Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad

Fall is the perfect time to enjoy the vibrant flavors of the season, and what better way to celebrate than with a fresh and crunchy Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad? This delightful dish combines the sweetness of Honeycrisp apples, the creaminess of feta cheese, and a mix of nuts, fruits, and greens. It’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a light meal or a refreshing side dish.

Why Make This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to try this Autumn Harvest salad:

Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet, salty, and crunchy elements creates a burst of flavors in every bite.
Seasonal Ingredients: This salad showcases some of the best fall produce and flavors, making it ideal for autumn gatherings or cozy dinners.
Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins and minerals, this salad is both healthy and satisfying.
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip this up in no time.

How to Make Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad

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

Directions

In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, thinly sliced Honeycrisp apple, red onion, and dried cranberries.
Sprinkle the crumbled feta, toasted pecans, and pumpkin seeds (if using) over the salad.
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Ensure that everything is evenly coated without making the salad soggy.
Top the salad with pomegranate seeds and fresh thyme leaves for an extra burst of flavor, if desired.
Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish or light main meal.

How to Serve Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad

This salad is best served fresh. You can present it in a large bowl for a family-style dinner or divide it into individual plates for a more formal setting. Drizzling a little extra dressing on top just before serving can enhance its appeal. Pair this salad with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.

How to Store Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. However, keep in mind that the salad may become soggy due to the dressing, so it’s best to dress it just before serving. If you expect leftovers, consider keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.

Tips to Make Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad

Choose Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your apples and greens will significantly impact the overall flavor. Always go for fresh, crisp ingredients.
Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the honey in the dressing according to your taste.
Add Protein: To make the salad more filling, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or beans.

Variations

Substitute feta with goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
Use any seasonal fruit like pears or persimmons in place of Honeycrisp apples.
Experiment with other nuts, such as almonds or cashews, for added crunch.

FAQs

Can I make this salad in advance?
- While you can prep the ingredients ahead of time, it’s best to dress the salad just before serving to keep it fresh.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
- Yes! Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to avoid sogginess.
What can I use instead of Honeycrisp apples?
- Other crispy apples, such as Fuji or Gala, work well in this salad.

This Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad will not only delight your taste buds but also elevate your fall dining experience. Enjoy the season with this vibrant and nutritious dish!

Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad

A vibrant fall salad that combines sweet Honeycrisp apples, creamy feta cheese, nuts, fruits, and mixed greens for a delightful and nutritious dish.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Total Time 15

Course Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine American, Healthy

Servings 4 servings

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

Salad 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 medium red onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)

Dressing Ingredients

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

Instructions

Preparation

In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, thinly sliced Honeycrisp apple, red onion, and dried cranberries.
Sprinkle the crumbled feta, toasted pecans, and pumpkin seeds (if using) over the salad.
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Ensure that everything is evenly coated without making the salad soggy.
Top the salad with pomegranate seeds and fresh thyme leaves for an extra burst of flavor, if desired.
Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish or light main meal.

Notes

Best served fresh. Consider presenting it in a large bowl for a family-style dinner or dividing it into individual plates for a more formal setting. Drizzling a little extra dressing on top just before serving can enhance its appeal.

Keyword Apple Salad, Autumn Salad, fall recipes, Feta Salad, Healthy Recipes