If you’re looking for the perfect medley of crisp, sweet, and tangy, you’ve found it in this Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad. Vibrant with color and bursting with layers of flavor and texture, this salad is a celebration of contrasts: juicy apples, creamy feta, crunchy candied nuts, and a lively honey-Dijon vinaigrette. Whether you’re hosting brunch, craving a lunch upgrade, or searching for an effortless dinner side, this salad is your new go-to. Let’s fall in love with fresh flavors all over again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the things I love most is how these simple, fresh ingredients work together to make every bite irresistible. Each one brings its own flavor, texture, or bit of color, so make sure to gather the best you can find—your tastebuds will thank you!
- Honeycrisp apples: Their signature juicy crunch and sweet-tart flavor are the star of this salad, so choose ripe, crisp apples for maximum refreshment.
- Baby arugula or mixed greens: These leafy greens add a fresh, peppery base, providing balance and vibrant color.
- Crumbled feta cheese: Salty and creamy, feta brings a tangy richness that highlights the sweet apples beautifully.
- Candied pecans or walnuts: These crunchy bites add a touch of sweetness and an irresistible nutty flavor; buy them or make your own for extra flair.
- Red onion: Sliced thin, red onion gives just the right amount of pungent bite and color contrast.
- Dried cranberries: For chewy sweetness and a pop of ruby-red color, dried cranberries are a must.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Rich and smooth, it forms the base of a luscious dressing.
- Apple cider vinegar: Adds zing with a touch of fruity tartness, perfectly complementing the apples.
- Honey: Natural sweetness to round out the acidity in the dressing.
- Dijon mustard: Provides a subtle tang and creamy texture, binding the vinaigrette beautifully.
- Salt and black pepper: Season to taste for the perfect savory finish that ties everything together.
How to Make Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad
Step 1: Whisk Together the Dressing
Start by grabbing a small bowl and your whisk (or a fork if that’s what’s handy). Whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, a pinch of salt, and some freshly cracked black pepper. The mixture should look smooth and slightly creamy. If you want your dressing super emulsified, a quick shake in a mason jar with the lid on works wonders! Set aside so the flavors can mingle.
Step 2: Build the Salad Base
In your largest salad bowl, pile in the baby arugula or your favorite mixed greens. These leafy greens will act as the fresh, peppery canvas for all your toppings. You can also toss in a few extra greens if you like a fuller bowl or want to stretch this salad for another serving.
Step 3: Add the Star Ingredients
It’s time for the best part! Layer on your thinly sliced Honeycrisp apples, making sure to fan them out for a pretty visual effect. Sprinkle over the crumbled feta cheese, candied pecans or walnuts, red onion slices, and dried cranberries. Every ingredient brings its personality to the bowl, creating a stunning contrast in both appearance and flavor.
Step 4: Dress and Toss
Just before serving, give your dressing another quick whisk. Drizzle it generously over the salad. Using clean hands or salad tongs, gently toss everything together. You want each leaf and apple slice to get a light coating—just enough for every bite to shine but not so much that it weighs the salad down.
Step 5: Serve Right Away
The final flourish! Arrange the Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad on a serving platter or in individual bowls. Serve immediately while those apples are still crisp and the greens are perky. Get ready for lots of “oohs” and “aahs” around your table.
How to Serve Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad
Garnishes
Take your Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad to the next level with a handful of extra candied nuts, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, or even a light grating of lemon zest for a touch of brightness. For a festive table, try scattering a few edible flower petals for a truly stunning finish that will make everyone pause before digging in.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs like a dream with grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or even a simple vegetable soup. If you’re planning a heartier meal, some crusty sourdough bread with a swipe of good butter adds the perfect rustic touch. Don’t be afraid to plate it alongside grain salads or quinoa bowls—the flavors play beautifully together.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party spread, build mini versions in mason jars or serve the Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad in delicate endive leaves for easy bite-sized appetizers. You can also compose this salad on a long platter with the apples and toppings arranged in stripes or circles—it’s an edible work of art! The salad’s vibrant colors and textures look especially appealing on dark or wooden platters to make those greens and apples pop.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day. For the best results, keep the dressing separate and toss everything together just before eating, so the greens stay crisp and the apples don’t brown as quickly.
Freezing
This is a salad best enjoyed fresh, and freezing is not recommended. The apples and greens don’t hold up well to the cold, turning soggy and watery once thawed. If you have extra candied nuts or feta, those can be frozen separately for future use.
Reheating
No reheating necessary—this dish is meant to be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you’d like to serve it alongside a hot meal, just bring the salad out of the fridge about 15 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture.
FAQs
What if Honeycrisp apples aren’t available?
No worries! While Honeycrisp apples bring unmatched crunch and sweetness, feel free to swap in Gala, Fuji, or Pink Lady apples if Honeycrisps are out of season or unavailable in your area. Just aim for apples that are equally crisp and sweet-tart.
Can I make the Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad vegan?
Absolutely! To make this salad vegan, replace the feta with a plant-based cheese or simply omit it. For the dressing, swap the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. You’ll still enjoy all that fabulous fresh flavor.
How do I keep the apples from browning?
Slice your apples right before serving for the freshest look and taste. If you want to prep ahead, give the slices a quick toss in a little lemon juice—this helps keep them crisp and brightly colored so your Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad stays photo-ready.
Can I add protein for a complete meal?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, seared salmon, or roasted chickpeas all work marvelously as proteins. Just arrange your choice right on top of the salad for a filling, restaurant-worthy meal that still feels light and refreshing.
What’s the best way to transport this salad for a picnic or potluck?
If you’re taking the Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad on the go, pack the dressing separately and slice the apples just before serving, if possible. Keep all components chilled in sealed containers, and toss everything together on-site for the freshest taste and best crunch.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to dig your fork into this Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad! It’s a burst of color, flavor, and pure joy on your plate. Whether for a casual lunch or a special celebration, this salad is sure to win over everyone at your table—so give it a try and let your tastebuds dance!
Print
Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad is a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for a light and refreshing meal. Crisp Honeycrisp apples, tangy feta cheese, and crunchy nuts are tossed with a homemade honey Dijon vinaigrette, creating a salad that’s both delicious and satisfying.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients:
- 2 large Honeycrisp apples, thinly sliced
- 5 oz baby arugula or mixed greens
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/3 cup candied pecans or walnuts
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
Dressing Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create the dressing. Set aside.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine arugula or mixed greens, sliced Honeycrisp apples, feta cheese, candied nuts, red onion, and dried cranberries.
- Toss and Serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving and gently toss to coat. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For extra crunch, add thinly sliced celery.
- Swap feta with goat cheese for a creamier flavor.
- This salad pairs well with grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad portion
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
