Looking for a light, nutrient-packed salad that bursts with flavor and texture? This Quick & Delicious Apple Salad combines crisp apples, juicy grapes, crunchy walnuts, sweet cranberries, and creamy feta, all tossed in a tangy Greek yogurt dressing. It’s perfect as a side dish, quick lunch, or holiday favorite. Whether you’re on a clean eating plan, need a heart-healthy salad, or want something fast and flavorful, this apple salad hits the spot.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Salad:
Quick and easy — ready in 10 minutes
Packed with fiber, antioxidants, and protein
Sweet, salty, creamy, and crunchy all in one bite
Perfect for meal prep, lunchboxes, or holiday menus
Naturally gluten-free and easy to make vegetarian
Ingredients Breakdown
Fruits & Add-Ins:
Apples (3 medium): Crisp and naturally sweet, they form the base of the salad.
Seedless Grapes (1 cup): Juicy and fresh, adding natural sweetness and a pop of color.
Chopped Walnuts (½ cup): Offer crunch and heart-healthy fats.
Dried Cranberries (¼ cup): Add a chewy, tart-sweet contrast.
Crumbled Feta Cheese (¼ cup): Brings creamy, salty richness to balance the sweetness.
Dressing:
Plain Greek Yogurt (¼ cup): A healthier, protein-packed base for the dressing.
Honey (1 tbsp): Naturally sweetens the salad.
Lemon Juice (1 tbsp): Brightens the flavors and prevents the apples from browning.
Salt & Pepper: Just a pinch enhances the overall flavor profile
Tips and Tricks:
Prevent browning: Toss apple slices in lemon juice before adding to the salad.
Want a dairy-free version? Use coconut yogurt and skip the feta.
Make it vegan: Swap honey for maple syrup and use plant-based yogurt.
Add protein: Toss in grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas for a complete meal.
Use what you have: Pecans or almonds work great instead of walnuts.
Variations and Customizations:
Apple Pecan Salad: Swap walnuts with candied pecans for extra sweetness.
Fall Harvest Version: Add pomegranate seeds, pear slices, and pumpkin seeds.
Savory Twist: Add arugula, avocado, and red onions for a more complex flavor.
Pairing Suggestions:
Serve with: Roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or a warm bowl of soup.
Perfect for: Brunch spreads, Thanksgiving, potlucks, and meal prep lunches.
Storage Instructions:
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
If making ahead, add dressing right before serving to prevent sogginess.
Do not freeze — the fruit and yogurt dressing do not thaw well.
Popular Questions:
Can I use a different cheese instead of feta?
Yes! Goat cheese or blue cheese are great substitutes, depending on your taste.
What type of apples are best for this salad?
Crisp and slightly sweet apples like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji work best.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prep all ingredients and store separately. Mix together with the dressing just before serving.
Apple Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Wash and chop the apples into small pieces.
- Drizzle apples with lemon juice and mix.
- In a bowl, mix yogurt or mayonnaise with honey and salt.
- Add celery and walnuts to apples.
- Pour dressing over the mixture.
- Gently stir until evenly coated. Chill briefly and serve.
