Description
When we talk about an Apple Cheddar Fall Harvest Salad, we are referring to a dish that prioritizes seasonal integrity. It is a modern American salad that moves away from the heavy, mayonnaise-based fruit salads of the past and instead focuses on raw, vibrant ingredients. The core of the recipe lies in the contrast between the fruit and the dairy. Apples provide a refreshing juiciness and a natural acidity, while the sharp cheddar offers a savory, umami-rich counterpoint.
Ingredients
Salad
6 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
2 crisp apples (Honeycrisp or Fuji), thinly sliced
¾ cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed or shaved
⅓ cup toasted pecans or walnuts
¼ cup dried cranberries
¼ small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
Maple Dijon Dressing
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp maple syrup
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Make the dressing
Whisk olive oil, vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
2️⃣ Assemble the salad
In a large bowl, combine greens, apples, cheddar, nuts, cranberries, and onion.
3️⃣ Toss & serve
Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss gently just before serving.
Notes
This Apple Cheddar Fall Harvest Salad brings together crisp apples, sharp cheddar, and warm autumn flavors for a perfectly balanced bite. It’s a wonderful side for cozy dinners or holiday gatherings, adding freshness and color to the table while staying light and satisfying.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossed
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1½ cups
- Calories: ~220 kcal
Keywords: Autumn apple and cheese salad, harvest greens with cheddar, maple dijon apple salad, seasonal fall fruit salad, crisp apple cheddar salad bowl.