Honeycrisp harvest salad 🥗

Name: Honeycrisp harvest salad 🥗
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups mixed greens; 2 Honeycrisp apples, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup dried cranberries; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Delight in the fresh and vibrant flavors of this Honeycrisp harvest salad, featuring the perfect balance of sweet and savory ingredients.

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2025-12-11T12:42:43.084Z

This Honeycrisp harvest salad is a celebration of seasonal flavors, combining crisp apples, crunchy nuts, and a tangy dressing that elevates your salad game.

        Why You Will Love This Salad
        Crisp and juicy Honeycrisp apples add a natural sweetness.
Packed with nutrients from fresh greens and colorful vegetables.
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion.

      

A Perfect Balance of Flavors

This Honeycrisp harvest salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful symphony of flavors. The crispness of Honeycrisp apples brings a refreshing sweetness that perfectly complements the savory notes of feta cheese and the earthy crunch of walnuts. Each bite offers a delightful contrast, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a well-rounded salad experience.

In addition to its flavors, this salad boasts a vibrant array of colors. The bright greens of mixed salad leaves, the vivid red of dried cranberries, and the golden hue of the walnuts create an inviting presentation. This visual appeal makes it a perfect centerpiece for gatherings, encouraging even the pickiest eaters to dive in.

Nutritional Benefits

Packed with nutrients, this Honeycrisp harvest salad is a powerhouse of health benefits. Mixed greens are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, which support immune function and promote healthy skin. Honeycrisp apples add fiber to the mix, aiding digestion and keeping you feeling full longer. The addition of walnuts provides healthy fats and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health.

Feta cheese contributes a good source of calcium and protein, making this salad not only delicious but also a satisfying meal option. The dried cranberries add a touch of antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress in the body. Together, these ingredients make this salad a nutritious choice for anyone looking to enhance their diet with wholesome foods.

Versatile and Quick to Prepare

One of the best aspects of this Honeycrisp harvest salad is its versatility. It can be served as a refreshing side dish at barbecues, a light lunch option, or even as a main course by adding grilled chicken or quinoa. This adaptability makes it suitable for various occasions, from casual family meals to elegant dinner parties.

Preparation is a breeze, ensuring you can whip this salad up in no time. With just a few simple steps, you can have a nutritious and delicious dish ready to serve. This ease of preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings, allowing you to enjoy a healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

4 cups mixed greens
2 Honeycrisp apples, thinly sliced
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup dried cranberries

Dressing Ingredients

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix and match your favorite nuts and fruits to customize this salad to your liking!

Instructions

Prepare the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced Honeycrisp apples, walnuts, feta cheese, and dried cranberries.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine and Serve

Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently to combine.

Enjoy your refreshing Honeycrisp harvest salad as a light meal or a side dish!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Honeycrisp harvest salad, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for a protein boost. This addition transforms the salad into a more substantial meal while maintaining its fresh and vibrant character. Pair it with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread to round out the dining experience.

If you're hosting a gathering, this salad is a great complement to roasted meats or fish. Its refreshing flavors can balance out richer dishes, making it an excellent choice for potlucks or festive occasions. Consider serving it alongside a light white wine to enhance the overall meal experience.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store the salad components separately to maintain freshness. Keep the dressing in a sealed jar in the refrigerator and the salad ingredients in an airtight container. This way, you can enjoy the salad for up to 2 days without compromising its texture or flavor.

When ready to serve again, simply toss the salad with the dressing right before eating. This not only ensures maximum crispness but also allows for the flavors to blend beautifully once more. Ideal for meal prep, this salad can be made in advance and enjoyed throughout the week.

Customization Ideas

Feel free to customize your Honeycrisp harvest salad according to your taste preferences. Swap out the walnuts for pecans or almonds for a different nutty flavor. You can also experiment with the type of cheese, using goat cheese for a creamier texture or even vegan cheese alternatives for a dairy-free option.

Incorporating seasonal vegetables like roasted sweet potatoes or beets can add another layer of flavor and nutrition. Adding fresh herbs like mint or basil can also enhance the flavor profile, providing a unique twist to this classic salad. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this dish your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance but add the dressing just before serving to keep the greens fresh.

→ What can I substitute for Honeycrisp apples?

You can use any crisp and sweet apple variety, such as Fuji or Gala.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are gluten-free. Just be sure to check the labels of any packaged items.

→ How can I make this salad vegan?

Omit the feta cheese and use maple syrup instead of honey for the dressing.