Cranberry walnut salad is a classic dish that'll transport you back to cozy holiday gatherings. Juicy cranberries and crunchy walnuts come together for a mouthwatering blend of sweet and tart. Top it off with creamy feta, a dreamy vinaigrette, and a sprinkle of seasonings – yum! Prep it ahead for convenience, then serve chilled to really let the flavors shine. This nutritious salad makes a wonderful side or light main course that'll impress your friends and family. Sound enticing? Keep reading to uncover all the delicious details behind this timeless crowd-pleaser. Looking to elevate this salad even more? Try adding a homemade cranberry sauce recipe for an extra burst of flavor. The tangy sweetness of the cranberry sauce will complement the nutty crunch of the walnuts and the creaminess of the feta perfectly. Plus, making your own cranberry sauce allows you to customize the level of sweetness and tartness to your liking. It’s the perfect finishing touch to take this classic cranberry walnut salad to the next level.
Key Takeaways
- Cranberry Walnut Salad is a classic dish that originated from Native American tribes and has become a staple at holiday gatherings.
- The salad features a combination of tart cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and creamy feta cheese, dressed in a tangy vinaigrette.
- This versatile dish can be served as a side or a light main course, appealing to a wide audience.
- Cranberry Walnut Salad is a nutritious option, providing healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants from its key ingredients.
- The salad can be prepared in advance, making it a convenient choice for potlucks, picnics, or family meals.
History
Cranberry walnut salad has a long and storied history, dating back centuries. In fact, this delightful dish has been enjoyed by people all around the world for generations! The tangy sweetness of the cranberries, combined with the crunchy, nutty flavor of the walnuts, has made cranberry walnut salad a beloved classic.
You may be surprised to learn that the origins of this salad can be traced back to Native American tribes, who prized the tart, ruby-red cranberries that grew wild in their lands. They'd often mix these berries with nuts and other natural ingredients to create tasty, nutritious meals.
Over time, the recipe evolved and spread, eventually becoming a staple at holiday gatherings and family celebrations.
Today, cranberry walnut salad remains a cherished favorite, bringing back memories of cozy dinners and special occasions. Whether you enjoy it as a side dish or a refreshing snack, this timeless treat is sure to delight your taste buds and warm your heart.
Recipe
Cranberry Walnut Salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that combines the tangy sweetness of cranberries with the rich nuttiness of walnuts. This salad is perfect as a side dish or a light main course, and it's a great way to incorporate some healthy ingredients into your meal.
The combination of the crunchy walnuts and the chewy cranberries creates a wonderful texture that's both satisfying and enjoyable. The dressing, made with a blend of olive oil, vinegar, and a touch of sweetness, ties all the flavors together and complements the other ingredients perfectly.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Mixed greens or spinach (optional)
Instructions:
In a large salad bowl, combine the cranberries, walnuts, and feta cheese. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
If desired, serve the salad on a bed of mixed greens or spinach.
When preparing this dish, it's important to use fresh or frozen cranberries for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen cranberries, be sure to thaw them before adding them to the salad.
Additionally, you can adjust the sweetness of the dressing to your liking by adding more or less honey. This salad can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 2 days, making it a great option for meal prepping or entertaining.
Cooking Steps
First, you'll want to rinse and dry the cranberries to get them nice and fresh.
Next, toast the walnuts in a skillet until they're fragrant and golden brown.
Then, simply mix the cranberries and walnuts together in a bowl.
Step 1. Rinse and Dry Cranberries
Begin by thoroughly rinsing the cranberries under cool running water. This helps remove any dirt or debris that may be clinging to their vibrant red skins.
Once they're all nice and clean, you'll want to grab a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to gently pat the cranberries dry. Don't rub them too hard – you want to preserve their delicate texture.
With your freshly washed and dried cranberries ready to go, you can now move on to the next step. Tossing the cranberries with the other salad ingredients will be a breeze.
The sweet-tart flavor of the cranberries will complement the earthy walnuts beautifully, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
Get ready to wow your family and friends with this gorgeous and delicious Cranberry Walnut Salad!
Step 2. Toast Walnuts in Skillet
To toast the walnuts, you'll want to use a skillet. Place the skillet over medium heat on your stovetop.
Once the skillet is nice and warm, add the walnuts. You'll need to keep a close eye on them, stirring frequently, so they don't burn.
As the walnuts toast, you'll start to smell their delicious nutty aroma filling the air. This means they're getting nice and golden brown.
After about 5 minutes, the walnuts should be perfectly toasted. Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the walnuts to a plate or bowl to cool.
Toasting the walnuts brings out their natural oils and intensifies their flavor, making them the perfect crunchy addition to your cranberry walnut salad.
Now that you've got your toasted walnuts ready, you can move on to assembling the rest of the salad.
Step 3. Mix Cranberries and Walnuts
With your toasted walnuts ready, it's time to combine them with the cranberries. In a large mixing bowl, pour in the vibrant, ruby-red cranberries. Their tart, tangy aroma instantly fills the air, making your mouth water in anticipation.
Next, add the warm, crunchy walnuts you just toasted to perfection. The rich, buttery nuts contrast beautifully with the cranberries' bold flavor.
Using a wooden spoon, gently mix the cranberries and walnuts together until they're evenly distributed. As you stir, you can almost hear the satisfying crunch with each turn of the bowl. The colors dance together, creating a visually stunning display of autumn's bounty.
With the cranberries and walnuts now combined, you're one step closer to enjoying this delightful salad. The sweet-tart flavors and varied textures are sure to delight your taste buds.
Get ready to savor the perfect blend of cranberry and walnut in every bite!
Step 4. Dress Salad With Vinaigrette
Now that you've expertly combined the cranberries and walnuts, it's time to dress the salad with a tantalizing vinaigrette. In a small bowl, whisk together some olive oil, balsamic vinegar, a pinch of salt, and a dash of pepper.
The vinaigrette should have a lovely balance of sweet and tangy flavors that will complement the tart cranberries and crunchy walnuts perfectly.
Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad, using just enough to lightly coat the greens. Gently toss the salad with your hands or two forks, making sure every bite is infused with the delicious dressing.
The vibrant red cranberries will pop against the crisp greens, while the toasted walnuts add a satisfying crunch. With each forkful, you'll experience a burst of refreshing flavors that will have your taste buds dancing with delight.
Get ready to savor the perfect blend of sweet, tart, and nutty goodness in every bite of this Cranberry Walnut Salad.
Step 5. Chill Salad Before Serving
After dressing the salad with the vinaigrette, chill the Cranberry Walnut Salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This time in the fridge will allow all the flavors to meld together and the ingredients to become nice and chilled.
You'll get the perfect balance of tart cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and the tangy vinaigrette.
Once the salad is nice and cool, it's ready to serve. Scoop it into bowls or plates and enjoy! The bright red cranberries will pop against the leafy greens, making it a beautiful addition to any meal.
The walnuts add a nutty crunch that pairs perfectly with the soft, tender lettuce. Each bite will be a delightful mix of sweet, tart, and savory.
Chilling the salad is a simple step, but it makes all the difference. Your friends and family will love the refreshing and flavorful Cranberry Walnut Salad.
It's the perfect side dish or light main course for any occasion.
Final Thoughts
The Cranberry Walnut Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that can elevate any meal. The combination of tart cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and crisp lettuce creates a harmonious balance that's sure to delight your taste buds.
Whether you're serving it as a side dish or enjoying it as a light main course, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that's perfect for any occasion.
After chilling the salad, it's time to savor its refreshing goodness. The vibrant colors and inviting presentation will make your mouth water in anticipation.
As you take the first bite, you'll be met with a burst of tangy-sweetness and a satisfying crunch that's simply irresistible. The nutty flavor of the walnuts perfectly complements the tangy cranberries, creating a flavor profile that's both familiar and exciting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does Cranberry Walnut Salad Last in the Fridge?
Typically, perishable salads last 3-5 days in the fridge. However, the exact shelf life depends on the ingredients and how it's stored. Check for any signs of spoilage before enjoying the salad to ensure it's still fresh and safe to eat.
Can I Substitute Other Nuts for the Walnuts?
Yes, you can substitute other nuts for the walnuts. Pecans, almonds, or cashews would all work well and add a different flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust the quantity to your taste preferences.
What Is the Best Way to Toast the Walnuts?
To toast the walnuts, you can either place them in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly browned, or bake them on a baking sheet at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Can I Make Cranberry Walnut Salad Ahead of Time?
You can absolutely make this salad ahead of time. Simply prepare the ingredients, store them separately, and assemble right before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together while keeping the textures fresh and crisp.
Is Cranberry Walnut Salad Gluten-Free?
Certainly! Cranberry walnut salad can be a gluten-free dish, as long as you don't use any ingredients that contain gluten. Just be sure to check the labels of your components to ensure they're all gluten-free.
Rachel is all about nostalgic comfort food with a modern twist. She brings the flavors of classic American diners to Cook if Ya, with her takes on burgers, fries, and milkshakes. Rachel’s love for simple, hearty meals brings a bit of retro flair to the table, reminding us all of the joys of classic diner dishes.
