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Autumn Apple and Feta Salad with Maple Toasted Nuts

Autumn Apple and Feta Salad with Maple Toasted Nuts

Autumn Apple and Feta Salad with Maple Toasted Nuts combines crisp autumn apples, creamy feta cheese, and crunchy nuts glazed in sweet maple syrup. This refreshing salad balances sweet, savory, and crunchy textures, making it a perfect light meal or side dish to celebrate the flavors of the season with vibrant freshness and warmth in every bite.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 2 crisp apples (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), cored and thinly sliced
  • 4 cups mixed greens (baby spinach, arugula, or spring mix), washed and dried
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/2 cup mixed nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)

Dressing

  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Toast the Nuts with Maple Syrup: Warm a skillet over medium heat and add your choice of mixed nuts. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup over the nuts and toast for about 4-5 minutes until the nuts are golden and sticky, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
  2. Prepare the Apples and Greens: Wash and dry your mixed greens thoroughly to keep the salad crisp. Core and thinly slice the apples, leaving the skin on for extra color and nutrients. Combine the apples and greens in a large bowl to create the salad base.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. This simple vinaigrette will enhance the vibrant flavors without overpowering the salad.
  4. Assemble the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the greens and apples, then toss gently to coat. Sprinkle crumbled feta evenly on top, followed by the cooled maple toasted nuts for added crunch. Give the salad a final light toss to combine all ingredients perfectly.

Notes

  • Use a mix of tart and sweet apples to add depth to the flavor profile.
  • Keep stirring the maple nuts while toasting to avoid burning and ensure even coating.
  • Dress the salad just before serving to prevent sogginess.
  • Bring salad ingredients to room temperature for balanced flavors.
  • Combine soft cheese with crunchy nuts and crisp apples to create a satisfying contrast in every bite.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Toasting
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Sugar: 15 g
  • Sodium: 310 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 15 mg

Keywords: autumn salad, apple feta salad, maple toasted nuts, fall recipes, gluten free salad