This Holiday Honeycrisp Salad is the ultimate festive side dish! Sweet Honeycrisp apples, crunchy candied pecans, tart cranberries, and creamy cheese come together on a bed of mixed greens, all drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette. Quick, easy, and bursting with color and flavor, it’s perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
- 2 Honeycrisp apples, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup candied pecans (or toasted walnuts)
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
This vibrant salad is a delightful combination of sweet, tart, and creamy flavors that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Set aside.
2️⃣ Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl or platter, arrange the mixed greens.
Top with sliced Honeycrisp apples, dried cranberries, candied pecans, crumbled cheese, and red onion slices.
3️⃣ Dress and Serve:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly, or serve the dressing on the side for guests to add as desired.
Nutrition (per serving, approx.):
- Calories: 200
- Protein: 3g
- Carbs: 18g
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 140mg
Tips & Variations
- Make it Ahead: Prep all the components separately and assemble just before serving to keep the greens crisp.
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or quinoa for a more substantial dish.
- Nut-Free Option: Substitute candied pecans with roasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
- Apple Substitutes: Use Fuji, Gala, or Pink Lady apples for a similar crisp texture and sweet-tart flavor.
- Vegan Adaptation: Use maple syrup instead of honey and skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
- Storage: Store undressed salad in the fridge for up to 2 days. The dressing can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
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