Elevate your salad game with the Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad, a delightful blend of crisp apples, creamy feta, and crunchy pecans, all tossed in a tangy honey-Dijon vinaigrette. This recipe comes together in just fifteen minutes but packs a punch of flavor and color that will brighten any meal, whether you’re welcoming autumn or just craving a refreshing, satisfying bite. The sweet, tart, and savory notes meld beautifully, making this salad a beloved staple in my kitchen—and it’s sure to become one in yours too!

Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to the Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad, each ingredient pulls its weight, bringing out both contrast and harmony in every bite. From snappy apples to rich feta, this salad is all about simple, thoughtfully chosen components working their magic together.

Honeycrisp apples: Their signature crunch and sweetness provide the perfect fresh bite—don’t substitute, if you can help it!
Mixed greens or arugula: A blend of mild and peppery greens gives balance and fullness to every forkful.
Crumbled feta cheese: Salty and creamy, feta adds delicious richness to the salad.
Candied pecans or walnuts: Toasted, sugary nuts supply irresistible crunch and a touch of decadence.
Red onion: Sliced ultra thin, it gives the salad a bit of zing and sharp flavor contrast.
Dried cranberries: Tart, chewy cranberries bring a pop of vibrant color and sweet-tart flavor.
Olive oil: Smooth and rich, olive oil forms the luxurious base for the dressing.
Apple cider vinegar: Gently tart, it complements the apples and lifts all the flavors.
Honey: Adds natural sweetness and rounds out the vinaigrette perfectly.
Dijon mustard: A bit of Dijon gives just the right tang and ties the dressing together.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning—adjust to taste!

How to Make Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad

Step 1: Whisk the Dressing

Start with the dressing for maximum flavor. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. The honey binds beautifully with the Dijon and vinegar, creating a sweet-tart emulsion that will shine over your greens. Taste once whisked and tweak the seasoning if needed.

Step 2: Prepare the Produce

Thinly slice the Honeycrisp apples and red onion—taking a little time here gives each bite a delicate crunch without overpowering the salad. If you love uniform slices, a mandoline works wonders, but a sharp knife will do the trick too. The fresher your produce, the better your Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad will taste!

Step 3: Combine the Base

Toss together your mixed greens or arugula in a large salad bowl. Layer on the sliced apples, crumbled feta, candied pecans (or walnuts), sliced red onion, and dried cranberries. This rainbow of colors and textures looks gorgeous already—and keeps every mouthful interesting.

Step 4: Dress and Toss

Just before serving, pour the freshly whisked dressing over the salad. Gently toss everything together, making sure the dressing coats all the greens and distributes the apples, feta, nuts, and cranberries evenly. This light touch keeps the Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad beautiful and crisp.

How to Serve Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad

Garnishes

A light extra sprinkle of crumbled feta or a few more candied nuts on top looks beautiful and adds even more flavor. Freshly cracked black pepper or a handful of microgreens also take the presentation—and taste—up a notch for your Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad.

Side Dishes

This salad truly sings as a standalone lunch, but it also pairs wonderfully as a side with grilled chicken, a slice of quiche, or a warm bowl of soup. The sweet, tangy flavors are especially fantastic with roasted autumn vegetables or any freshly baked bread.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elevated dinner party vibe, serve the Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad on a large platter with apple slices decoratively fanned out. Or try portioning it into individual bowls or mason jars for picnics. Even layered in a trifle-style glass bowl, the vibrant colors are guaranteed to wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad, simply cover the salad tightly and refrigerate it. For best taste and texture, enjoy within one day—though the greens may wilt a bit, the flavors will still be delicious.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this salad, as apples, greens, and cheese do not hold up well in the freezer. Their textures change dramatically, so it’s best to enjoy this salad fresh or stored briefly in the fridge.

Reheating

There’s no reheating needed! Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad is meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, highlighting the fresh flavors and crisp textures.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Salad

You can, but Honeycrisp apples are truly the star—they’re especially crisp, sweet, and juicy. If you substitute, choose an equally firm and sweet-tart apple like Fuji or Pink Lady for the best results.

Is there a vegan alternative to feta cheese?

Absolutely! There are plenty of plant-based feta alternatives available, or try using marinated tofu cubes for a tangy, creamy substitute in your Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad.

What nuts work best if I don’t have candied pecans or walnuts?

Roasted almonds or cashews make a tasty swap. If you’re nut-free, try adding toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a similar crunch.

How can I keep the apples from browning if prepping ahead?

Toss the sliced apples lightly with a splash of lemon juice, then store them separately until just before serving. This helps preserve their color and keeps your Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad looking fresh.

Can I make this salad into a main course?

Definitely! Add grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas for added protein. The salad base is hearty enough to stand up to extra toppings, making for a filling, nutritious lunch or dinner.

Final Thoughts

The Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad is proof that a handful of humble ingredients can create something truly spectacular. I hope you give this recipe a try and fall in love with every sweet, crunchy, tangy bite. Happy salad making!

Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 17 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful and refreshing salad featuring the crisp sweetness of Honeycrisp apples paired with tangy feta cheese, crunchy candied pecans, and a zesty dressing.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad:

2 Honeycrisp apples, thinly sliced
6 cups mixed greens or arugula
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/3 cup candied pecans or walnuts
1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
1/4 cup dried cranberries

Dressing:

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

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Instructions

Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Salad: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced Honeycrisp apples, feta cheese, candied pecans, red onion, and dried cranberries. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
Serve immediately.