September 27, 2024

Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries

Healthy Fact of the Day

This Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries offers a variety of nutritional benefits. Apples are rich in fiber and antioxidants, particularly quercetin, which may have anti-inflammatory properties. Walnuts provide heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids and protein. The mixed greens offer a range of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin C, and folate. Cranberries are known for their high antioxidant content and potential urinary tract health benefits. To make this salad even healthier, you could reduce the amount of sugar used for the candied walnuts or use raw walnuts instead. The olive oil in the dressing provides beneficial monounsaturated fats. As always, be mindful of portion sizes, especially with the candied nuts and dressing.

Ingredients

For the candied walnuts:

1 cup walnut halves
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp unsalted butter
Pinch of salt
For the salad:
2 large crisp apples (like
Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), thinly sliced
6 cups mixed salad greens
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)

For the dressing:

3 tbsp apple cider vinegar
2 tbsp honey
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

For candied walnuts, melt sugar in a non-stick skillet over medium heat until light amber.
Add butter and walnuts, stirring to coat. Cook for 2-3 minutes until walnuts are toasted.
Spread walnuts on parchment paper, sprinkle with salt, and let cool completely.
In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar, honey, and mustard.
Slowly whisk in olive oil until emulsified. Season with salt and pepper.
In a large bowl, toss mixed greens with half the dressing.
Add sliced apples and dried cranberries, tossing gently.
Top salad with candied walnuts and crumbled blue cheese if using.
Drizzle with remaining dressing or serve on the side.
Serve immediately while walnuts are still crisp.

Crunch into this Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries and let your taste buds dance with the flavors of autumn! This vibrant salad brings together the crisp sweetness of fresh apples, the tangy pop of dried cranberries, and the irresistible crunch of candied walnuts, all tossed in a honey-mustard vinaigrette that ties everything together perfectly. It’s like capturing the essence of a crisp fall day in a bowl. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or a stunning addition to your holiday table, this salad is sure to impress. The optional blue cheese adds a creamy, savory note that complements the sweet and tangy elements beautifully. So slice those apples, toast those nuts, and get ready to toss up a salad that’s anything but ordinary – it’s like taking a delicious stroll through an autumn orchard with every forkful!