Hello, my dear friends! Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that’s close to my heart and perfect for bringing a bit of sunshine to your family table. This Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad with Maple Dressing is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s a delightful combination of sweet, tart, and nutty flavors, all wrapped up in a beautiful presentation. Whether you’re gathering around the table on a busy weeknight or hosting a weekend brunch, this salad is sure to be a star.

I have fond memories of making this salad with my kids, who love to help out in the kitchen. It’s simple enough for them to get involved, and they always have a blast tossing the ingredients together. The best part? Watching them enjoy the fruits (and greens!) of their labor with big smiles on their faces. Food has a magical way of bringing us together, and this salad is no exception.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

Family-Friendly: This salad is perfect for all ages. The sweet apples and cranberries make it appealing for kids, while the sophisticated flavors of goat cheese and walnuts cater to adult palates. The contrasting textures and flavors ensure that there’s something in every bite for everyone at the table.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have this salad ready in under 15 minutes. It’s an easy recipe that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, leaving you more time to spend with your loved ones. It’s perfect for those hectic days when you still want to serve something wholesome and homemade.
Nutrient-Packed: Packed with fresh spinach, apples, and cranberries, this salad is a powerhouse of vitamins and antioxidants. Spinach is rich in iron, apples provide dietary fiber, and cranberries offer a boost of vitamin C. It’s a healthy choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor, making it a guilt-free pleasure.
Versatile: Serve it as a main dish for a light meal or as a side dish to complement your favorite comfort foods. It’s suitable for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to a festive celebration. Its versatility makes it a go-to recipe, whether you’re looking for a simple lunch or an elegant dinner starter.
Beautiful Presentation: With its vibrant colors and layered ingredients, this salad looks as good as it tastes. The red of the apples, the deep green of the spinach, and the creamy white of the goat cheese create a visual feast. It’s a showstopper that brings a touch of elegance to your table, making it perfect for impressing guests.

Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad with Maple Dressing

The Recipe

Ingredients:

6 cups baby spinach
2 medium red apples, thinly sliced
½ cup dried cranberries
½ cup candied or toasted walnuts
⅓ cup crumbled goat cheese or feta
1 tablespoon lemon juice
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until fully combined. This dressing has a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, tying all the flavors together. Consider making a larger batch to keep on hand for other salads throughout the week.
Prep the Apples: Core and thinly slice the apples. Toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning and keep them looking fresh and appetizing. This step also adds a slight tang that complements the sweetness of the apples and the overall flavor profile of the salad.
Assemble the Salad: In a large serving bowl, add the baby spinach as your base. Layer the sliced apples, cranberries, walnuts, and goat cheese over the spinach. This simple layering technique keeps things visually appealing. You can also prepare individual servings on plates for a more personalized touch.
Dress and Toss: Drizzle the dressing over the top of the salad just before serving. You can toss gently to combine everything or leave it beautifully layered for an elegant presentation. If serving later, keep the dressing separate to maintain the salad’s crisp texture.
Serve and Enjoy: Pair this salad with a crusty piece of bread or alongside a hearty soup for a complete meal. It’s also delightful on its own for a refreshing and satisfying lunch.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Salad Bowl: A large serving bowl for assembling your salad. A clear glass bowl can enhance the visual appeal by showing off the layers.
Whisk or Jar: For mixing the dressing ingredients. A mason jar works well and allows for easy storage and shaking.
Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for slicing the apples. A sharp knife ensures thin, even slices that look professional.
Measuring Spoons and Cups: To ensure you get the perfect balance of flavors. Accurate measurements help maintain the intended taste of the dressing.

The Benefits of Each Ingredient

Baby Spinach: A fantastic source of iron and vitamins A and C, spinach forms the nutritious base of our salad. It’s low in calories but rich in health benefits, making it a perfect leafy green for any salad.
Red Apples: These add a sweet crunch while providing fiber and vitamin C. I love using them for their vibrant color and crisp texture, but feel free to experiment with different apple varieties like Granny Smith for a tart twist.
Dried Cranberries: They bring a touch of tartness and are rich in antioxidants. Plus, they add a pop of color and can be substituted with fresh pomegranate seeds for a seasonal variation.
Walnuts: Packed with healthy fats and protein, walnuts add a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor. Toasting them enhances their flavor, but you can also use pecans or almonds as alternatives.
Goat Cheese or Feta: This creamy element adds a tangy depth to the salad, balancing the sweetness of the apples and cranberries. For a dairy-free option, try using avocado for creaminess.
Maple Syrup Dressing: The maple syrup lends a subtle sweetness that complements the other ingredients beautifully. Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of syrup to your taste preference.

What to Serve With This Salad

This Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad with Maple Dressing pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Here are some suggestions to make your meal complete:

Roasted Chicken: The savory flavors of roasted chicken work beautifully with the sweet and tangy notes of the salad. Check out my Roasted Herb Chicken recipe for a perfect pairing that’s sure to please the whole family.
Butternut Squash Soup: A warm bowl of soup alongside this fresh salad makes for a comforting meal. Try my Creamy Butternut Squash Soup for a delightful combination that’s ideal for chilly nights.
Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread to soak up any leftover dressing. A sourdough or multigrain loaf complements the salad’s flavors and adds a hearty element to the meal.

Storage & Leftover Tips

Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers. The salad will keep for up to 2 days in the fridge, while the dressing can last up to a week. This separation helps maintain the salad’s freshness and prevents sogginess.
Keep It Fresh: To prevent the spinach from wilting, add the dressing right before serving. If you’re planning to enjoy the salad later, keep the ingredients separate and assemble just before eating. Consider packing the salad in portions for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

In conclusion, this Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad with Maple Dressing is more than just a dish—it’s a way to bring your family together over a meal that’s both delicious and nourishing. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do. Remember, cooking for loved ones is one of the greatest joys in life. Happy cooking, and until next time, may your kitchen be filled with love and laughter!

Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad with Maple Dressing

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