Sweet and Salty Candy Apple Salad

Name: Sweet and Salty Candy Apple Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large apples, cored and chopped; 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped; 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 3 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making this Sweet and Salty Candy Apple Salad when the craving for something fresh yet indulgent strikes. The combination of crisp apples, crunchy nuts, and a sweet dressing creates a delightful contrast of flavors and textures in every bite. Preparing this salad only takes a few minutes, and it’s perfect for gatherings or just a treat for yourself. I find that the mix of sweet and salty keeps everyone coming back for more, making it a new favorite at our table.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-27T09:17:27.806Z

I remember the first time I made this Sweet and Salty Candy Apple Salad for a picnic with friends. Everyone was intrigued by the unique combination, and I didn’t think it would be such a hit! I decided to add a hint of cinnamon to the dressing, which elevated the flavors and made it even more special. It was the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch that left us craving more.

Since then, I've experimented with different nuts and dressings, and I’ve found that toasting the nuts beforehand amplifies their flavor significantly. It’s a simple step that enhances the overall experience of the salad, making it not just a side dish but a star on its own!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Refreshing crunch of apples paired with savory nuts
A delightful blend of sweet and salty flavors
Quick to prepare for any occasion

      

Understanding Ingredient Roles

Each component in this Sweet and Salty Candy Apple Salad plays a vital role in achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures. For instance, the apples not only add a refreshing crunch but their natural sweetness complements the tangy feta cheese beautifully. Choosing a variety of apples, such as Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness, can significantly impact the overall flavor profile. This versatility allows you to customize the salad to your taste preference or seasonal availability.

Nuts like walnuts or pecans contribute a savory element while adding healthy fats, which help create a more satisfying dish. If you have an allergy or simply prefer a different texture, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds are excellent alternatives that maintain the crunchiness. Additionally, using toasted nuts enhances their flavor, giving the salad an extra layer of complexity. Toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes or until they start to smell fragrant.

Tips for Perfect Preparation

When it comes to making the dressing, achieving the right consistency is key for proper coating of the salad ingredients. Start with room temperature mayonnaise to ensure it mixes easily with honey and other liquids. If the dressing seems too thick, whisk in a teaspoon or two of water or additional lemon juice until it reaches a drizzle-worthy consistency. This will help ensure your salad is evenly dressed without being too heavy.

To prevent the apples from browning after chopping, consider tossing them with a little lemon juice immediately after cutting. This not only maintains their vibrant appearance but also enhances the overall freshness of your salad. If you're preparing the salad ahead of time, keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to maintain the crispness of the apples and nuts.

Ingredients

For the Salad

2 large apples, cored and chopped
1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped
1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

Mix the salad and dressing ingredients thoroughly before serving.

Instructions

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, lemon juice, and cinnamon until smooth.

Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the chopped apples, walnuts, raisins, and feta cheese.

Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine, ensuring everything is well coated.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the salad immediately as a crunchy side or a refreshing snack.

Enjoy your Sweet and Salty Candy Apple Salad!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a splash of apple cider vinegar to the dressing.

Make-Ahead and Storage

If you're looking to prepare this salad in advance, it's best to store the components separately to maintain freshness. You can chop the apples and nuts and keep them stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before assembly. Combine the dried fruits and feta in another container, and hold off on mixing everything until just before serving to prevent sogginess.

The dressing can also be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may thicken when chilled. This allows for easy assembly when you're ready to enjoy the salad, whether it's for a quick lunch or a gathering with friends.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Feel free to get creative with this salad! For a bit of added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped celery or green onions for a pop of freshness and an additional crunch. You could also mix in a handful of spinach or mixed greens for a heartier salad base that increases the nutritional value.

Serving this salad as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish provides a nicely balanced meal. Alternatively, you might serve it as a topping on a bed of greens, drizzled with extra dressing for an elegant presentation. A sprinkle of sesame seeds can also add an interesting visual touch, achieving a beautiful finishing flair.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of nut?

Absolutely! Almonds or cashews can be great alternatives.

→ How can I make this salad vegan?

Replace the mayonnaise with a vegan option and omit the feta cheese.

→ What type of apples work best?

I recommend using tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice contrast.

→ Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

It’s best to prepare it right before serving to keep the apples crunchy.