Ingredients
For the Salad
- 6 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
- 1 large Honeycrisp apple, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/3 cup pecans, toasted (or walnuts)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds (optional)
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Salad Base: In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, thinly sliced Honeycrisp apple, red onion, and dried cranberries. Toss gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Add Cheese and Nuts: Sprinkle the crumbled feta, toasted pecans, and pumpkin seeds (if using) over the salad, ensuring even coverage for a balanced bite.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until fully emulsified and smooth.
- Toss the Salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad. Gently toss everything together using salad tongs or clean hands, taking care not to bruise the greens.
- Garnish: Top the salad with pomegranate seeds and fresh thyme leaves for an extra punch of flavor, if desired.
- Serve: Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish or light vegetarian main course.
Notes
- Cheese Alternatives: Substitute feta with goat cheese or blue cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Nuts: Walnuts or almonds can be used in place of pecans.
- Fruits: Add slices of pear or orange for more autumn flavor.
- Greens: Feel free to use kale or romaine if you prefer a sturdier base.
- For meal prep, keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salads
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American, Seasonal
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
