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Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad Recipe

Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad Recipe

5.2 from 28 reviews

This Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing salad perfect for fall. Featuring crisp Honeycrisp apples, tangy feta cheese, toasted pecans, and a sweet-tangy honey Dijon dressing, it’s a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that celebrates the season’s bounty. Enhanced with dried cranberries, pomegranate seeds, and fresh thyme leaves, this salad is perfect as a light main course or a festive side dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Base

  • 6 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
  • 1 large Honeycrisp apple, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries

Cheese and Nuts

  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/3 cup pecans, toasted (or walnuts)
  • 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds (optional)

Garnish and Extras

  • 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)

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. Prepare the Salad Base: In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, thinly sliced Honeycrisp apple, red onion, and dried cranberries to form the fresh, fruity foundation of the salad.
  2. Add Cheese and Nuts: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese, toasted pecans, and pumpkin seeds (if using) over the salad, adding creaminess and crunch.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and emulsified, balancing sweet and tangy flavors perfectly.
  4. Toss the Salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring every ingredient is lightly coated without becoming soggy.
  5. Garnish: Top the salad with pomegranate seeds and fresh thyme leaves for an extra burst of flavor and a festive appearance, if desired.
  6. Serve: Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish or a light main meal and enjoy the crisp, sweet, and savory flavors perfectly celebrating the autumn harvest.

Notes

  • For extra crunch, toast the pecans or walnuts lightly before adding.
  • Pomegranate seeds and fresh thyme leaves are optional but add a great burst of color and flavor.
  • You can substitute the mixed greens with kale or romaine if preferred.
  • Adjust the honey in the dressing to your preferred sweetness level.
  • Serve the salad immediately to avoid sogginess from the dressing.

Nutrition

Keywords: Autumn salad, Honeycrisp apple salad, Feta cheese salad, Fall recipe, Healthy salad, Holiday side dish