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close up hero of blueberry apple salad with feta and walnuts

Blueberry Apple Salad with Feta and Walnuts

This blueberry apple salad combines mixed greens, juicy blueberries, crisp apples, salty feta, and crunchy walnuts tossed in a bold balsamic dressing. It is easy to make, easy to customize, and perfect for both everyday meals and entertaining.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Optional Cook Time For Candied Walnuts 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American, Italian, Italian-American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
For the Balsamic Dressing
Optional Quick Candied Walnuts

Equipment

  • Large salad bowl: to toss and serve the salad
  • Jar with lid: to shake the dressing
  • Small skillet (optional): if you choose to candy your walnuts
  • Measuring cups and spoons for precise dressing and ingredient amounts
  • Parchment paper (optional): for cooling candied walnuts (optional but helpful)

Method
 

Make the Optional Candied Walnuts
  1. Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add walnuts and toast for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Drizzle in maple syrup and add a pinch of salt.
  3. Stir continuously for 1 to 2 minutes until glossy and lightly caramelized.
  4. Transfer immediately to parchment paper to cool.
Make the Dressing
  1. Add olive oil, balsamic reduction, dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, and salt to a jar fitted with a lid. Shake until smooth and emulsified.
Assemble the Salad
  1. Add mixed greens to a large serving bowl.
  2. Top with blueberries, chopped apple, walnuts, and feta.
  3. Drizzle with dressing just before serving and toss gently to combine.

Video

Notes

  • Greens: Mixed greens keep this salad approachable and easy to shop for. Spinach or a spinach-arugula blend also work well.
  • Cheese options: Feta adds a salty, creamy contrast. Goat cheese works for a tangier finish. Finely grated or shaved parmesan creates a more savory variation.
  • Walnut options: Plain toasted walnuts keep things simple. The quick-candied walnuts add sweet crunch and are highly recommended for entertaining.
  • Make ahead tips: Prep components separately and assemble just before serving to keep the greens crisp.
  • Apple swaps: Granny Smith is best for tart crunch. Honeycrisp or Pink Lady also work well.
  • Protein add-ins: Grilled chicken, rotisserie chicken, prosciutto, or salmon pair well.
  • Dressing consistency: Thin with 1 to 2 tsp water or apple cider vinegar if needed.
  • Italian Seasoning Substitution: If you don't have my Italian seasoning, you can use a store bought version or sub it for 1 tsp dried basil, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, and 1/2 tsp dried thyme.
  • Nutrition (per serving, 4 servings): 320 calories, 27g fat, 16g carbs, 5g protein, 3g fiber. Nutrition information is an estimate. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.