walnuts bring a rich, nutty taste and a satisfying crunch.

I prefer using Fuji or Honeycrisp apples for their sweetness. The feta cheese adds creaminess, balancing the flavors. The red onion gives a bit of sharpness, enhancing the overall taste. The balsamic vinaigrette ties everything together, providing a tangy finish.

Nutritional Information

This salad is not just delicious, but also healthy. Each serving has around 200 calories. It includes about 10 grams of fat, mainly from walnuts. You also get around 25 grams of carbohydrates, with 5 grams of protein. This makes it a great side dish or light meal.

Health Benefits

Cranberries are rich in antioxidants. They can help with heart health and lower inflammation. Walnuts are also great for your heart. They contain healthy fats and can boost brain health. This salad packs a nutritional punch while tasting amazing. Enjoying it regularly helps keep your diet balanced.

For the complete recipe, check out the Cranberry Walnut Delight Salad.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Base

To prepare the mixed salad greens, start by washing them. Use cold water to rinse the greens well. After rinsing, dry them gently using a salad spinner or paper towels. This step makes sure the greens remain crisp. In a large salad bowl, add 4 cups of mixed salad greens, such as spinach, arugula, and romaine. This colorful mix sets a great base for the salad.

Adding the Fruits

Next, it’s time to add the fruits. If you’re using fresh cranberries, chop them roughly. If you prefer dried cranberries, you can leave them whole. This choice adds to the texture and sweetness. Dice one medium apple, preferably a sweet variety like Fuji or Honeycrisp. Once you’re ready, add the cranberries and diced apple to the bowl. This combination gives the salad a burst of flavor and color.

Incorporating Other Ingredients

Now, let’s incorporate the nuts and cheese for a richer taste. Sprinkle 1 cup of toasted walnuts over the salad. The crunch from the walnuts adds great texture. Next, crumble ½ cup of feta cheese over the top. This cheese brings a lovely salty flavor. Then, add ¼ cup of thinly sliced red onion for a bit of sharpness. Finally, drizzle ¾ cup of balsamic vinaigrette evenly over everything. If you like it sweeter, include 2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup. Gently toss the salad to mix all the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting sweetness if needed.

For the full recipe, check out the complete guide!

Tips & Tricks

Mixing and Tossing Techniques

To mix your salad without bruising the greens, use a gentle touch. Start by adding the lighter ingredients first. Place the greens at the bottom and layer the fruits on top. When you toss, use your hands to lift and turn the salad. This method keeps the leaves whole and fresh. Avoid using a spoon or fork to stir too hard. A soft touch makes a big difference.

Seasoning Recommendations

When seasoning your salad, taste as you go. Start with a pinch of salt and a dash of pepper. Mix well and taste again. If it needs more flavor, adjust slowly. You can add honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness. Just a bit can enhance the whole dish. Balance is key, so keep tasting until you find what you like best.

Presentation Suggestions

For a beautiful salad, choose clear bowls. This way, the bright colors shine through. Top your salad with extra walnuts and cranberries for a pop of color. You can also sprinkle some crumbled feta on top. This adds a nice touch and draws the eye. Arrange the layers neatly for a stunning effect. A well-presented salad is as tasty as it is pretty.

Explore the [Full Recipe] for making this delightful dish.

Variations

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

To modify the cranberry walnut salad for vegetarian or vegan diets, simply remove the feta cheese. You can replace it with vegan cheese or skip the cheese entirely. The salad will still taste great. For added protein, try adding chickpeas or beans. These options keep your salad filling and nutritious.

Substitutions & Additions

You can customize this salad with different nuts. Almonds or pecans work well in place of walnuts. If you want a crunchier texture, try adding sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. For cheese, goat cheese or a dairy-free cheese can replace feta. Adding sliced strawberries or pears can bring a fresh twist to the flavor.

Seasonal Variations

In spring, swap in fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries. In summer, add cucumbers for a refreshing crunch. In fall, consider using roasted butternut squash instead of apple. This change adds warmth to the salad. In winter, add citrus fruits like oranges or grapefruit for a zesty kick. Each season brings new flavors that keep this salad exciting and fresh. For the full recipe, check out the details above.

Storage Info

Best Practices for Refrigeration

To store leftover salad, place it in an airtight container. Make sure to seal it tightly. Keep the salad in the fridge. This keeps it fresh for later meals. Avoid adding dressing to the whole salad if you plan to store it. Instead, dress individual portions before eating. This helps maintain crisp greens and prevents sogginess.

Shelf Life

The salad stays fresh for about 2 to 3 days in the fridge. After that, the greens may wilt. The cranberries may also lose their tartness. If the salad looks or smells off, it’s best to toss it.

Freezing Guidelines

While this salad is not ideal for freezing, you can freeze the components. For example, freeze the walnuts in a separate bag. They keep well and can be added later. Avoid freezing the greens and dressing as they do not thaw well. If you want to prepare ahead, chop the apples and store them in lemon juice to keep them fresh.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can. To prepare this salad ahead, follow these tips:

– Prep the Greens: Wash and dry the mixed greens. Place them in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap.

– Store Separately: Keep the fruits, nuts, and cheese in separate containers. This helps keep everything fresh.

– Add Dressing Later: Wait to add the balsamic vinaigrette until just before serving. This keeps the greens crisp and not soggy.

What can I substitute for walnuts?

If you need a nut swap, try these options:

– Pecans: They add a sweet, buttery flavor.

– Almonds: Sliced or chopped for a nice crunch.

– Sunflower Seeds: Great for a nut-free option, adding protein and crunch.

How can I make the dressing from scratch?

Making your own balsamic vinaigrette is simple. Here’s a quick recipe:

– Ingredients:

– ¾ cup balsamic vinegar

– ¾ cup olive oil

– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Instructions:

1. Whisk together vinegar and mustard.

2. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking.

3. Season with salt and pepper. Adjust to taste.

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried cranberries. Here’s how it affects your salad:

– Flavor: Dried cranberries are sweeter and less tart than fresh ones.

– Texture: They add chewiness instead of the crisp pop of fresh cranberries.

What are the best apples to use?

For this salad, I recommend these sweet apple varieties:

– Fuji: Crisp and sweet, great for salads.

– Honeycrisp: Juicy and sweet with a nice crunch.

– Gala: Soft and sweet, easy to bite.

These apples will enhance the salad’s flavor perfectly. For the full recipe, check out the earlier section!

This blog post covered a tasty salad full of healthy ingredients. You learned how to prepare fresh greens, add fruits, and mix in nuts and cheese. Tips for seasoning and presentation can help make your salad stand out. Remember to explore variations for different diets and seasons.

In closing, enjoy experimenting with this recipe. A delicious salad can add joy and health to any meal.

$- 4 cups mixed salad greens (spinach, arugula, and romaine) - 1 cup fresh cranberries (or ½ cup dried cranberries) - 1 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped - 1 medium apple, diced (preferably Fuji or Honeycrisp) - ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled - ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced - ¾ cup balsamic vinaigrette - Salt and pepper to taste - Optional: 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup In this cranberry walnut salad, we use fresh and vibrant ingredients. The mixed salad greens form a crunchy base, giving each bite a refreshing crunch. Fresh cranberries add a tart flavor, while dried cranberries offer a sweeter touch. Walnuts bring a rich, nutty taste and a satisfying crunch. I prefer using Fuji or Honeycrisp apples for their sweetness. The feta cheese adds creaminess, balancing the flavors. The red onion gives a bit of sharpness, enhancing the overall taste. The balsamic vinaigrette ties everything together, providing a tangy finish. This salad is not just delicious, but also healthy. Each serving has around 200 calories. It includes about 10 grams of fat, mainly from walnuts. You also get around 25 grams of carbohydrates, with 5 grams of protein. This makes it a great side dish or light meal. Cranberries are rich in antioxidants. They can help with heart health and lower inflammation. Walnuts are also great for your heart. They contain healthy fats and can boost brain health. This salad packs a nutritional punch while tasting amazing. Enjoying it regularly helps keep your diet balanced. For the complete recipe, check out the Cranberry Walnut Delight Salad. To prepare the mixed salad greens, start by washing them. Use cold water to rinse the greens well. After rinsing, dry them gently using a salad spinner or paper towels. This step makes sure the greens remain crisp. In a large salad bowl, add 4 cups of mixed salad greens, such as spinach, arugula, and romaine. This colorful mix sets a great base for the salad. Next, it's time to add the fruits. If you're using fresh cranberries, chop them roughly. If you prefer dried cranberries, you can leave them whole. This choice adds to the texture and sweetness. Dice one medium apple, preferably a sweet variety like Fuji or Honeycrisp. Once you're ready, add the cranberries and diced apple to the bowl. This combination gives the salad a burst of flavor and color. Now, let's incorporate the nuts and cheese for a richer taste. Sprinkle 1 cup of toasted walnuts over the salad. The crunch from the walnuts adds great texture. Next, crumble ½ cup of feta cheese over the top. This cheese brings a lovely salty flavor. Then, add ¼ cup of thinly sliced red onion for a bit of sharpness. Finally, drizzle ¾ cup of balsamic vinaigrette evenly over everything. If you like it sweeter, include 2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup. Gently toss the salad to mix all the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting sweetness if needed. For the full recipe, check out the complete guide! To mix your salad without bruising the greens, use a gentle touch. Start by adding the lighter ingredients first. Place the greens at the bottom and layer the fruits on top. When you toss, use your hands to lift and turn the salad. This method keeps the leaves whole and fresh. Avoid using a spoon or fork to stir too hard. A soft touch makes a big difference. When seasoning your salad, taste as you go. Start with a pinch of salt and a dash of pepper. Mix well and taste again. If it needs more flavor, adjust slowly. You can add honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness. Just a bit can enhance the whole dish. Balance is key, so keep tasting until you find what you like best. For a beautiful salad, choose clear bowls. This way, the bright colors shine through. Top your salad with extra walnuts and cranberries for a pop of color. You can also sprinkle some crumbled feta on top. This adds a nice touch and draws the eye. Arrange the layers neatly for a stunning effect. A well-presented salad is as tasty as it is pretty. Explore the [Full Recipe] for making this delightful dish. {{image_2}} To modify the cranberry walnut salad for vegetarian or vegan diets, simply remove the feta cheese. You can replace it with vegan cheese or skip the cheese entirely. The salad will still taste great. For added protein, try adding chickpeas or beans. These options keep your salad filling and nutritious. You can customize this salad with different nuts. Almonds or pecans work well in place of walnuts. If you want a crunchier texture, try adding sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. For cheese, goat cheese or a dairy-free cheese can replace feta. Adding sliced strawberries or pears can bring a fresh twist to the flavor. In spring, swap in fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries. In summer, add cucumbers for a refreshing crunch. In fall, consider using roasted butternut squash instead of apple. This change adds warmth to the salad. In winter, add citrus fruits like oranges or grapefruit for a zesty kick. Each season brings new flavors that keep this salad exciting and fresh. For the full recipe, check out the details above. To store leftover salad, place it in an airtight container. Make sure to seal it tightly. Keep the salad in the fridge. This keeps it fresh for later meals. Avoid adding dressing to the whole salad if you plan to store it. Instead, dress individual portions before eating. This helps maintain crisp greens and prevents sogginess. The salad stays fresh for about 2 to 3 days in the fridge. After that, the greens may wilt. The cranberries may also lose their tartness. If the salad looks or smells off, it’s best to toss it. While this salad is not ideal for freezing, you can freeze the components. For example, freeze the walnuts in a separate bag. They keep well and can be added later. Avoid freezing the greens and dressing as they do not thaw well. If you want to prepare ahead, chop the apples and store them in lemon juice to keep them fresh. Yes, you can. To prepare this salad ahead, follow these tips: - Prep the Greens: Wash and dry the mixed greens. Place them in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap. - Store Separately: Keep the fruits, nuts, and cheese in separate containers. This helps keep everything fresh. - Add Dressing Later: Wait to add the balsamic vinaigrette until just before serving. This keeps the greens crisp and not soggy. If you need a nut swap, try these options: - Pecans: They add a sweet, buttery flavor. - Almonds: Sliced or chopped for a nice crunch. - Sunflower Seeds: Great for a nut-free option, adding protein and crunch. Making your own balsamic vinaigrette is simple. Here’s a quick recipe: - Ingredients: - ¾ cup balsamic vinegar - ¾ cup olive oil - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard - Salt and pepper to taste - Instructions: 1. Whisk together vinegar and mustard. 2. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking. 3. Season with salt and pepper. Adjust to taste. Yes, you can use dried cranberries. Here’s how it affects your salad: - Flavor: Dried cranberries are sweeter and less tart than fresh ones. - Texture: They add chewiness instead of the crisp pop of fresh cranberries. For this salad, I recommend these sweet apple varieties: - Fuji: Crisp and sweet, great for salads. - Honeycrisp: Juicy and sweet with a nice crunch. - Gala: Soft and sweet, easy to bite. These apples will enhance the salad's flavor perfectly. For the full recipe, check out the earlier section! This blog post covered a tasty salad full of healthy ingredients. You learned how to prepare fresh greens, add fruits, and mix in nuts and cheese. Tips for seasoning and presentation can help make your salad stand out. Remember to explore variations for different diets and seasons. In closing, enjoy experimenting with this recipe. A delicious salad can add joy and health to any meal.$