Description
This apple walnut salad with blue cheese is a delicious combination of crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, and tangy blue cheese, all tossed with fresh salad greens and a flavorful homemade vinaigrette. Naturally gluten-free and easy to throw together, this simple apple walnut salad makes a tasty side for weeknight dinners, fall gatherings, and holiday meals.
Ingredients
- 3 apples, cored and diced
- 1/2 cup walnuts
- 2 cups salad mix
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of black pepper
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 10-12 small gluten-free croutons
Instructions
- Prepare Dressing: Combine apple cider vinegar, balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, and Dijon mustard in a small jar. Cover and shake well until the dressing is smooth and blended.
- Combine Apples with Walnuts & Salad Mix: Dice the apples and place them in a large bowl with walnuts and salad mix.
- Toss with Dressing, Salt & Pepper: Pour the dressing over the apples and greens. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss thoroughly to coat everything evenly. Taste and adjust if needed.
- Garnish & Serve: Serve on plates, top with crumbled blue cheese, and add the gluten-free croutons or toasted bread slices.
Notes
Apples: I like using red apples that are sweet and crisp (Honeycrisp or Pink Lady are great), but Granny Smith apples will work too if you like a more tart salad.
Walnuts: Walnuts add a deliciously crunchy texture that contrasts with the creamy blue cheese.
Salad Mix: Use your favorite mix of salad greens (a mix of lettuce, arugula or spinach is my favorite).
Vinegars: I used a mix of both apple cider vinegar and balsamic vinegar, but you can also use all balsamic vinegar if you prefer.
Honey: Honey adds extra sweetness to the vinaigrette.
Olive Oil: For the best flavor, I recommend using extra virgin olive oil.
Mustard: I used Dijon mustard, but you can also use other types of mustard if you prefer.
Blue Cheese: Blue cheese adds a creamy, salty and tangy contrast to the sweet apples and crunchy walnuts.
Croutons: I use gluten-free croutons to keep this recipe gluten-free. However, if you are not Celiac or gluten-intolerant, go ahead and use regular croutons instead.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Appetizer, Salads, Side Dishes
- Cuisine: Western
