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Apple Feta Spinach Salad Recipe

4.9 from 65 reviews

A fresh and vibrant Apple Feta Spinach Salad featuring crisp apples, tangy feta, toasted pecans, and dried cranberries, all tossed in a sweet and tangy homemade maple cider vinaigrette. Perfect as a light lunch or a refreshing side dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad

  • 5 ounces fresh spinach or spring greens mix
  • 2 small apples, cored and thinly sliced
  • ¼ of a red onion, thinly sliced (about ½ cup)
  • ½ cup pecan halves, toasted
  • ⅔ cup feta crumbles
  • ½ cup dried cranberries

Dressing

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Generous pinch of salt
  • Generous pinch of black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the onion: Optionally soak the thinly sliced red onion in an ice water bath for 10 minutes to mellow its sharp flavor. After soaking, squeeze dry using paper towels.
  2. Assemble the salad: In a large serving bowl, combine the fresh spinach, thinly sliced apples, drained red onion, toasted pecan halves, feta crumbles, and dried cranberries.
  3. Make the dressing: In a mason jar with a tight-fitting lid, add the vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Secure the lid and shake vigorously until fully emulsified.
  4. Toss the salad: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently but thoroughly to ensure everything is well coated.

Notes

  • Soaking red onion in ice water is optional but helps reduce pungency.
  • To toast pecans, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly browned, about 3-5 minutes.
  • This salad is best served fresh but dressing can be made ahead and refrigerated.
  • Substitute apples with pears for a different fruity flavor twist.

Keywords: apple salad, feta salad, spinach salad, healthy salad, fall salad, pecans, dried cranberries, maple vinaigrette