Apple Cranberry Salad With Creamy Lemon Vinaigrette Recipe

This vibrant and festive Apple Cranberry Salad, inspired by Cook's Illustrated, is a showstopper for any holiday gathering or weeknight dinner. Sweet and tart apples dance with juicy cranberries and crunchy walnuts in a creamy, zesty lemon vinaigrette. Looking for a substitution? Raisins work perfectly in place of cranberries! Prepare this stunning salad in just 15 minutes.

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Calories 217.3 kcal
Protein 4g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Apple Cranberry Salad With Creamy Lemon Vinaigrette 28

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Apple Cranberry Salad With Creamy Lemon Vinaigrette

  • Granny Smith Apples
  • Lemon
  • Canola Oil
  • Heavy Cream
  • Salt & Fresh Ground Pepper
  • Celery Rib
  • Dried Cranberries
  • ½ cup chopped walnuts
  • Boston Lettuce

How to Make Apple Cranberry Salad With Creamy Lemon Vinaigrette

  1. In a medium bowl, toss 2 cups diced apples with 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Set aside.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, ¼ cup olive oil, and 2 tablespoons sour cream or crème fraîche.
  3. Season the dressing generously with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Add ½ cup chopped celery, ½ cup dried cranberries (or raisins), and ½ cup chopped walnuts to the apples.
  5. Drizzle the dressing over the fruit and nut mixture.
  6. Gently toss to coat everything evenly.
  7. Serve immediately on a bed of fresh lettuce leaves (optional).

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Small additions can make a big impact! Try a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a dash of your favorite spice blend, or a squeeze of citrus just before serving to really enhance the flavors of your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

0 g

Sugar

32g

Fat

14g

Carbs

5g