The sweet and crunchy taste of apples makes them a perfect addition to salads, and when paired with a variety of greens, nuts, cheeses, and dressings, they become truly irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a classic combination or something more adventurous, there’s an apple salad out there to suit your taste. In this article, we’ll explore 20 refreshing apple salad recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
From traditional combinations like walnuts and celery to more unexpected pairings like peanuts and kale, these salads showcase the versatility of apples in a new and exciting way. With flavors ranging from sweet and tangy to savory and spicy, there’s something for everyone on this list. So go ahead, get creative, and start mixing up your own apple salad masterpieces!
Classic Waldorf Apple Salad with Walnuts and Celery
This beloved salad recipe combines the sweetness of apples, the crunch of walnuts, and the freshness of celery, all tied together with a tangy dressing. It’s a timeless classic that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or simply as a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized apples, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 stalks celery, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced apples, chopped walnuts, and sliced celery.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the apple mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None needed! This salad is best served chilled, so simply prepare it ahead of time and let it sit in the fridge before serving.
Honeycrisp Apple and Arugula Salad with Goat Cheese
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of Honeycrisp apples with the peppery flavor of arugula, all tied together with creamy goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cups arugula
– 1 large Honeycrisp apple, diced
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine arugula and diced apple.
2. Crumbling the goat cheese into small pieces, scatter it over the salad.
3. If using nuts, sprinkle them over the top.
4. Drizzle the olive oil and apple cider vinegar over the salad, tossing to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (preparation only)
Caramelized Apple and Kale Salad with Pecans
This salad combines the natural sweetness of caramelized apples with the earthy flavor of kale, crunchy pecans, and a hint of tanginess from crumbled blue cheese. A perfect blend of textures and tastes for a cozy fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced
– 4 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/2 cup pecan halves
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, combine sliced apples, olive oil, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until apples are caramelized (about 20 minutes).
3. In a separate pan, toast pecan halves over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until fragrant.
4. In a large bowl, combine chopped kale, caramelized apples, toasted pecans, and crumbled blue cheese (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Apple Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
A refreshing mix of sweet and tangy, this salad combines crisp spinach leaves with tender apple slices and a drizzle of rich balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 large apple, cored and thinly sliced (such as Granny Smith)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or chopped walnuts for added texture
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves and apple slices.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar until well combined.
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with crumbled feta cheese or chopped walnuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Simply assemble and serve.
Asian-Inspired Apple Slaw with Peanut Dressing
A refreshing twist on traditional slaws, this Asian-inspired recipe combines the sweetness of apples with the savory flavors of peanuts and soy sauce. Perfect for a light and crunchy side dish or as a topping for your favorite stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine apple slices, red cabbage, and cilantro.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and grated ginger until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the apple mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Autumn Apple Salad with Cranberries and Candied Pecans
Celebrate the flavors of autumn with this refreshing salad featuring crisp apples, tart cranberries, and crunchy candied pecans. Perfect as a light lunch or as a side dish for your holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, diced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 cup candied pecans (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until cranberries have popped.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced apples and candied pecans.
3. Pour the cooked cranberry mixture over the apple mixture and toss to combine.
4. Drizzle with apple cider vinegar and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh thyme or rosemary if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Yogurt Apple Salad with Cinnamon and Almonds
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of apples with the tanginess of Greek yogurt, all topped off with crunchy almonds and a hint of warm cinnamon. Perfect for a light and satisfying snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 large apple, diced
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt and granulated sugar until smooth.
2. Add the diced apple to the yogurt mixture and stir until well combined.
3. Sprinkle the cinnamon over the top of the salad and stir gently.
4. Fold in the sliced almonds.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with additional almonds if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep) + 30 minutes (chill)
Granny Smith Apple and Quinoa Salad with Lemon Dressing
A refreshing twist on traditional quinoa salads, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of Granny Smith apples with the nutty flavor of cooked quinoa, all tied together with a zesty lemon dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 Granny Smith apples, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, diced apples, and chopped parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
4. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Quinoa cooking time: 15-20 minutes
– Total preparation time: 25-30 minutes
Apple and Beet Salad with Feta and Mint
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of apples and beets with the tanginess of feta cheese, all tied together with a hint of fresh mint. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium beets
– 1 large apple, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the beets for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Let the beets cool, then peel and dice them into bite-sized pieces.
4. In a large bowl, combine the diced apple, roasted beets, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped mint.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and white wine vinegar, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Apple and Jicama Slaw with Lime Dressing
This refreshing slaw combines the crunch of jicama with the sweetness of apples, all wrapped up in a spicy and tangy lime dressing. Perfect for topping tacos or grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups jicama, peeled and grated
– 1 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 diced jalapeños or serrano peppers, depending on desired heat level
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine jicama, apples, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
2. Add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to taste.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (mostly hands-off time)
Apple, Fennel, and Radicchio Salad with Shaved Parmesan
Harvest Fresh: Apple, Fennel, and Radicchio Salad with Shaved Parmesan
This autumn-inspired salad combines the sweetness of apples, the crunch of fennel, the bitterness of radicchio, and the nutty flavor of shaved Parmesan. Perfect as a light lunch or dinner, this salad is sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 apples (Granny Smith or Fuji work well), peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 large fennel bulb, thinly sliced
– 4 cups radicchio leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, fennel, and radicchio.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and apple cider vinegar; season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Top the salad with shaved Parmesan cheese.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Maple-Glazed Apple and Brussels Sprouts Salad
This sweet and savory salad is a perfect blend of autumn flavors, featuring crispy Brussels sprouts, tender apples, and a hint of maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large apple, peeled and diced (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: crumbled blue cheese or chopped walnuts for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
3. In a large skillet, heat maple syrup over medium heat. Add diced apple and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly caramelized.
4. Combine roasted Brussels sprouts and glazed apples in a bowl. Toss to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with crumbled blue cheese or chopped walnuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Apple and Pomegranate Salad with Citrus Dressing
Celebrate the flavors of fall with this refreshing salad, featuring crisp apples, juicy pomegranate seeds, and a zesty citrus dressing.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, diced
– 1 cup pomegranate arils
– 1/4 cup fresh orange segments
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the apple and pomegranate.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the citrus dressing over the apple mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Just before serving, garnish with orange segments and fresh mint leaves (if using).
7. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Warm Bacon and Apple Salad with Mustard Vinaigrette
Warm Bacon and Apple Salad with Mustard Vinaigrette Recipe
Elevate your salad game with this sweet and savory combination of crispy bacon, tender apples, and tangy mustard vinaigrette. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 2-3 crisp apples (such as Granny Smith), peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lay the bacon slices on it.
3. Bake the bacon for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
4. In a large bowl, combine the diced apples and warm bacon.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey until well combined.
6. Pour the vinaigrette over the apple-bacon mixture and toss to coat.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai-Style Green Apple Salad with Chili and Herbs
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of green apples with the spiciness of Thai chilies, all wrapped up in a burst of fresh herbs. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 green apples, diced
– 1/4 cup mixed Thai chilies (such as bird’s eye and serrano), seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup cilantro leaves and stems, chopped
– 1/4 cup mint leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced apples, Thai chilies, cilantro, and mint.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce and lime juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the apple mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Apple and Endive Salad with Blue Cheese and Walnuts
This crisp and refreshing salad combines the sweetness of apples, the crunch of endive, and the pungency of blue cheese, all tied together with toasted walnuts. A perfect side dish for your next fall gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 large apples, peeled and diced
– 1 head of endive, separated into leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (such as Gorgonzola or Roquefort)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced apples and endive leaves.
2. Crumble the blue cheese over the top of the salad.
3. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts evenly over the salad.
4. Drizzle the olive oil and apple cider vinegar over the salad, tossing to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just assemble and serve!)
Mango and Apple Salad with Coconut-Lime Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of mango and apples with the tanginess of coconut and lime, perfect for a light and flavorful meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 apple, cored and diced (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mango and apple.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together coconut, lime juice, and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the fruit mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep time) + serving
Smoked Gouda and Apple Salad with Honey Mustard
This sweet and savory salad combines the creaminess of smoked Gouda cheese, the crunch of crisp apples, and a tangy honey mustard dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or as a side dish for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup Smoked Gouda cheese, crumbled
– 2 Granny Smith apples, diced
– 1/4 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 2 tbsp Honey Mustard dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, apple dice, and crumbled smoked Gouda cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey mustard dressing ingredients until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Apple and Cucumber Salad with Dill and Yogurt
This light and refreshing salad is perfect for warm weather or as a side dish any time of the year. The combination of crisp apples, cool cucumbers, tangy yogurt, and bright dill creates a delightful flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 2 large apples, diced
– 2 medium cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced apples and thinly sliced cucumbers.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Pour the yogurt mixture over the apple-cucumber mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. Stir in the chopped fresh dill.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-cook salad!
Tart Green Apple and Celery Root Salad with Lemon
A refreshing and tangy salad that combines the sweetness of green apples with the earthiness of celery root, perfectly balanced by a squeeze of lemon juice.
Ingredients:
– 2 large green apples, cored and diced
– 1 large celery root, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced apples and celery root.
2. Squeeze the lemon juice over the mixture and toss gently to coat.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss again to combine.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a delicious array of apple salads! From classic combinations like Waldorf and spinach, to international inspirations like Thai-Style Green Apple Salad, these 20 refreshing recipes are sure to please. Whether you’re in the mood for sweet and crunchy, tangy and savory, or spicy and zesty, there’s an apple salad here to suit your taste. With a variety of textures, flavors, and ingredients, you’ll find the perfect recipe to add some crunch and excitement to your meal routine.
