Name: Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 whole red apple (quartered, seeds removed, finely sliced); 1 squeeze lemon juice (to stop apple browning); 120 g mixed salad leaves (4 to 5 big handfuls); 1/2 whole red onion (finely sliced (wedges)); 3/4 cup dried cranberries; 2 tbsp feta or goat cheese (crumbled (optional garnish)); 1 tbsp butter (salted); 1/4 cup white sugar; 1 cup walnuts or pecans; 2 tbsp cider vinegar; 4 tbsp olive oil; 1.5 tsp Dijon mustard; 1.5 tsp white sugar; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp pepper

Introduction to Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries

Making your own salads can be a transformative experience, especially for young professionals navigating the busy world of work. Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries not only tantalizes your taste buds but also provides a nutritious and quick meal option. When you create your own salads, you gain control over the ingredients, ensuring you’re eating fresh, wholesome foods packed with flavor. Plus, whipping up a salad can be a delightful break from your routine, allowing you to express creativity in the kitchen.

Eating fresh produce and nuts is also linked to numerous health benefits, including improved heart health and increased energy levels. Studies show that integrating salads into your diet can help maintain a balanced lifestyle, crucial for those with demanding schedules. This salad, combining crunchy apples, sweet cranberries, and nutty candied walnuts, offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors that intrigues the palate.

As you delve into the recipe, you'll discover how simple it is to create a gourmet salad at home. So, are you ready to elevate your lunch game? Let’s dive into the ingredients and make this refreshing Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries a staple in your meal prep!

Ingredients for Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries

Essential ingredients for the salad

To create a vibrant and delicious Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries, you’ll need a few essential ingredients. Start with:

1 red apple, quartered, seeds removed, and finely sliced
A squeeze of lemon juice to prevent browning
120 g (about 4 oz) of mixed salad leaves (around 4 to 5 big handfuls)
½ red onion, finely sliced
¾ cup dried cranberries
Optional: 2 tablespoon of feta or goat cheese, crumbled for a delightful garnish

Key ingredients for candied walnuts

The sweet crunch of candied walnuts truly elevates this salad. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 tablespoon of salted butter
¼ cup white sugar
1 cup of walnuts or pecans (feel free to substitute with your preferred nuts)

Dressing ingredients for the ultimate flavor boost

Finally, the dressing ties all these flavors together. Gather:

2 tablespoon cider vinegar
4 tablespoon olive oil
1.5 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1.5 teaspoon white sugar
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper

This combination will provide the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors. Enjoy making your Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries! For more tips on salad dressing variations, check out this resource.

Step-by-step Preparation of Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries

Creating a delightful Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries is easier than you might think! This vibrant dish combines sweet and crunchy flavors, making it an ideal choice for lunch, dinner, or even a holiday gathering. Let’s dive into each step of the preparation.

Prepare your ingredients

Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients and tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 red apple (quartered and finely sliced)
Fresh lemon juice (to prevent apple browning)
120g mixed salad leaves
½ red onion (finely sliced)
¾ cup dried cranberries
2 tablespoon feta or goat cheese (optional garnish)

For the candied walnuts:

1 tablespoon salted butter
¼ cup white sugar
1 cup walnuts or pecans

For the dressing:

2 tablespoon cider vinegar
4 tablespoon olive oil
1.5 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1.5 teaspoon white sugar
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper

Make the candied walnuts

Get your taste buds ready! Start by melting the butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add sugar and give it a quick stir. Let it bubble just until the sugar is mostly melted, then toss in the nuts. Stir everything for about two minutes. Finally, spread the nuts on a parchment-lined tray and let them cool. You can finely chop half of them for added texture, while leaving the rest whole for visual appeal.

Plump the cranberries

To enhance those cranberries, place them in a bowl and pour boiling water over them. Let them soak for about 10 minutes, then drain. This little trick helps soften the dried fruit, making it a juicy addition to your salad.

Prepare the apples

Keep those apple slices from browning! Just drizzle them with fresh lemon juice and give them a gentle toss. This way, they’ll stay fresh and vibrant in your salad.

Whisk together the dressing

Now, let's make the dressing! In a jar, combine the cider vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper. Secure the lid and shake it like you mean it! You can adjust the flavors as you go; adding more oil for creaminess or vinegar for tartness can really elevate your salad.

Assemble the salad

It’s almost time to enjoy your Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries! Begin by placing the mixed salad leaves in a large bowl. Add half of the apple slices and all the sliced red onion, then drizzle with half of the dressing. Toss gently to mix everything. Finally, scatter the cranberries, desired amount of walnuts, the remaining apple slices, and a sprinkle of feta or goat cheese (if using) on top. Drizzle with the leftover dressing, and serve immediately for a fresh and vibrant meal!

By following these steps, you’ll have a delicious salad that’s not only nourishing but also visually impressive. It’s a wonderful way to incorporate fresh flavors into your diet!

Variations on Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries

Add-ins to Consider for Extra Crunch

Want to elevate your Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries? Think beyond nuts! Consider adding:

Chopped Celery for a fresh crunch.
Crispy Chickpeas to boost protein and fiber.
Kale or Radicchio for added texture and color.
Sunflower Seeds or Pepitas for nut-free options that are just as crunchy.

Each of these ingredients adds a delightful crunch that enhances the salad’s overall experience.

Seasonal Variations to Keep It Fresh

Change up your Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries each season! In spring, add fresh strawberries or sugar snap peas. Summer might call for peaches or blueberries. As fall settles in, consider pomegranate seeds or roasted butternut squash for a warm touch. And in winter, why not introduce spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy twist?

Switching ingredients keeps the salad interesting and tailored to seasonal produce, ensuring every bite is a burst of freshness!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries

Suggestions for Ingredient Substitutions

If you want to customize your Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries, consider these swaps:

Use different types of apples like Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness.
Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds, or if you're looking for a nut-free option, try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for that crunchy texture.
For cheese, feta or goat cheese can be replaced with blue cheese or omitted entirely for a vegan version.

How to Store Leftover Salad and Candied Nuts

To keep your salad fresh, store it without the dressing, as this can make the leaves soggy. Place leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy it within 1–2 days. The candied walnuts can be stored separately in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Want to keep them longer? Consider freezing—cooked nuts can last for months!

Embrace these tips, and enjoy your culinary journey! For further inspiration, check out resources from Bon Appétit or Food Network.

Serving Suggestions for Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries

Ideal Pairings for This Salad

This Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries is incredibly versatile! It's perfect as a light lunch or can be served alongside protein-rich dishes. Think grilled chicken, turkey bacon, or even a plate of chicken ham. For a vegetarian twist, pair it with quinoa patties or stuffed bell peppers. Complete the meal with a refreshing, non-alcoholic drink, like sparkling water infused with citrus.

Creative Serving Ideas for Gatherings

Planning a gathering? This salad is a fantastic centerpiece! Serve it in a large bowl for a family-style feast or in individual mason jars for a trendy touch. For casual get-togethers, consider using a taco bar setup where guests can build their own salads with this delicious combo. Don’t forget to sprinkle extra candied walnuts and cranberries on top—it's all about that eye-catching presentation!

For more serving ideas, check out this article on fun ways to elevate your salads.

Time Breakdown for Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries

Preparation time
The prep time for this delightful Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries is around 15 minutes. This includes washing and slicing your apples and onions, soaking the cranberries, and making the candied walnuts.

Cooking time
You’ll spend about 10 minutes in the kitchen cooking up those sweet, crunchy candied walnuts. It’s a simple process that really elevates your salad!

Total time
In total, you’ll need approximately 25 minutes to whip up this delicious salad. Perfect for a quick but impressive dish at your next gathering! Enjoy the fresh flavors that come together beautifully in a remarkably short time.

For additional tips on salad variations, feel free to check out resources from renowned cooking sites like Bon Appétit or Serious Eats. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Facts for Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries

Calories per serving

This delightful Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries packs a satisfying 364 calories per serving, making it a wholesome addition to your meals without feeling overly guilty. With a blend of fresh ingredients, it balances indulgence and nutrition beautifully.

Key nutrients breakdown

Here’s a closer look at what’s inside:

Fat: 26g (40% Daily Value), primarily from the delicious candied walnuts.
Carbohydrates: 32g (11% Daily Value), giving you energy for your day.
Fiber: 3g (13% Daily Value), promoting good digestion and fullness.
Protein: 4g (8% Daily Value), from the walnuts and optional cheese.
Vitamins:
Vitamin A: 895 IU (18% Daily Value)
Vitamin C: 3.6mg (4% Daily Value)

This salad not only tastes great but also offers a wealth of nutrients. For more information on the health benefits of apples and walnuts, visit Healthline or check out Nutrition Data for deeper insights. Your taste buds and body will thank you!

FAQs about Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries

Can I use different nuts for the salad?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for candied walnuts, you can easily swap them with pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts to suit your taste. Each nut brings a unique flavor and texture, adding an exciting twist to your apple salad. If you’re looking for a nut-free option, consider using sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch.

How can I make this salad vegan-friendly?
Making the Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries vegan is simple! Just substitute the butter in the candied walnuts with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. You can also skip the feta or goat cheese, or opt for a plant-based cheese substitute to keep it creamy without the dairy.

What’s the best way to prevent the apples from browning?
Preventing apples from browning is easy! A quick drizzle of lemon juice not only adds flavor but also keeps the slices looking fresh and vibrant. You can also soak them briefly in a mixture of water and lemon juice before adding them to the salad.

Conclusion on Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries

In summary, this Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries is a deliciously vibrant dish that perfectly balances flavors and textures. From the crunch of candied walnuts to the tart sweetness of cranberries, it’s sure to impress your family and friends during any gathering. Enjoy!