Autumn's vibrant colors and crisp air inspire cozy gatherings and delicious food. This fresh cranberry apple salad is the perfect embodiment of the season, offering a delightful blend of sweet, tart, and slightly nutty flavors. It's incredibly easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is a healthy addition to any meal—perfect for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a festive side dish. Prepare yourself for a taste of autumn magic!
Ingredients:
This recipe makes a generous serving for 4-6 people. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your needs.
- 4 cups fresh cranberries, rinsed
- 2 large apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala recommended), cored and diced
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey, to taste)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
This easy recipe comes together in minutes!
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Prepare the Cranberries: In a medium bowl, gently combine the fresh cranberries with the orange juice, maple syrup, and lemon juice. Let this mixture sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the cranberries to soften slightly and release their juices. This step enhances the overall flavor and texture of the salad.
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Add the Apples and Nuts: Add the diced apples and chopped walnuts (or pecans) to the cranberry mixture. Gently toss to combine, ensuring the apples and nuts are evenly coated with the cranberry juice mixture. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to avoid mashing the apples.
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Season and Serve: Stir in the ground cinnamon and nutmeg (if using). Taste and adjust the sweetness or tartness by adding more maple syrup or lemon juice, as needed. Serve immediately or chill for later. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Cranberry Apple Salad:
- Apple Variety: The type of apple you choose will impact the overall taste. Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Gala apples are excellent choices for their sweetness and crisp texture.
- Cranberry Sweetness: Adjust the amount of maple syrup or honey based on the sweetness of your cranberries. Some cranberries are naturally sweeter than others.
- Make it Ahead: This salad tastes even better after a few hours in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld. However, it's best to avoid adding the apples until just before serving to prevent them from browning.
Variations:
- Spiced it Up: Add a pinch of ginger or a dash of cardamom for a warm, spicy twist.
- Citrus Zest: Include the zest of an orange or lemon for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
- Cheese Please: Crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese adds a salty, creamy element.
- Dried Fruit: Toss in some dried cranberries or chopped apricots for added sweetness and texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This is an estimate and will vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 calories
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-40 grams
- Fiber: Approximately 4-6 grams
- Protein: Approximately 2-4 grams
- Fat: Approximately 5-8 grams
This healthy and delicious cranberry apple salad is a versatile dish perfect for any occasion. Its vibrant colors and refreshing flavors make it a welcome addition to your autumn menu. Enjoy the simple pleasures of homemade cooking and savor every bite of this delightful salad!