Name: Vibrant Apple Cranberry Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 6 cups Mixed Baby Greens (Substitute with arugula, spinach, or kale for variety.); 2 medium Honeycrisp Apples (Can substitute with any apple variety.); 1 cup Dried Cranberries (Alternatives include raisins or pomegranate seeds.); 1 cup Raw Pecans (Swap with walnuts or use pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option.); 1/2 cup Gorgonzola Cheese (Substitute with feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.); 1/3 cup Olive Oil (Use avocado oil for a different taste.); 2 tablespoons Maple Syrup (Honey or agave syrup can be used as alternatives.); 2 tablespoons White Wine Vinegar (Substitute with apple cider vinegar.); 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard (Use mild versions as needed.); to taste Garlic Powder, Salt + Pepper (Enhance overall flavor; adjust quantities to taste.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As the air turns crisp and leaves start their colorful descent, there’s nothing quite like a delicious and vibrant Apple Cranberry Salad to celebrate the season. This lively dish comes together in just 20 minutes and marries the sweetness of honeycrisp apples with the tartness of cranberries, all tossed on a bed of mixed greens. You’ll love the creamy gorgonzola that adds a sumptuous touch, while the homemade maple dijon dressing elevates every bite. Not only is this Apple Cranberry Salad gluten-free and vegetarian, making it a fantastic option for various diets, but its quick prep makes it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. Ready to bring the flavors of fall to your table? Let’s dive into this delightful dish together!

Why Is This Salad a Must-Try?

Quick Preparation: In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this vibrant Apple Cranberry Salad, turning simple ingredients into a festive dish.

Flavor Explosion: The sweet honeycrisp apples and tart cranberries create a delightful contrast, while the creamy gorgonzola cheese pulls everything together beautifully.

Versatile Substitutes: Whether you’re out of gorgonzola or need a nut-free option, you can easily swap in different ingredients like feta or pumpkin seeds, making it customizable for everyone.

Seasonal Appeal: It’s the perfect salad for autumn, bringing the flavors of the season to your table, and pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or cozy casseroles. For more fresh ideas, check out this delicious Millionaire Peach Salad for summer vibes!

Healthy & Nutritious: This dish not only looks great but also offers a nutrient-packed punch, making it a wholesome choice you can feel good about serving.

Apple Cranberry Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Mixed Baby Greens – Provides a fresh and vibrant base for the salad; substitute with arugula, spinach, or kale for variety.
• Honeycrisp Apples – Offers sweetness and crunch; can substitute with any apple variety based on preference or availability.
• Dried Cranberries – Adds tartness and chewiness; alternatives include raisins or pomegranate seeds.
• Raw Pecans – Introduces a crunchy texture and nutty flavor; swap with walnuts or use pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option.
• Gorgonzola Cheese – Provides a creamy, tangy bite; substitute with feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile; for vegan options, use dairy-free cheese.

For the Dressing
• Olive Oil – Base for the dressing, adds healthy fats; use avocado oil for a different taste.
• Maple Syrup – Natural sweetener for the dressing; honey or agave syrup can be used as alternatives.
• White Wine Vinegar – Offers acidity to balance flavors; substitute with apple cider vinegar.
• Dijon Mustard – Adds a tangy depth to the dressing; use mild versions as needed.
• Garlic Powder, Salt + Pepper – Enhance overall flavor; adjust quantities to taste.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Cranberry Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a small jar, combine 1/3 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon dijon mustard, and a pinch of garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until emulsified. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the rest of the Apple Cranberry Salad.

Step 2: Mix the Salad Ingredients
In a large salad bowl, add 6 cups of mixed baby greens as the vibrant base. Slice 2 honeycrisp apples into thin wedges, add 1 cup dried cranberries, and toss in 1 cup of raw pecans for a delightful crunch. Crumble 1/2 cup of gorgonzola cheese on top for a creamy finish, making this Apple Cranberry Salad both colorful and flavorful.

Step 3: Combine and Dress the Salad
Give the dressing a quick shake to recombine any settled ingredients. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture, ensuring an even drizzle across all components. Using salad tongs, gently toss the Apple Cranberry Salad together for about 1-2 minutes until everything is nicely coated in the zesty maple dijon dressing.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust Seasoning
Before serving, taste the salad and assess the flavors. For extra zing, add a sprinkle of salt and pepper if needed, mixing it through once more. This step is crucial to ensure that the brightness of the dressing enhances the natural flavors of the apple and cranberry.

Step 5: Serve Immediately
Transfer the tossed Apple Cranberry Salad to a serving platter for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy it fresh while the greens are crisp and the apple slices are vibrant, making it a perfect side for your autumn gatherings. Consider garnishing with a few extra pecans on top for added texture!

Apple Cranberry Salad Variations

Feel free to get creative and tailor this Apple Cranberry Salad to your taste—your kitchen, your rules!

Quinoa Boost: Add cooked quinoa to make this salad heartier and increase its protein content. The nutty flavor of quinoa complements the sweetness of the apples beautifully.
Chicken Protein: Toss in grilled chicken or shredded rotisserie chicken for a delicious protein-packed meal. This simple addition turns a light salad into a fulfilling entrée.
Nuts Alternatives: Experiment with different nuts like walnuts or almond slivers for a different crunch. Alternatively, omit nuts entirely and use sunflower seeds for a nut-free twist.
Cheese Switch: Swap gorgonzola for feta or goat cheese to vary the flavor profile. Each cheese brings its own unique tang, perfect to match your palate.
Fruit Fusion: Incorporate different fruits, such as sliced pears or pomegranate seeds, for added sweetness and texture. These fruits will add another layer of seasonal delight to your salad!
Honey Substitution: If maple syrup isn’t on hand, agave syrup or honey can easily substitute. Each option offers a different sweetness that you might prefer, depending on your pantry.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to your dressing for a delightful heat. This spicy twist complements the sweetness of the apples and perfectly balances the flavors.
Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or mint into your salad for a refreshing flavor boost. These herbs add brightness and elevate the entire dish.

For more delightful salads, you might want to try this vibrant Millionaire Peach Salad or a refreshing Cucumber Shrimp Salad. The possibilities are as bountiful as the seasonal harvest!

What to Serve with Apple Cranberry Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing

This delightful mix of flavors not only stands out on its own but also invites delicious companions to the table.

Roasted Chicken: The savory flavors of roasted chicken complement the salad’s sweetness beautifully, creating a balanced meal.
Creamy Potato Gratin: This rich and cheesy side adds warmth, contrasting with the salad’s crisp texture for a comforting duo.
Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty and wholesome, quinoa pilaf brings a heartiness that pairs well with the lightness of the salad.
Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts with a hint of balsamic glaze create an earthy, crunchy side that enhances the dish’s complexity.
Fresh Baguette: A crusty bread is perfect for soaking up leftover dressing, adding to the meal’s overall experience.
Sparkling Apple Cider: This refreshing beverage enhances the flavor profile, echoing the sweetness of the apples in the salad.
Maple Pecan Pie: End the meal on a sweet note. The pie’s rich, nutty flavors harmonize with the salad’s vibrant notes, making for a satisfying finish.

Make Ahead Options

These Apple Cranberry Salad components are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dish with minimal effort on busy nights! You can prepare the maple dijon dressing up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad ingredients, excluding the apples, can be pre-measured and refrigerated in separate containers for up to 24 hours to maintain their crispness. To retain the apples’ freshness and prevent browning, slice them just before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply combine everything in a large bowl, toss with the dressing, and delight in a restaurant-quality Apple Cranberry Salad with ease!

How to Store and Freeze Apple Cranberry Salad

Fridge: Store leftover Apple Cranberry Salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to maintain the crispness of the greens.

Dressing Storage: The homemade maple dijon dressing can be kept in the fridge for up to a week in a sealed jar, making it easy to use for other salads.

Avoiding Sogginess: To prevent sogginess, only combine the ingredients you plan to eat right away. Slice apples just before use.

Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this salad, as the texture of the greens and apples will degrade. Enjoy it fresh for the best experience!

Expert Tips for the Best Apple Cranberry Salad

Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh greens and fruits for the best flavor—this ensures your Apple Cranberry Salad bursts with vibrant taste.
Timing Is Key: To avoid brown apples, slice them right before serving. This keeps them crisp and colorful in your salad.
Customize Easily: Feel free to swap ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. The versatility of this Apple Cranberry Salad makes it adaptable!
Prep Ahead: Make the dressing in advance and store it in the fridge. Just mix it with the salad right before serving to preserve the crunchiness.
Taste Test: Always taste the salad before serving. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the fruits and greens.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness and avoid sogginess.

Apple Cranberry Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe apples for the salad?
Absolutely! When selecting honeycrisp apples, look for firm, smooth, and shiny skin without any bruises or dark spots. A ripe apple should feel heavy for its size and have a sweet aroma. If you’re using other varieties, aim for crisp texture and vibrant color—this ensures every bite is crunchy and juicy.

What’s the best way to store leftover salad?
Very! Store any leftover Apple Cranberry Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep the greens crisp, I recommend keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to enjoy it again. This way, your salad stays fresh and tasty!

Can I freeze any part of this salad for later?
While freezing is not recommended for the entire salad due to its texture, you can freeze the homemade maple dijon dressing! Pour it into an ice cube tray and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw the desired amount in the fridge overnight before use.

What should I do if my salad seems soggy or wilted?
Great question! If your Apple Cranberry Salad appears soggy, you can revive it by rinsing the greens under cold water and gently patting them dry with a paper towel. Consider tossing in fresh greens if the salad seems less vibrant. Also, avoid dressing the salad until just before serving to prevent wilting in the future.

Are there any allergies I should be aware of when making this salad?
Definitely! This Apple Cranberry Salad contains nuts (pecans) and dairy (gorgonzola cheese), which could trigger allergies in some individuals. For nut-free variations, you can simply omit the pecans or replace them with seeds. For dairy-free options, try using a vegan cheese or leaving it out entirely to keep the salad fresh and flavorful.

Can I make this salad ahead of time for a gathering?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Pre-chop all salad ingredients and keep them stored separately. Just combine the salad and dressing right before serving to ensure everything stays fresh and crunchy—perfect for busy holiday prep!