Seasonal Cranberry Walnut Salad (Printable)

Fresh greens mixed with cranberries, toasted walnuts, apple slices, and tangy orange vinaigrette.

# What You'll Need:

→ Salad

01 - 6 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, romaine)
02 - 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries
03 - 1 cup toasted walnut halves
04 - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
05 - 1 large apple, cored and thinly sliced
06 - 3.5 oz crumbled goat cheese or feta

→ Orange Vinaigrette

07 - 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
08 - 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
09 - 1 tsp Dijon mustard
10 - 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
11 - 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
12 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# How to Make It:

01 - In a large salad bowl, mix the salad greens, cranberries, toasted walnuts, red onion, and apple slices.
02 - In a small bowl or jar, whisk orange juice, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey until blended. Gradually whisk in olive oil until the dressing is emulsified. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
03 - Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly.
04 - Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese or feta on top and serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It looks impressive but comes together faster than most people can set the table.
  • The tart cranberries and creamy cheese create a balance that keeps you coming back for more.
  • You can prep everything ahead and toss it at the last second so it stays crisp and bright.
02 -
  • Dress the salad at the very last moment or the greens will wilt and lose their freshness.
  • If your walnuts taste flat or stale, a quick toast in a dry pan brings them back to life completely.
  • Don't skip slicing the onion thin, thick chunks will overpower the delicate balance of flavors.
03 -
  • If your dressing breaks or looks separated, add a tiny splash of warm water and whisk vigorously to bring it back together.
  • Use a mix of dried and fresh cranberries for layered texture and a balance of tart and sweet in every bite.
  • Taste the salad after tossing and adjust with a pinch more salt or a drizzle more dressing if it needs it.
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