Apple Walnut Salad With Cranberry Vinaigrette Recipe

Ingredients for Apple Walnut Salad With Cranberry Vinaigrette

• 1/2 cup walnut halves
• Salad Greens
• Gala Apples
• Fresh Cranberries
• Balsamic Vinegar
• Red Onion
• 2 tablespoons honey
• Dijon Mustard
• Vegetable Oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

How to Make Apple Walnut Salad With Cranberry Vinaigrette

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Toast 1/2 cup walnut halves for 8-10 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Let cool completely.
2. In a food processor or blender, combine 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon finely chopped red onion, 2 tablespoons honey, and 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard.
3. Puree until completely smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
4. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in 1/2 cup olive oil until emulsified. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
5. In a large salad bowl, combine 5 cups mixed greens (e.g., spinach, arugula, romaine), 2 medium apples (cored and thinly sliced), and 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional).
6. Add the cranberry vinaigrette to the salad and toss gently to coat.
7. Sprinkle with the toasted walnuts and serve immediately.