This Apple Feta Spinach Salad is one of those go-to dishes I turn to when I want something fresh, crisp, and full of contrast. It’s the perfect mix of sweet, salty, and tangy, with crisp apples, creamy feta, and tender spinach tossed in a simple, bright dressing. Whether I’m serving it on its own or pairing it with something heartier, it always adds something special to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this salad brings together bold flavors and textures with minimal effort. The sweetness of the apples, the saltiness of the feta, and the earthiness of the spinach work so well together. It’s vibrant, light, and satisfying without being heavy. Plus, it’s super customizable and always gets rave reviews when I bring it to gatherings or serve it as a side.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh baby spinach
Crisp apples (like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), thinly sliced
Crumbled feta cheese
Red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Dried cranberries or raisins (optional)
Olive oil
Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
Honey or maple syrup
Salt
Black pepper

Directions

I start by washing and drying the spinach and apples. I slice the apples thinly and toss them with a little lemon juice to prevent browning.
In a large bowl, I combine the spinach, sliced apples, feta, and any optional add-ins like red onion, nuts, or dried fruit.
In a small jar or bowl, I whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
I drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss everything gently to combine.
I serve it immediately while the apples are fresh and the spinach is crisp.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4 and takes only 10–15 minutes to prepare from start to finish.

Variations

Sometimes I swap the feta for goat cheese or blue cheese, depending on the flavor profile I’m going for. Pears work beautifully in place of apples, especially with walnuts and a balsamic glaze. I also love adding cooked quinoa or grilled chicken to turn it into a full meal. When I want a bit more richness, I toast the nuts before adding them.

storage/reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh. If I want to prep ahead, I keep the dressing separate and slice the apples right before serving to avoid browning. Once dressed, the salad should be eaten within a few hours. I don’t reheat this—it’s meant to be served chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

What apples are best for this salad?

I like using crisp, slightly tart apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith. They hold their texture and add great flavor contrast.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, I prep all the ingredients ahead but store them separately. I toss everything together with the dressing just before serving.

What dressing pairs well with this salad?

I usually make a simple vinaigrette with olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Balsamic vinaigrette also works well for a richer flavor.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

It can be. I keep the spinach, cheese, and toppings in containers, slice the apples fresh, and store the dressing separately to keep everything crisp.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, I just leave out the feta or use a dairy-free alternative. The salad still has great texture and flavor without it.

Conclusion

This Apple Feta Spinach Salad is my favorite way to bring freshness and balance to any meal. It’s crisp, colorful, and full of flavor with just the right amount of sweetness and tang. Whether I’m enjoying it solo or serving it up alongside dinner, this salad always hits the spot and keeps me coming back for more.