Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad

I’m excited to share my Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad—a crisp, sweet, and tangy blend of fresh Honeycrisp apples, creamy feta cheese, crunchy nuts, and a light vinaigrette that makes every bite a perfect balance of flavors.

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love this salad because it’s fresh, colorful, and satisfying without being heavy. The sweetness of the apples pairs beautifully with the salty creaminess of the feta, and the nuts add a satisfying crunch. It works equally well as a side dish or a light lunch.

Ingredients

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

• Honeycrisp apples, cored and thinly sliced

• Mixed salad greens (I like arugula and spinach)

• Feta cheese, crumbled

• Walnuts or pecans, toasted

• Red onion, thinly sliced

• Extra virgin olive oil

• Apple cider vinegar

• Honey

• Salt and black pepper

Directions

1. I place the salad greens in a large serving bowl.

2. I layer the sliced Honeycrisp apples, crumbled feta, toasted nuts, and thinly sliced red onion over the greens.

3. In a small bowl, I whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.

4. I drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.

5. I toss gently so the ingredients are evenly coated and the apples stay crisp.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 4 servings

• Prep time: 10–15 minutes

• Total time: 10–15 minutes

Variations

• I sometimes swap feta for goat cheese for a creamier tang.

• I use maple syrup instead of honey for a deeper sweetness.

• I add dried cranberries for a tart, chewy element.

• I mix in grilled chicken to turn it into a heartier meal.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover salad in the refrigerator for up to 1 day, but I keep the dressing separate if I plan to make it ahead so the greens stay fresh. This salad is served cold, so I don’t reheat it.

FAQs

What makes Honeycrisp apples the best choice?

I love Honeycrisps for their sweet-tart flavor and extra crunch, which holds up well in salads.

Can I prepare the apples in advance?

Yes—I toss sliced apples in a little lemon juice to prevent browning if I prep them early.

What type of nuts work best?

I like walnuts or pecans, but almonds also add a great crunch.

Can I make this salad dairy-free?

Yes—I simply leave out the feta or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.

Can I use a different dressing?

Absolutely—I sometimes use a balsamic vinaigrette for a richer, deeper flavor.

Conclusion

I love making Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad because it’s fresh, flavorful, and easy to prepare. It’s my go-to when I want a crisp, tangy salad that pairs beautifully with just about any main dish.