Name: Vibrant Apple-Cranberry Salad with Maple Dijon Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 6 cups Mixed Baby Greens (Swap with arugula or spinach for variety.); 2 medium Honeycrisp Apples (Feel free to use any apple variety you love.); 1/2 cup Dried Cranberries (Raisins work well as a substitute.); 1/2 cup Raw Pecans (Use pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version.); 1/2 cup Gorgonzola (Opt for dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free option.); 1/4 cup Olive Oil (Rich base of the dressing.); 2 tablespoons Maple Syrup (Offers natural sweetness.); 2 tablespoons White Wine Vinegar (Can substitute with Apple Cider Vinegar.); 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard (Choose a mild one if preferred.); 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Enhances overall flavor.); Salt (Adjust to taste.); Pepper (Adjust to taste.)

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As the crisp autumn air settles in, my kitchen transforms into a haven of earthy scents and vibrant colors. One of my favorite ways to celebrate the season is with this Easy Apple Cranberry Salad, bursting with the freshness of honeycrisp apples, mixed greens, and a scrumptious maple dijon dressing. Not only is it a quick prep that can be ready in just 20 minutes, but it’s also a healthy crowd-pleaser that brightens up any holiday gathering. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch or a stunning side dish for roast meats, this salad offers a delightful crunch and a pop of sweetness that will have everyone reaching for more. Curious about how to mix it up? Let’s dive in!

Why is this Apple-Cranberry Salad special?

Vibrant, this salad delights with its colorful mix of fresh ingredients that tantalize your taste buds. Quick to prepare, you can whip it up in just 20 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. Healthy and satisfying, this Apple-Cranberry Salad is gluten-free and vegetarian, ensuring everyone can enjoy it. Versatile, feel free to customize it with grilled chicken or a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds. Plus, the homemade maple dijon dressing ties everything together, offering a sweet and tangy kick that impresses at holiday gatherings or as a light lunch.

Apple-Cranberry Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Mixed Baby Greens – A fresh base for the salad; swap with arugula or spinach for variety.
• Honeycrisp Apples – Adds sweetness and crunch; feel free to use any apple variety you love.
• Dried Cranberries – Introduces a tart and chewy element; raisins work well as a substitute.
• Raw Pecans (or Walnuts) – Provides a delightful crunch and healthy fats; use pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version.
• Gorgonzola (or Feta/Goat Cheese) – Adds creaminess and tang; opt for dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free option.

For the Maple Dijon Dressing
• Olive Oil – The rich base of the dressing that brings everything together.
• Maple Syrup – Offers natural sweetness that complements the salad beautifully.
• White Wine Vinegar (or Apple Cider Vinegar) – Balances flavors with its acidity; each option has unique notes.
• Dijon Mustard – Delivers depth and flavor; choose a mild one if preferred.
• Garlic Powder – Enhances the overall flavor profile of the dressing.
• Salt + Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste for the perfect blend.

Enjoy crafting this Apple-Cranberry Salad recipe that brings a taste of autumn right to your table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple-Cranberry Salad

Step 1: Make the Dressing
In a jar, combine 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Seal the jar tightly and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until the dressing is well-blended and emulsified. This Maple Dijon dressing will serve as a perfect complement to your vibrant Apple-Cranberry Salad.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Ingredients
While the dressing is mingling, wash and dry 6 cups of mixed baby greens. Core and thinly slice 2 Honeycrisp apples, ensuring they maintain their crispness. Measure out 1/2 cup of dried cranberries, and chop 1/2 cup of raw pecans. Lastly, crumble 1/2 cup of gorgonzola cheese for that creamy tang. Arrange all these colorful ingredients on your countertop, ready to come together.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large salad bowl, first place the mixed greens as the foundation. Next, add the sliced apples, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and crumbled gorgonzola. Gently toss the ingredients together with your hands or tongs until well-combined, ensuring the salad is both visually appealing and ready for dressing. Your Apple-Cranberry Salad is beginning to take shape!

Step 4: Dress the Salad
Give the jar of dressing one last vigorous shake to recombine any settled ingredients. Drizzle the Maple Dijon dressing over the assembled salad. Using tongs or a large spoon, carefully toss the salad again, ensuring every bite is coated in that sweet and tangy dressing. Aim for an even distribution, as this is what elevates your Apple-Cranberry Salad.

Step 5: Serve and Adjust Seasoning
Before serving, taste your beautiful Apple-Cranberry Salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding a little more salt or pepper to your liking. Serve the salad immediately on chilled plates or in bowls to keep everything fresh and crisp. Remember, it’s best enjoyed right away, highlighting the delightful crunch and vibrant flavors of autumn.

How to Store and Freeze Apple-Cranberry Salad

Fridge: Store leftover Apple-Cranberry Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to maintain crispness.

Dressing Storage: The Maple Dijon dressing can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 1 week in a sealed jar. Shake well before use.

Prepping Ahead: For a make-ahead option, prepare all salad components but keep them separate until ready to serve. This prevents sogginess and ensures freshness.

Freezer: We recommend against freezing the assembled salad, as the textures of the greens and apples may become mushy. Only freeze the dressing if necessary.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Apple Cranberry Salad components are perfect for meal prep, saving you time during busy weekdays! You can make the Maple Dijon dressing up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator; just shake well before using. Additionally, wash and dry the mixed greens and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Slice the apples (remember, they can brown quickly, so do this just before serving) and store them in a little lemon water to keep them crisp. When you’re ready to enjoy your Apple Cranberry Salad, simply toss the prepped ingredients together, drizzle with the dressing, and enjoy a quick, delicious meal that’s just as delightful as if you made it fresh!

Expert Tips for Apple-Cranberry Salad

Dressing Prepping: Prepare the Maple Dijon dressing ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week—this saves time on busy days!
Apple Freshness: Slice your Honeycrisp apples just before serving to prevent browning and keep them crisp in your Apple-Cranberry Salad.
Toss Gently: Mix the salad ingredients gently to avoid bruising the greens and to ensure a perfect balance of flavors.
Serving Temperature: Serve your salad on chilled plates for an extra refreshing bite, especially during warmer gatherings or celebrations.
Texture Alert: Enjoy your Apple-Cranberry Salad fresh for the best crunchy texture; leftovers can become soggy.

Apple-Cranberry Salad Variations

Feel free to get creative with this salad, as there are endless possibilities to enhance its flavors and textures!

Nut-Free: Replace the pecans with sunflower seeds for a satisfying crunch without the nuts. This keeps every bite enjoyable for those with allergies.
Cheese Swap: If you’re not a fan of gorgonzola, try feta or goat cheese for a creamy twist that still adds a unique flavor profile.
Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas for a protein boost, making the salad more filling and suitable as a main dish.
Add Grains: Stir in cooked quinoa or farro for a hearty addition that provides extra texture and nutrients. This transforms the salad into an even more satisfying meal.
Vinegar Variation: Switch the white wine vinegar for balsamic vinegar to add a deeper sweetness and richness in flavor. This small change can brighten up the entire dish!
Heat Factor: Add thinly sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the apples.
Fruit Twist: Incorporate sliced strawberries or pear slices in place of some apples for a refreshing change. These options can lend their unique flavors while keeping the fruity essence intact.

For more vibrant salad ideas, check out this Chickpea Salad Grilled or a delightful Waldorf Salad Greek that offers a unique take on classic ingredients!

What to Serve with Easy Apple Cranberry Salad?

Creating a memorable meal is all about finding the perfect pairings that enhance each delightful bite.

Roasted Chicken: Juicy, savory chicken paired with the fresh salad creates a comforting balance of flavors. The richness complements the tartness of the cranberries well.
Grilled Salmon: This flaky fish offers a subtle smokiness that works beautifully with the sweet and tangy notes of the apple-cranberry salad. The textures play off each other delightfully!
Crispy Breadsticks: Light, crunchy breadsticks provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the creamy gorgonzola, making every bite an experience to remember.
Potato Brussels Sprout Bake: A warm, hearty bake serves as a lovely counterpoint to the fresh salad, wrapping the meal in cozy comfort while keeping it wholesome.
Winter Squash Soup: Rich and velvety, a warming soup enhances the autumn flavors, creating a harmonious seasonal feast that wraps you in a warm hug.
Sparkling Water with Lime: A refreshing drink that cleanses the palate and adds a splash of zest, which contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the dressing.
Cranberry Almond Biscotti: For a sweet finish, these crunchy cookies echo the salad’s flavors with a delightful chew, making them perfect for dipping in a warm cup of tea.
Charcuterie Board: An assortment of cheeses, nuts, and dried fruits that offers variety and complements the fresh ingredients in the salad, making for an interactive dining experience.
Maple Pecan Pie: This luscious dessert echoes the maple flavors in the dressing, rounding out the meal with warmth and sweetness everyone will adore.

Apple-Cranberry Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best apples for this salad?
Absolutely! For this Apple-Cranberry Salad, I recommend using Honeycrisp apples because of their perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. Look for apples that are firm and free of bruises. If you prefer other varieties, Fuji or Gala apples are great alternatives that will also add a delightful flavor.

How should I store leftover salad?
Leftover Apple-Cranberry Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the crispness of the ingredients, it’s best to keep the dressing separate and only combine them right before serving. This way, you can enjoy the fresh textures as intended!

Can I freeze the Maple Dijon dressing?
Yes! You can freeze the Maple Dijon dressing if you need to store it longer. Pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. To use, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before giving it a good shake to recombine.

What can I do if the salad becomes soggy?
To prevent sogginess, make sure to store the dressing separately from the salad components. If you find yourself with a soggy salad, here’s a clever fix: Drain any excess moisture and toss in a handful of fresh greens or nuts to revitalize the texture. You could also add a bit more dressing to reinvigorate the flavors!

Is this salad pet-friendly?
While the Apple-Cranberry Salad is safe for human consumption, it’s vital to remember that certain ingredients, like gorgonzola cheese and nuts, can be harmful to pets. If you want to share a taste with your furry friends, offer them plain apple slices instead, ensuring to remove any seeds first!

How can I make this salad dairy-free?
The Apple-Cranberry Salad can easily be made dairy-free! Just substitute the gorgonzola cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative, such as almond or coconut-based cheese. This way, you can enjoy all the delicious flavors while accommodating dietary preferences.