Crisp Apple Walnut Salad with Gravenstein Vinaigrette: A Refreshing Fall Classic

Crisp Apple Walnut Salad with Gravenstein Vinaigrette at The Little Shop of Olive Oils

As the days begin to cool and apple season ramps up, this Crisp Apple Walnut Salad is the perfect way to bring a burst of autumn freshness to your table. The combination of mixed greens, tart apple slices, crisp celery, and lightly toasted walnuts is simple, elegant, and full of seasonal flavor. A sweet-tangy Gravenstein apple balsamic vinaigrette ties it all together beautifully — and optional blue or goat cheese adds a creamy tang for those who like a richer bite.

This salad works wonderfully as a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or even as a starter before a heartier autumn dinner (roasted chicken or pork pair nicely). It’s easy to scale up for guests, and quick to pull together if you keep a bottle of good apple balsamic or fruit‐infused vinegar on hand.

If you want a quicker version, you could even pre-toast the nuts and slice the apple ahead of time, then toss everything with a jar of vinaigrette just before serving. But if you’re assembling from scratch, here’s a recipe kit format that makes it easy to prep and serve.

Crisp Apple Walnut Salad with Gravenstein Vinaigrette

A crisp, refreshing mix of apples, walnuts, celery, and greens tossed in a tangy-sweet Gravenstein Apple Balsamic vinaigrette — the perfect fall salad for any table.

Author
The Little Shop of Olive Oils
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
0 minutes
Servings
4
Category

Salads

Cuisine

American

Ingredients

  • 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or spring mix)
  • 1 Granny Smith apple, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup walnuts, toasted
  • 2 stalks celery, thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup crumbled blue cheese or goat cheese (optional)
  • 3 tbsp Gravenstein Apple Balsamic Vinegar
  • 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil (buttery or mild)
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp honey (optional, for sweetness)
  • Pinch of salt & freshly ground black pepper

Directions

  1. Make the vinaigrette: In a small bowl or jar, whisk (or shake) balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon, honey, salt, and pepper until blended. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  2. Prepare the salad: Place greens in a large bowl or platter. Top with apple slices, celery, and toasted walnuts.
  3. Finish: Drizzle vinaigrette over salad just before serving and toss gently. Sprinkle cheese on top if using. Serve immediately.

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