Winter Harvest Salad is the ultimate way to enjoy the best seasonal flavors in a fresh, hearty dish. Packed with crisp apples, toasted walnuts, creamy goat cheese, and nutrient-rich winter greens, this salad is both delicious and satisfying. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights, holiday gatherings, or a simple, nourishing lunch.
Even better, this salad comes together in minutes! The crunchy walnuts add warmth, the sweet apples bring natural freshness, and the homemade tangy dressing ties everything together beautifully. Each bite is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
Want to make it a meal? Add grilled chicken or roasted turkey. Prefer a different cheese? Try feta or shaved parmesan. However you serve it, this salad is a total winter must-have. So, let’s dive into this simple yet flavorful recipe and bring some fresh, vibrant goodness to your table! ❄️
Recipe Yield: 4 servings
INGREDIENTS
5 cups mixed winter greens (kale, arugula, radicchio)
1 large apple, thinly sliced (Honeycrisp or Fuji)
1/2 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese (or feta)
1/4 cup dried cranberries
3 tbsp olive oil
1.5 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp honey
1.5 tsp Dijon mustard
1/4 tsp salt
Black pepper, to taste
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Prep the greens: In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed winter greens. Tear any large pieces of kale or radicchio into bite-sized chunks.
2. Add the toppings: Toss in the sliced apple, toasted walnuts, crumbled goat cheese, and dried cranberries.
3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
4. Dress and serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately and enjoy this fresh, hearty winter salad!
Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe
- Massage the Kale for a Softer Bite: If your salad features a lot of kale, take a minute to massage it with a little olive oil before adding it to the bowl. This simple trick helps break down its fibers, making it softer, less bitter, and more enjoyable to eat.
- Toast the Walnuts for Extra Flavor: For a deeper, more intense nutty flavor, toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant. This step enhances their crunch and makes them taste even better in the salad.
- Balance Sweetness and Tanginess: The combination of crisp apples, tangy apple cider vinegar, and creamy goat cheese creates the perfect flavor balance. If you prefer a sweeter salad, use a Gala or Fuji apple. For more tang, add an extra drizzle of vinegar before serving.
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