Mediterranean Apple Walnut Salad with Maple Dijon Vinaigrette
Mediterranean Apple Walnut Salad with Maple Dijon Vinaigrette is a fresh, vibrant dish that brings together crisp apples, toasted walnuts, leafy greens, and a lightly sweet, tangy dressing. It is the kind of salad that feels both comforting and refreshing, making it perfect for everyday meals as well as holiday tables. The balance of sweet, sharp, and nutty flavors reflects Mediterranean simplicity while the maple Dijon vinaigrette adds a modern twist. Served as a starter or a light main, this salad delivers texture, color, and flavor in every bite without feeling heavy.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes (toasting walnuts)
Total Time: About 25 minutes
Serves: 4–6
Ingredients
For the Salad
6 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, romaine, or spinach)
2 crisp apples, thinly sliced
¾ cup walnuts, lightly toasted
¼ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
2 tablespoons dried cranberries or raisins
For the Maple Dijon Vinaigrette
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1½ tablespoons apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Wash and dry the salad greens thoroughly and place them in a large bowl.
Core and thinly slice the apples, leaving the peel on for color and texture.
Toast walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant, then cool.
Add apples, walnuts, red onion, and dried fruit to the greens.
In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup.
Whisk or shake the dressing until smooth and emulsified.
Season the vinaigrette with salt and black pepper to taste.
Drizzle dressing over the salad just before serving.
Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
Sprinkle feta or goat cheese on top and serve immediately.
Tips
Choose crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith.
Toss apple slices with a little lemon juice to prevent browning.
Toasting walnuts enhances flavor and crunch.
Dry greens well to help dressing cling.
Add dressing gradually to avoid overdressing.
Use high-quality olive oil for best flavor.
Slice onions very thin to keep them mild.
Serve immediately for maximum freshness.
Chill the bowl slightly for extra crispness.
Taste and adjust dressing balance before serving.
Variations
Add sliced pears instead of apples.
Use pecans or almonds in place of walnuts.
Add grilled chicken for a complete meal.
Use blue cheese for a stronger flavor.
Add roasted sweet potatoes for warmth.
Include cucumber or celery for extra crunch.
Replace maple syrup with honey.
Add fresh herbs like parsley or mint.
Use balsamic vinegar for deeper sweetness.
Add quinoa for a hearty salad bowl.
Q&A
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Prepare ingredients ahead, but dress just before serving.
How long does the dressing keep?
Up to one week refrigerated in a sealed jar.
Can I make it vegan?
Yes, simply omit the cheese.
What apples work best?
Sweet-tart apples hold their texture well.
Is this salad sweet?
It is lightly sweet and well balanced.
Can I use bagged greens?
Yes, as long as they are fresh.
How do I reduce calories?
Use less cheese and dressing.
Can kids enjoy this?
Yes, it’s mild and approachable.
What pairs well with it?
Grilled fish, chicken, or soup.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, naturally gluten-free.
Nutrition
(Approximate per serving)
Calories: 260
Protein: 6g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 4g
Vitamin C: 20% DV
Conclusion
Mediterranean Apple Walnut Salad with Maple Dijon Vinaigrette is a simple yet elegant dish that proves salads can be both satisfying and exciting. With crisp fruit, crunchy nuts, creamy cheese, and a balanced dressing, it works beautifully as a side or light main. Easy to customize and quick to prepare, this salad brings fresh Mediterranean-inspired flavor to the table any time of year.