Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad (Quick + Fresh)
Celebrate the flavors of fall with this Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad. Combining crisp Honeycrisp apples with creamy feta cheese, toasted pecans, and a zesty apple cider vinaigrette, this salad offers a delightful mix of sweet, tangy, and crunchy elements. It’s perfect as a refreshing side dish or a light main meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 6 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
- 1 large Honeycrisp apple, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/3 cup pecans, toasted (or walnuts)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds (optional)
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, thinly sliced Honeycrisp apple, red onion, and dried cranberries.
2. Sprinkle the crumbled feta, toasted pecans, and pumpkin seeds (if using) over the salad.
3. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Ensure that everything is evenly coated without making the salad soggy.
5. Top the salad with pomegranate seeds and fresh thyme leaves for an extra burst of flavor, if desired.
6. Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish or light main meal.
Notes
Cheese Alternatives: Substitute feta with goat cheese or blue cheese for different flavor profiles.
Nuts: Replace pecans with walnuts, almonds, or candied nuts for varied texture and taste.
Fruit: Add slices of pear or orange for additional fall flavors.
Greens: Use kale or romaine if you prefer a different green base.