Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad (Crisp, Sweet & Savory Fall Favorite)

This Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad captures everything we love about fall: crisp apples, toasted nuts, sweet dried cranberries, and salty feta—all tossed in a tangy homemade vinaigrette. It’s light yet satisfying, easy to assemble, and makes a perfect starter or side for cozy dinners, Thanksgiving spreads, or weekday lunches.

Using Honeycrisp apples—known for their juicy crunch and perfect balance of sweet and tart—this salad combines fresh seasonal produce with flavorful textures in every bite. It’s a refreshing contrast to the rich, heavy dishes often served in cooler months and fits beautifully into both casual and elegant menus.

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Ingredients Overview

Let’s look at the key players that make this salad shine, both in flavor and nutrition.

Honeycrisp Apples

These apples are ideal for salads. Their crisp texture holds up well, and their sweet-tart balance pairs perfectly with salty cheese and tangy dressing. Slice them thinly or into matchsticks for the best bite.

Mixed Greens or Arugula

A fresh, peppery base. Baby spinach, kale, or a spring mix also work well. Arugula adds a spicy bite that contrasts the sweetness of the fruit.

Feta Cheese

Salty, creamy, and crumbly, feta brings richness and tang that ties everything together. Goat cheese can be swapped for a softer, more spreadable option.

Candied or Toasted Pecans/Walnuts

Nuts provide crunch and warmth. Toasting enhances their flavor, while candied pecans add a sweet layer that complements the apples.

Dried Cranberries

Sweet and chewy, these bring texture and autumn flair. You can also use dried cherries or pomegranate seeds for variation.

Red Onion (Optional)

Thinly sliced red onion adds sharpness and depth, balancing the sweeter elements. Use sparingly for a milder touch.

Homemade Apple Cider Vinaigrette

A zesty-sweet dressing that complements every ingredient. Made with apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup or honey, and olive oil.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

This salad comes together in minutes—just prep your ingredients, whisk the dressing, and toss before serving.

1. Toast the Nuts

• In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently.

• Once fragrant, remove from heat and let cool.

• Optional: toss with 1 tsp maple syrup and a pinch of cinnamon for a candied effect.

2. Make the Vinaigrette

In a small jar or bowl, whisk together:

• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey

• ¼ tsp salt + black pepper to taste

• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  Shake or whisk until emulsified and set aside.

3. Slice the Apples

• Core and thinly slice 2 medium Honeycrisp apples.

• Toss in a few drops of lemon juice if preparing in advance to prevent browning.

4. Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl or platter, layer:

• 6 cups mixed greens or arugula

• Apple slices

• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese

• Toasted nuts

• ¼ cup dried cranberries

• Optional: ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced

5. Dress and Serve

• Drizzle vinaigrette over the salad just before serving.

• Gently toss or serve dressing on the side.

• Top with additional feta or nuts as a garnish.

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Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Make It a Main Dish

• Add grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or sliced hard-boiled eggs for protein

• Serve over cooked farro or quinoa for a grain bowl variation

Swap the Cheese

• Use goat cheese for a creamier texture

• Try blue cheese for more bite

• Vegan? Use a plant-based feta substitute or omit entirely

Nut-Free Option

• Replace nuts with roasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds (pepitas) for crunch

Fruit Variations

• Use Bartlett pears, red grapes, or persimmons in place of apples

• Add fresh pomegranate arils for color and tang

Make-Ahead Tips

• Slice apples and toss with lemon juice

• Keep dressing separate until ready to serve

• Toast nuts in advance and store in an airtight container

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

This salad is as versatile as it is beautiful, making it a go-to for any fall meal or festive gathering.

Best Served:

• Chilled or at room temperature

• Lightly dressed—don’t overdress to keep it crisp

• On a large platter for holiday-style presentation

Perfect For:

• Thanksgiving dinner starter

• Autumn brunch or lunch parties

• Holiday potlucks

• Light weekday dinners with warm bread or soup

• Romantic dinners with roasted chicken or pork tenderloin

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Nutritional & Health Notes

This salad delivers both flavor and functional nutrients, making it an ideal balance between indulgent and wholesome.

Health Benefits:

• Apples: High in fiber and antioxidants, great for digestion and immunity

• Leafy greens: Full of vitamins A, C, and K

• Feta: Adds calcium and protein in moderate amounts

• Olive oil vinaigrette: Healthy monounsaturated fats and anti-inflammatory compounds

• Nuts: Rich in heart-healthy fats, fiber, and magnesium

Lower in calories than creamy salads and easy to customize for different dietary needs.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What apples work best if I can’t find Honeycrisp?

Try Fuji, Pink Lady, or Gala apples—they’re similarly crisp and sweet. Avoid soft varieties like Red Delicious.

2. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes—with a few tricks:

• Slice apples and toss in lemon juice

• Keep dressing separate

• Assemble just before serving for best texture

3. Can I use bottled vinaigrette?

Homemade is best for flavor, but a good-quality apple cider vinaigrette or balsamic dressing works in a pinch.

4. Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes—as long as all packaged ingredients (like nuts or dressing) are certified gluten-free.

5. Can I make this vegan?

Yes. Skip the feta or use plant-based cheese. Make sure the dressing uses maple syrup instead of honey.

6. How do I prevent the apples from browning?

Toss the sliced apples in lemon juice or soak briefly in water with a splash of vinegar or citrus juice.

7. What proteins pair well with this salad?

Grilled chicken, turkey, tofu, or white beans are all great. It’s also fantastic alongside pork chops or a savory squash dish.

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