A delightful crunch of crisp apples fills the air as I toss together my Easy Apple Cranberry Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing, instantly transporting me to a cozy fall afternoon. This vibrant salad not only showcases the beautiful contrast of sweet and tart flavors but also effortlessly brightens any table, making it a standout dish for gatherings. It’s quick to prepare, taking just 20 minutes, plus it’s a gluten-free and vegetarian option that even your non-veggie friends will love. Packed with texture from crunchy pecans and creamy gorgonzola, the maple dijon dressing brings everything together in harmony. Whether you serve it as a refreshing side or a light main, this salad is sure to invite smiles all around. Are you ready to elevate your salad game and impress your guests?
Why Will You Enjoy This Salad?
Bursting with Flavor: The harmonious blend of sweet honeycrisp apples and tart dried cranberries creates a vibrant flavor profile that’s truly irresistible.
Quick and Simple: Ready in just 20 minutes, you can whip this salad up without a fuss, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Versatile Ingredients: Swap in your favorite greens or experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a personalized touch.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This salad pairs beautifully with roasted sweet potatoes or a hearty protein, such as grilled chicken, ensuring it’s loved by all at the table.
Healthy and Wholesome: Gluten-free and packed with nutrients, it’s a guilt-free addition to your meal repertoire. You’ll also want to try it alongside a Cranberry Apple Twice or as part of a refreshing plate with Apple Broccoli Salad.
Apple Cranberry Salad Ingredients
• Perfect for a delightful crunch!
For the Salad
- Mixed Baby Greens – This base provides freshness and color; feel free to substitute with arugula or spinach for a different flavor.
- Honeycrisp Apples – Adds natural sweetness and crunch; any apple variety works well.
- Dried Cranberries – Adds a chewy texture and tart flavor; try cherries or raisins for a unique twist.
- Raw Pecans – Offers a nutty crunch; walnuts can be used as a substitute or omit for a nut-free version.
- Gorgonzola – The creamy, tangy cheese that perfectly balances sweetness; feta or goat cheese works too, or omit for a dairy-free option.
For the Dressing
- Olive Oil – Adds richness as the primary fat; avocado oil is a suitable alternative.
- Maple Syrup – Provides a natural sweetness to the dressing; honey or agave can be used instead.
- White Wine Vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds necessary acidity; balsamic vinegar is a great alternative for a distinct flavor.
- Dijon Mustard – Adds flavor depth; select a mild option for a better balance.
- Garlic Powder – Infuses savory notes into the dressing; fresh minced garlic can also be an exciting option.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavor; adjust to taste for a perfect seasoning.
Enjoy crafting the perfect Apple Cranberry Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing that will dazzle your guests!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Cranberry Salad With Maple Dijon Dressing
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a small jar, combine 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, 2 tablespoons of white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until the dressing is well-mixed and emulsified. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the salad.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad Base
In a large salad bowl, add 4 to 6 cups of mixed baby greens as your fresh base. Dice 2 medium Honeycrisp apples and add them in, taking time to enjoy their vibrant color. Toss in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries and 1/2 cup of raw pecans for that crunchy, chewy texture. If using gorgonzola or any preferred cheese, crumble 1/2 cup over the top, adding a creamy element to the salad.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Give the dressing a quick shake to ensure everything is blended nicely, then pour it generously over the salad mixture. With salad tongs, gently toss all ingredients together until evenly coated with the maple Dijon dressing, which will enhance the flavors of your Apple Cranberry Salad. Ensure every bite is well-seasoned and visually appealing with the colorful medley of ingredients.
Step 4: Adjust Seasoning and Serve
Once everything is combined, take a moment to taste your salad. If needed, sprinkle in a tad more salt and pepper for an extra flavor boost, mixing thoroughly to incorporate. Serve your Apple Cranberry Salad immediately for the freshest experience, showcasing the delectable mix of sweet, crunchy, and creamy textures that will surely delight your guests at any gathering.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Apple Cranberry Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dressing up to 3 days in advance, storing it in a sealed jar in the refrigerator to keep its vibrant flavors fresh. For optimal quality, store the mixed salad ingredients (excluding the apples) in a covered container for up to 24 hours. When it’s time to serve, simply slice the apples (to prevent browning) and assemble by pouring the dressing over the salad, tossing gently to combine. This way, you’ll have a delightful, fresh salad ready to impress, saving you precious time on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Apple Cranberry Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing
Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that bring balance and flavor to this vibrant salad.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Creamy and slightly sweet, they provide a perfect contrast to the salad’s crunch and tartness. Their earthy flavor complements the maple dressing beautifully.
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Grilled Chicken: Tender and juicy, grilled chicken adds a satisfying protein element. Its savory notes create a heartier meal without overwhelming the fresh salad flavors.
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Baked Salmon: The rich, flaky texture of salmon enhances the dish while its subtle essence melds harmoniously with the fruity elements of the salad.
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Quinoa Tabbouleh: For a gluten-free grain option, this refreshing tabbouleh bursts with herbs and zesty lemon, bringing a fresh contrast that enhances the overall meal.
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Cranberry Sauce: A spoonful of homemade cranberry sauce echoes the salad’s ingredients, amplifying the seasonal appeal while adding a lovely touch of sweetness.
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Apple Pie: For dessert, the warm spices and sweetness of a classic apple pie will round out the meal, creating a wonderful finale that highlights fall flavors.
How to Store and Freeze Apple Cranberry Salad
Fridge: Keep the assembled salad in an airtight container for up to 1 day, ensuring the apples stay fresh and crunchy.
Dressing Storage: Prepare the maple Dijon dressing separately and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and ready for use!
Ingredient Preparation: If making ahead, store salad ingredients (excluding apples) in a covered container to maintain freshness. Add apples just before serving for a delightful crunch.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for this salad, as the fresh greens and apple slices can become soggy and lose their texture upon thawing. Enjoy your Apple Cranberry Salad fresh!
Apple Cranberry Salad Variations
Embrace your creativity in the kitchen with these exciting twists and swaps for your Apple Cranberry Salad!
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Nut-Free: Swap raw pecans with pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch without the nuts, perfect for allergy-friendly meals. The seeds add a subtle earthiness, enhancing the overall flavor.
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Grain Boost: Stir in cooked quinoa or farro for added substance, making this salad even more filling. These grains bring a hearty texture that complements the fresh ingredients beautifully.
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Heat Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the dressing for a spicy kick that contrasts the sweetness perfectly. Your guests will love the unexpected heat!
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Vegan Delight: Omit gorgonzola and use a plant-based cheese or avocado to keep it creamy while making this salad fully vegan. You’ll maintain that sumptuous texture without losing flavor.
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Fruit Variation: Consider swapping dried cranberries with diced fresh pears or cherries for a unique twist in flavor and texture. Each option provides a fresh burst that elevates your salad.
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Dijon Twist: Experiment with whole grain or spicy Dijon mustard to have an extra layer of flavor in your dressing, adding both depth and complexity. The mustard kick can transform the taste profile beautifully.
Make this salad your own by incorporating these variations, and don’t forget to serve it alongside my delightful Harvest Pasta Salad for an impressive spread!
Expert Tips for Apple Cranberry Salad
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Apple Freshness: Slice your apples just before serving to prevent browning, ensuring they stay crisp and visually appealing in your Apple Cranberry Salad.
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Dressing Storage: Prepare the dressing ahead of time and store it separately from the salad ingredients to maintain freshness and crunch until serving.
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Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to substitute with ingredients you love—try walnuts in place of pecans or feta instead of gorgonzola for a unique twist that tailored to your taste.
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Serving Suggestion: Pair this salad with a protein like grilled chicken or fish, or serve it alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love.
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Make-Ahead Tip: If making ahead, store salad components (except apples) in a tightly sealed container to preserve freshness. Just add the apples and dressing before serving.
Apple Cranberry Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right apples for this salad?
Absolutely! I recommend selecting Honeycrisp apples for their perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. However, you can easily substitute them with Fuji, Gala, or any other crisp variety you enjoy. Look for apples that are firm, without any dark spots or blemishes, ensuring they’ll add that delightful crunch to your Apple Cranberry Salad.
What’s the best way to store my salad if I’m making it ahead?
Very good question! For the best results, store the mixed salad ingredients—without the apples— in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Prepare the dressing ahead as well, keeping it in a jar for about 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just toss in the sliced apples and pour over the dressing for maximum freshness!
Can I freeze my Apple Cranberry Salad if I make too much?
Freezing this salad is not recommended. The fresh greens and crisp apple slices will not hold their texture once thawed. Instead, focus on enjoying your salad fresh within a day for the best flavor and consistency. That way, every bite remains just as delicious as when you first made it!
I’m concerned about allergies; can I make this recipe nut-free?
Of course! Simply omit the pecans (or any nuts) from the Apple Cranberry Salad. You can replace them with crunchy seeds like pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds, which will provide a similar texture and flavor. Always ensure to inform your guests of any ingredient changes to cater to their dietary needs—it’s all about keeping everyone safe and happy!
How can I prevent the apples from browning before serving?
To keep those lovely apple slices looking fresh and vibrant, I suggest slicing them just before serving. You can also toss them in a bit of lemon juice to slow the browning process. If you prepare the salad ahead of time, add the apples in right before you’re ready to serve to maintain that crunchy texture.
What if I can’t find gorgonzola cheese?
Not a problem at all! If you can’t find gorgonzola or prefer something different, you can substitute it with feta or goat cheese for a delightful change. These options will also add a creamy element to your salad while pairing beautifully with the sweetness of the apples and cranberries. Enjoy experimenting!
Crispy Apple Cranberry Salad With Maple Dijon Dressing
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small jar, combine olive oil, maple syrup, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Secure the lid and shake for 30 seconds. Set aside.
- In a large salad bowl, add mixed baby greens. Dice the Honeycrisp apples and add them in. Toss in dried cranberries and raw pecans. If using gorgonzola, crumble it over the top.
- Shake the dressing again and pour it over the salad mixture. Toss gently to coat everything well.
- Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately.
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