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Apple Feta Spinach Salad Recipe

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4.2 from 88 reviews

This vibrant Apple Feta Spinach Salad combines fresh spinach, crisp apples, tangy red onion, toasted pecans, creamy feta, and sweet dried cranberries, all tossed in a deliciously balanced apple cider vinaigrette dressing. Perfect as a refreshing side dish or a light meal, this salad offers a wonderful mix of textures and flavors that are both healthy and satisfying.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

  • 5 ounces fresh spinach or spring greens mix
  • 2 small apples, cored and thinly sliced
  • ¼ of a red onion, thinly sliced (about ½ cup)
  • ½ cup pecan halves, toasted
  • ⅔ cup feta cheese crumbles
  • ½ cup dried cranberries

Dressing Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Generous pinch of salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Salad Base: Rinse and drain the fresh spinach or spring greens thoroughly. Place them in a large salad bowl as the foundation of your salad.
  2. Slice the Produce: Core the apples and slice them thinly to ensure easy eating and balanced flavor. Thinly slice the red onion until you have about half a cup to add a sharp, tangy bite to the salad.
  3. Toast the Pecans: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and toast the pecan halves gently for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they’re fragrant and slightly browned. Set aside to cool.
  4. Combine the Salad Ingredients: Add the sliced apples, red onion, toasted pecans, feta crumbles, and dried cranberries to the bowl with the greens. Gently toss to distribute the ingredients evenly without bruising the greens.
  5. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until fully emulsified and smooth.
  6. Toss and Serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples for the best sweet-tart flavor balance.
  • For a nuttier taste, try substituting walnuts or almonds for the pecans.
  • Maple syrup can be replaced with honey if preferred.
  • Prepare the dressing ahead and keep refrigerated if needed; whisk again before tossing.
  • To keep the apples from browning quickly, toss slices in a little lemon juice before adding to the salad.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Find it online: https://allyumcooks.com/apple-feta-spinach-salad-recipe/