Christmas dinner always feels brighter with something fresh on the table. This Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries brings crisp apples, sweet crunchy walnuts, chewy cranberries, and tender greens together with a tangy apple cider vinaigrette. Plus, this colorful holiday side takes just 20 minutes and serves 5 to 6 people.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries
This salad brings a lovely balance of sweet, tart, and savory flavors. Every forkful offers juicy apples, golden candied walnuts, and ruby red cranberries.
Plus, the homemade dressing adds just enough tang without covering up the fresh ingredients.
You’ll also love how easily this salad fits into a busy Christmas dinner menu. It requires only 15 minutes of preparation and 5 minutes of cooking.
Best of all, the bright red and green colors look beautiful beside traditional holiday dishes.
Ingredients for Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries
You only need a handful of fresh ingredients and a few pantry staples. Together, they create a colorful salad with plenty of crunch.
Fresh Salad Ingredients
- 1 red apple: Core, quarter, and thinly slice it.
- Lemon juice: A small squeeze keeps the apple slices bright.
- 120 g (4 oz) mixed salad greens: About 4 to 5 large handfuls.
- 1/2 red onion: Cut into thin wedges.
- 3/4 cup dried cranberries: Add sweetness and chewy texture.
- 2 tablespoons crumbled feta or goat cheese: Optional, for a creamy finish.
Ingredients for Homemade Candied Walnuts
- 1 tablespoon salted butter: Helps create a rich caramel coating.
- 1/4 cup white sugar: Adds sweetness and crunch.
- 1 cup walnuts or pecans: Gives the salad its nutty flavor.
You’ll make more candied nuts than the salad needs. Therefore, save the extras for another salad or a quick snack.
Ingredients for Apple Cider Vinaigrette
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 1/2 teaspoons white sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
The vinegar adds brightness, while Dijon mustard gives the dressing a gentle sharpness. Meanwhile, olive oil brings everything together.
How to Make Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries
This Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries comes together in five simple steps.
Recipe details:
- Cuisine: Western
- Course: Salad, side dish
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 5 minutes
- Total time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 5 to 6
Step 1: Make the Candied Walnuts
First, melt the butter in a small nonstick skillet over medium heat. Then add the sugar and stir briefly.
Once the sugar starts bubbling, add the walnuts. Stir continuously for about 2 minutes until caramel coats the nuts.
Next, spread them over a parchment-lined tray. Separate the pieces and let them cool completely.
Finally, roughly chop half the walnuts and leave the others whole for extra crunch.
Step 2: Soften the Dried Cranberries
Meanwhile, place the dried cranberries in a small bowl. Pour freshly boiled water over them and let them soak for 10 minutes.
Then drain thoroughly. This quick step makes the cranberries softer, juicier, and pleasantly chewy.
However, you can skip soaking when you’re short on time.
Step 3: Slice the Apples and Prevent Browning
Next, core and quarter the apple. Cut each quarter into thin slices.
Then toss the slices with a little lemon juice. This helps prevent browning while you prepare the remaining ingredients.
For the prettiest presentation, keep the red skin on.
Step 4: Prepare the Apple Cider Vinaigrette
Add the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper to a jar.
Next, close the lid tightly and shake until the dressing looks smooth and well mixed.
Taste and adjust as needed. Add more vinegar for tang, sugar for sweetness, or olive oil for a richer finish.
Step 5: Assemble and Dress the Apple Salad
First, add the mixed greens, red onion, and half the apple slices to a large serving bowl.
Next, drizzle half the dressing over the greens and toss gently.
Then scatter the softened cranberries, about 3/4 cup candied walnuts, remaining apple slices, and optional cheese over the top.
Finally, drizzle with the remaining dressing and serve immediately.
Nutrition per serving: Approximately 364 calories, 26 g fat, 4 g saturated fat, 10 mg cholesterol, 344 mg sodium, 196 mg potassium, 32 g carbohydrates, 3 g fiber, 25 g sugar, and 4 g protein.
Each serving also provides approximately 895 IU vitamin A, 3.6 mg vitamin C, 64 mg calcium, and 1.1 mg iron. These estimates assume five servings and 3/4 cup candied walnuts. Daily values use a 2,000 calorie diet.
Tips for the Best Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad
A few small details make a big difference. So, keep these kitchen tips in mind.
Choose the Best Apples for Flavor and Crunch
Red apples work beautifully because they offer sweetness, gentle tartness, and gorgeous color.
However, Granny Smith apples bring a sharper bite. Golden apples offer a sweeter taste.
Most importantly, choose firm apples that hold their shape after slicing.
Keep the Apples Fresh and the Greens Crisp
Always wash and dry your salad greens thoroughly. Excess moisture can make the dressing watery.
Also, slice your apples shortly before serving. A little lemon juice helps keep them looking fresh.
Add the Dressing Just Before Serving
For the best texture, wait until everyone sits down before adding the vinaigrette.
Otherwise, the greens may soften and the candied walnuts can lose their crunch.
Easy Substitutions and Recipe Variations
One reason I enjoy this Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries is its flexibility. You can easily change a few ingredients to suit your family.
Swap Walnuts for Pecans, Almonds, or Seeds
Pecans make a lovely substitute for walnuts. Similarly, almonds add a firm, satisfying crunch.
For a nut-free option, try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
You can also skip caramelizing the nuts for a quicker salad.
Try Feta, Goat Cheese, or a Dairy-Free Version
Feta adds a salty bite that balances the sweet cranberries.
Meanwhile, goat cheese brings a soft, creamy texture.
For a dairy-free version, simply leave out the cheese and use a suitable plant-based butter when candying the nuts.
Adjust the Sweetness and Tanginess of the Dressing
If you enjoy a sweeter vinaigrette, add a little more sugar.
However, extra apple cider vinegar gives the dressing a brighter flavor.
For a smoother taste, stir in another splash of olive oil.
How to Make Apple Salad Ahead of Time
Holiday cooking gets busy quickly. Thankfully, you can prepare several components before your guests arrive.
Prepare the Candied Walnuts and Dressing in Advance
Make the candied walnuts ahead and let them cool completely.
Then store them in an airtight container for 1 to 2 weeks. You can also freeze them for several months.
Meanwhile, prepare the dressing and refrigerate it in a sealed jar. Shake again before serving.
Store the Salad Ingredients Separately for Freshness
Wash and dry the greens ahead of time. Then refrigerate them in a covered container.
Also, keep the cranberries, onions, and cheese separate until assembly.
Finally, slice the apples close to serving time for the freshest appearance.
What to Serve with Apple Salad for Christmas Dinner
This Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries adds welcome freshness to rich holiday meals.
Holiday Main Dishes That Pair Well with Apple Salad
Serve it alongside roasted turkey, glazed ham, roast chicken, or beef tenderloin.
The crisp apples and tangy dressing balance savory meats beautifully.
Plus, the sweet walnuts add a festive touch without making the meal feel heavy.
Other Festive Side Dishes to Complete Your Christmas Menu
Pair this salad with roasted carrots, creamy mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts.
For more holiday food inspiration, follow Kai Recipes on Pinterest or join our recipe community on Facebook.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best dressing for an apple walnut salad?
Apple cider vinaigrette works beautifully. Its tangy vinegar, smooth olive oil, and mild Dijon mustard balance the sweet apples and walnuts.
What is a salad with apples and walnuts called?
Many people call it an apple walnut salad. However, a classic Waldorf salad also combines apples and walnuts, usually with celery, grapes, and a creamy dressing.
What are the ingredients in an apple cranberry walnut salad?
You typically need fresh apples, mixed greens, dried cranberries, walnuts, and a light dressing. You can also add red onion and crumbled cheese for extra flavor.
Do walnuts and cranberries go well together?
Absolutely! Walnuts bring a rich, earthy crunch, while cranberries add sweetness and tartness. Together, they create a delicious contrast in fresh salads.
More Such Recipes
If you enjoyed this festive salad, try these fresh and colorful recipes next:
- Fresh apple arugula salad with goat cheese and maple-roasted pecans
- Classic Waldorf salad with crisp apples, grapes, and crunchy walnuts
- Easy fall fruit salad with apples, pecans, and maple dressing
- Roasted beet and kale salad with cranberries, walnuts, and goat cheese
- Quick garden salad with fresh vegetables and homemade vinaigrette
- Refreshing berry fruit salad for summer gatherings and holiday celebrations
Final Thoughts
This Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries brings fresh flavor, beautiful Christmas colors, and sweet and savory crunch to your holiday table.
Plus, it takes just 20 minutes and pairs wonderfully with family dinners and festive gatherings.
So, grab a crisp apple, make those golden walnuts, and give this cheerful Christmas side dish a try!
Nutrition information per serving (based on 5 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 364 kcal |
| Total Fat | 26 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Cholesterol | 10 mg |
| Sodium | 344 mg |
| Potassium | 196 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 32 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 25 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Vitamin A | 895 IU |
| Vitamin C | 3.6 mg |
| Calcium | 64 mg |
| Iron | 1.1 mg |
Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries : Easy
Description
This Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts and Cranberries combines crisp apples, fresh greens, chewy cranberries, crunchy caramelized walnuts, and a tangy apple cider vinaigrette. This colorful Christmas side dish takes just 20 minutes and serves 5 to 6 people.
Ingredients
- SALAD
- 1 red apple, cored, quartered, and thinly sliced
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice
- 120 g (4 oz) mixed salad greens, about 4 to 5 large handfuls
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced into wedges
- 3/4 cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
- CANDIED WALNUTS
- 1 tablespoon salted butter
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1 cup walnuts or pecans
- APPLE CIDER VINAIGRETTE
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 1/2 teaspoons white sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Heat the salted butter in a small nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the sugar once the butter melts. Stir briefly and let the sugar dissolve until it begins bubbling.
- Add the walnuts or pecans. Stir continuously for about 2 minutes until the caramelized sugar coats the nuts evenly.
- Transfer the candied nuts to a parchment-lined tray. Separate the pieces and let them cool completely. Roughly chop half and leave the rest whole.
- Place the dried cranberries in a bowl. Cover them with freshly boiled water and soak for 10 minutes. Drain thoroughly.
- Core, quarter, and thinly slice the red apple. Toss the slices with a squeeze of lemon juice to help prevent browning.
- Combine the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper in a jar. Close the lid and shake vigorously until the dressing blends. Taste and adjust the sweetness or acidity.
- Place the mixed salad greens, red onion, and half the apple slices in a large serving bowl. Add half the vinaigrette and toss gently.
- Scatter the softened cranberries, about 3/4 cup candied walnuts, remaining apple slices, and optional crumbled cheese over the salad.
- Drizzle with the remaining vinaigrette and serve immediately for the best flavor and crunch.
Notes
Choose firm red apples for their sweet, mildly tart flavor and attractive color. Granny Smith apples offer a sharper taste, while golden apples taste sweeter.
Replace walnuts with pecans, almonds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds for a different crunch.
The candied nut recipe makes more than the salad requires. Use about 3/4 cup for the salad when following the nutrition estimates.
Store leftover candied nuts in an airtight container for 1 to 2 weeks or freeze them for several months.
Skip caramelizing the nuts if you prefer a quicker preparation.
Soak the dried cranberries for 10 minutes to make them softer and juicier. You can skip this step when short on time.
Toss the apple slices with lemon juice to help prevent browning. Skip this step if you plan to serve the salad immediately.
Feta and goat cheese are optional garnishes. Leave out the cheese for a lighter salad.
Adjust the dressing with more olive oil for richness, sugar for sweetness, or apple cider vinegar for extra tang.
Prepare the candied walnuts and vinaigrette ahead of time. Keep the salad ingredients separate until serving.
Add the dressing just before serving to maintain crisp greens and crunchy walnuts.
Nutrition estimates assume 5 servings and 3/4 cup candied walnuts. Percent daily values use a 2,000-calorie diet.
Additional nutrients per serving: potassium 196 mg, vitamin A 895 IU, vitamin C 3.6 mg, calcium 64 mg, and iron 1.1 mg.