Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad

Name: Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups mixed greens; 2 Honeycrisp apples, sliced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped; 1/4 cup dried cranberries; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Enjoy the delightful combination of sweet Honeycrisp apples and tangy feta cheese in this refreshing autumn salad.

Created by

Lauren Mitchell

Last updated on 2025-12-19T16:40:52.777Z

This Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad captures the essence of fall with its vibrant colors and contrasting flavors. A perfect side dish for Thanksgiving or a light lunch on a crisp day.

        Why You'll Love This Salad
        Crisp and juicy Honeycrisp apples add a refreshing sweetness.
Creamy feta cheese provides a delightful contrast to the apples.
Packed with seasonal ingredients that celebrate autumn.

      

A Perfect Fall Dish

As autumn ushers in a bounty of seasonal produce, this Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad captures the essence of the season beautifully. The combination of crisp Honeycrisp apples, which are at their peak during the fall, with creamy feta cheese is a delightful representation of the flavors we associate with this time of year. Each bite is a celebration of the harvest, making it an ideal dish for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.

Not only does this salad boast an appealing mix of textures, but it also provides a balanced meal that is both refreshing and satisfying. The sweetness of the apples complements the tanginess of the feta, while the walnuts add a delightful crunch. Toss in some dried cranberries for a pop of flavor and color, and you have a dish that is as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Health Benefits

This salad is not just about taste; it's also packed with nutritional benefits. Mixed greens provide essential vitamins and minerals, while Honeycrisp apples are rich in dietary fiber and antioxidants. Eating apples is linked to numerous health benefits, including improved heart health and better digestion. Feta cheese, on the other hand, is a great source of calcium and protein, making this salad a well-rounded choice for any meal.

Adding walnuts to the mix further enhances the health quotient. They are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Dried cranberries add a touch of sweetness along with their own health benefits, such as urinary tract health support. Together, these ingredients create a wholesome salad that nourishes the body while satisfying the palate.

Serving Suggestions

This Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. It makes for a fantastic side dish at Thanksgiving or a light lunch option paired with grilled chicken or turkey. You can also serve it as a starter at dinner parties, impressing your guests with both its presentation and flavor.

For those looking to elevate the dish further, consider adding grilled chicken or quinoa to turn it into a hearty main course. The salad can easily adapt to your preferences, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Don't hesitate to experiment with additional ingredients such as sliced pears or toasted pumpkin seeds for a unique twist.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

4 cups mixed greens
2 Honeycrisp apples, sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup dried cranberries

Dressing Ingredients

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl for a colorful and nutritious meal.

Instructions

Prepare the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced Honeycrisp apples, crumbled feta cheese, chopped walnuts, and dried cranberries.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Toss and Serve

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately for best freshness.

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a day.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover salad, it's essential to store it properly to maintain freshness. Keep the salad and dressing separate until you're ready to enjoy it again. Place the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to 2 days. However, for the best taste and texture, consume it within 24 hours.

When you're ready to eat the leftovers, give the salad a gentle toss, add some fresh dressing if necessary, and enjoy. If the apples have browned slightly, a squeeze of lemon juice can help revive their color and flavor. This way, you can relish the delightful combination of flavors even after the first serving.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with this salad by incorporating other seasonal ingredients. Pears, for instance, are a fantastic alternative to Honeycrisp apples if you're looking for a different flavor profile. You could also swap feta for goat cheese, which offers a distinct tang and creaminess that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

For a bit of heat, consider adding thinly sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. If you're looking for a vegan option, replace the cheese with avocado or a plant-based feta alternative. The possibilities are endless, and each variation can bring a new twist to this already delightful autumn salad.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients in advance and assemble right before serving.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

You can use goat cheese or a dairy-free cheese alternative if you prefer.

→ Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or chickpeas would make great additions.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.