Looking for a refreshing and vibrant dish that will elevate your meal to new heights? Dive into the delightful world of our "Apple Salad with Lemon Poppy Seed Dressing"! This tantalizing salad combines the crispness of fresh apples with the richness of feta cheese and the crunch of walnuts, all brought together by a zesty lemon poppy seed dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or as a stunning side dish at your next gathering, this recipe is not only quick to prepare—taking just 10 minutes—but it's also a feast for the eyes and the palate. Ready to impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds? Let’s get started!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 2 apples, sliced
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Wash the mixed greens thoroughly under cold running water and pat dry using a clean kitchen towel or salad spinner.
- Rinse the apples and slice them into thin, uniform wedges. For best presentation, consider using a sharp knife to create crisp, even slices.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine olive oil, fresh lemon juice, poppy seeds, and a pinch of salt. Whisk the ingredients together until they form a smooth, well-integrated dressing.
- Place the mixed greens in a large serving bowl, spreading them evenly across the bottom.
- Arrange the apple slices artfully on top of the greens, creating an appealing visual pattern.
- Sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the salad, distributing them evenly to ensure each serving gets a good amount of crunch.
- Crumble the feta cheese over the salad, allowing small chunks to fall naturally across the surface.
- Just before serving, drizzle the lemon poppy seed dressing over the salad, ensuring a light and even coating.
- Gently toss the salad to combine all ingredients, being careful not to bruise the delicate greens or break the apple slices.
- Serve immediately to maintain the crisp texture of the greens and the fresh flavor of the ingredients.
Tips
- Choose the Right Apples: For the best flavor and texture, use a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Fuji and Granny Smith. This combination will add depth to your salad.
- Prep Your Greens: Always wash your mixed greens thoroughly to remove any grit. Pat them dry well to prevent the dressing from becoming diluted.
- Slice Apples with Care: Use a sharp knife to slice your apples into thin wedges. This not only enhances presentation but also ensures even texture in every bite.
- Make the Dressing Ahead: If you’re short on time, prepare the lemon poppy seed dressing in advance and store it in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Toss Gently: When combining the salad, toss gently to avoid bruising the greens and breaking the apple slices. This keeps your salad looking fresh and appealing.
- Serve Immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve the salad right after tossing it with the dressing. This ensures that the greens remain crisp and vibrant.
- Add Your Twist: Feel free to customize this salad! Consider adding dried cranberries for sweetness or swapping feta for goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 15mg
