Are you looking for a quick and healthy meal that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further! This sweet apple salad recipe is the perfect solution for a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or even a simple yet delicious dinner. It's incredibly easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is packed with vitamins and antioxidants. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest – simple, delicious, and satisfying. Get ready to experience a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors that will leave you wanting more!
Ingredients:
- 2 large crisp apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala are recommended), cored and thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries or chopped raisins
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, for a salty kick)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for added crunch)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
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Prepare the apples: Wash and core the apples thoroughly. Using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer, thinly slice the apples to prevent browning and to ensure even cooking.
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Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the sliced apples, dried cranberries (or raisins), feta cheese (if using), and walnuts (or pecans, if using).
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Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, maple syrup (or honey), cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
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Dress the salad: Pour the dressing over the apple mixture and toss gently to coat evenly. Be careful not to overmix, as this can cause the apples to break down.
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Chill and serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This also helps to prevent the apples from browning further. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- Prevent browning: To keep your apples from browning too quickly, toss them with a little lemon juice immediately after slicing.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of ginger or nutmeg for a warm, aromatic twist.
- Add greens: For a heartier salad, incorporate baby spinach or mixed greens.
- Make it vegan: Omit the feta cheese and use agave nectar instead of maple syrup or honey.
- Fruit variations: Experiment with other fruits like pears, grapes, or blueberries.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe’s nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size. However, a general estimate per serving is approximately:
- Calories: 200-250
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Protein: 3-5g
This sweet apple salad is a delicious and healthy option for a quick meal or snack. It’s perfect for those seeking easy recipes, healthy meals, or quick dinner ideas. It's also a fantastic addition to potlucks or picnics. Enjoy this delightful and refreshing salad! It's one of the best recipes for a simple, yet flavorful, addition to any meal!