Looking to elevate your salad game and impress your guests with a delightful dish that bursts with flavor? Look no further than this Apple Poppy Seed Salad! In just 15 minutes, you can create a vibrant and refreshing salad that combines the crispness of mixed greens, the sweetness of fresh apples, and the crunch of toasted walnuts, all harmonized with the creamy tang of feta cheese. Drizzled with a zesty balsamic vinaigrette and adorned with nutty poppy seeds, this salad is not just a side dish; it’s a showstopper that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Dive into this easy recipe that promises to bring a touch of gourmet flair to your dining table!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 apple, sliced
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions
- Wash the mixed greens thoroughly under cool running water and pat dry using a clean kitchen towel or salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
- Core the apple and slice it thinly into uniform half-moon or quarter-moon shapes, ensuring slices are approximately 1/8 inch thick for consistent texture.
- Toast the chopped walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning, until they become fragrant and lightly golden.
- Place the clean, dry mixed greens in a large serving bowl as the salad base.
- Arrange the thinly sliced apple pieces evenly across the mixed greens.
- Sprinkle the toasted walnuts over the salad to add crunch and nutty flavor.
- Distribute the crumbled feta cheese across the salad surface for a creamy, tangy element.
- Generously dust poppy seeds over the entire salad for visual appeal and subtle nutty undertones.
- Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette evenly across the salad just before serving to prevent wilting of the greens.
- Gently toss all ingredients to ensure even coating and distribution of flavors.
- Serve immediately to maintain the salad's crisp texture and fresh appearance.
Tips
- Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh, organic mixed greens and crisp apples. Honeycrisp or Fuji apples work particularly well for their sweetness and crunch.
- Toast the Walnuts: Toasting the walnuts enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch. Keep a close eye on them while toasting to avoid burning.
- Slice Uniformly: Aim for uniform apple slices to ensure consistent texture and presentation. A mandoline slicer can help achieve even slices.
- Dress at the Right Time: To keep your greens fresh and crisp, add the balsamic vinaigrette just before serving. This prevents wilting and maintains the salad's vibrant appearance.
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to get creative! Add other ingredients like dried cranberries, pear slices, or even grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
- Serving Tip: Serve the salad immediately after tossing to enjoy the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg
