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Easy Cranberry Walnut Salad with Maple Vinaigrette

cranberry walnut salad with maple vinaigrette - featured image
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A quick and easy salad with mixed greens, dried cranberries, toasted walnuts, red onion, and feta cheese, tossed in a sweet-tangy maple vinaigrette. Perfect for weeknights or potlucks, it comes together in about 10 minutes and is always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups mixed salad greens (about 5 ounces)
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground

Instructions

  1. Toast the walnuts (optional but recommended): Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped walnuts and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly golden. Transfer to a plate to cool.
  2. Prepare the red onion: Slice the red onion thinly, about 1/8-inch thick. For a milder flavor, soak slices in cold water for 5 minutes, then drain and pat dry.
  3. Make the maple vinaigrette: In a small bowl or mason jar, combine olive oil, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk vigorously or shake until well combined and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  4. Assemble the salad: Place mixed greens in a large salad bowl. Add dried cranberries, toasted walnuts, and sliced red onion. Pour about half the dressing over the top and toss gently until evenly coated. Add more dressing if needed.
  5. Add the feta cheese: Sprinkle crumbled feta over the salad. Toss very gently once more, or leave feta on top for presentation.
  6. Serve immediately: Transfer to individual plates or serve from the bowl. Best enjoyed right away while greens are crisp and walnuts are crunchy.

Notes

Toast walnuts carefully to avoid burning. Dress salad lightly to prevent sogginess. For make-ahead, store dressing and toppings separately and combine just before serving. Leftover dressing keeps in the fridge for up to a week.

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry walnut salad, maple vinaigrette, quick salad, easy salad, potluck salad, weeknight salad

Find it online: https://ovenmila.com/easy-cranberry-walnut-salad-with-maple-vinaigrette/