Let’s set the scene: You’re craving a salad, but not just any salad. You want an apple salad—fresh, crisp, and loaded with walnuts, spinach, and the kind of maple dressing that makes you rethink everything you know about “healthy food.” Sound familiar? Welcome to your new obsession.
Not kidding: the first time I tried this apple walnut spinach salad with maple dressing, I realized it was the answer to every “boring salad” rant I’ve ever had. Who knew you could love spinach this much, or that maple dressing could literally steal the show?
If you think salad is just a sad bowl of greens, this recipe will completely change your mind. And honestly, IMO, everyone should have a go-to salad like this in their back pocket—especially when apples are in season and you want to impress your taste buds (or a table full of friends).
Why You’ll Love Apple Walnut Spinach Salad with Maple Dressing
Let’s be honest—most salads are forgettable. This one? Not a chance.
- Sweet, crisp apples bring that juicy crunch and pair perfectly with tender spinach.
- Walnuts (especially when toasted) add earthy depth and a hearty bite.
- Spinach is mild and packed with nutrients—way better than limp iceberg lettuce, FYI.
- Maple dressing? A warm, sweet, slightly tangy drizzle that transforms simple ingredients into something you’ll crave all week.
- And let’s not forget: This is a salad that actually feels like a treat.
Trust me, if you bring this to a fall potluck or holiday dinner, you’ll be that person—the one everyone asks for the recipe.
The Star Ingredients (No Weird Additives, Promise!)
You only need a handful of real, easy-to-find ingredients. Here’s why they work:
- Fresh baby spinach (or mixed greens)
- Sweet apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala)
- Toasted walnuts
- Dried cranberries (optional, but highly recommended)
- Red onion (optional for a little kick)
- Feta cheese (optional, but adds creamy tang)
- Homemade maple dressing: maple syrup, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt & pepper
Side note: Allergic to walnuts? Try pecans or even pumpkin seeds! Want to keep it vegan? Just skip the cheese. No biggie.
How to Make Apple Walnut Spinach Salad (It’s as Easy as It Gets)
You don’t need chef skills or fancy equipment. Here’s how I do it on busy weekdays and for fancy-ish gatherings alike.
🥗 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Toast the walnuts:
Add walnuts to a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently for 3-5 minutes until they smell fragrant and look just a bit darker. Remove and cool—don’t walk away or you’ll have walnut charcoal.
2. Slice your apples:
I keep the peel on for color, crunch, and nutrients. Thin wedges or matchsticks look great and eat even better.
3. Make the dressing:
In a small jar, whisk or shake together:
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Pinch of salt & black pepper
Taste and adjust as you like. I sometimes add a drop of lemon juice for extra tang.
4. Toss the salad:
In a big bowl, combine:
- 5 cups baby spinach
- 1-2 apples, sliced
- ½ cup toasted walnuts
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup crumbled feta (if using)
Pour on the dressing (start with half and add more as needed). Toss gently to coat. Top with extra nuts or a few apple slices for presentation points.
What Makes Maple Dressing So Special?
Maple syrup is magic in a bottle. Unlike regular sweet dressings, real maple syrup adds earthy, caramel notes that bring out the best in fruit and nuts. Paired with apple cider vinegar and a bit of Dijon, you get a balance of sweet, tangy, and rich.
Common mistake: Don’t use “pancake syrup”—it’s usually corn syrup with fake flavor. Go for 100% real maple syrup for the good stuff. It’s worth it!
Table: Nutrition Breakdown Per Serving
Here’s a look at what’s in each serving (recipe serves 4):
| Ingredient | Calories | Carbs (g) | Protein (g) | Fat (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spinach (1 ¼ cup) | 10 | 1.6 | 1.3 | 0.2 |
| Apple (½ medium) | 48 | 12.7 | 0.2 | 0.1 |
| Walnuts (2 tbsp) | 98 | 2.0 | 1.3 | 10.3 |
| Dried cranberries | 26 | 7.0 | 0 | 0 |
| Feta cheese (1 tbsp) | 25 | 0.5 | 1.2 | 2.0 |
| Red onion (few slices) | 5 | 1.2 | 0.1 | 0 |
| Maple dressing | 65 | 8.2 | 0 | 3.0 |
| Total/Serving | 272 | 33.2 | 4.1 | 15.6 |
Key Takeaway:
This is a salad with real staying power—fiber, healthy fats, antioxidants, and enough flavor to keep you away from that afternoon cookie.
Why I Make This Salad All Year (Not Just Fall!)
Look, I started making apple walnut spinach salad with maple dressing for autumn gatherings, but the truth? It’s too good to save for just one season. Apples are around all year, spinach is easy to find, and maple syrup…well, that’s a year-round mood booster.
Quick ideas:
- Serve with roast chicken or grilled salmon for a dinner that feels fancy.
- Meal prep for weekday lunches (just pack the dressing separately).
- Bring to picnics or BBQs—people love a salad that doesn’t wilt or get sad.
Real-Life Analogy: The “Best Dressed” Salad at Any Table
Imagine your family reunion or holiday table. There’s always that one dish that everyone grabs first—this salad is it. It’s fresh, colorful, and you get everything: sweet, crunchy, savory, and tangy in every bite.
Even my cousin (the salad skeptic) went back for seconds and asked for the recipe. Now she claims she “invented” it. Sure, Jan. 😂
Pro Tips for Next-Level Apple Walnut Spinach Salad
- Toss apples with lemon juice if you’re prepping ahead—no more brown apples!
- Use a mandoline for thin, even apple slices. (Just don’t slice your finger—been there.)
- Warm the dressing slightly for winter gatherings. That maple aroma = instant coziness.
- Add fresh herbs: Parsley or mint can add a new twist.
- Sprinkle on pomegranate seeds for extra color and festive feels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use another nut?
Absolutely. Pecans, almonds, or pumpkin seeds are all great (and allergy-friendly).
What’s the best apple variety?
Honeycrisp is king, but Fuji and Pink Lady are also top picks.
Vegan version?
Skip the feta or use a vegan alternative.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep the salad undressed and apples separated. Store the dressing in a jar for up to 5 days.
Mini Table: How This Salad Compares to Other Fall Salads
| Salad Type | Sweetness | Crunch | Protein | Fiber | Overall Crowd-Pleaser |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Walnut Spinach w/ Maple | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Classic Caesar | ⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Beet & Goat Cheese | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Kale & Cranberry | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Observation:
If you want max sweetness and crunch—apple walnut spinach salad wins, hands down.
Customize Your Way: Make It Yours!
No two salads should be exactly alike. Here’s how you can riff on the original:
- More protein? Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa.
- Extra crunch? Throw in roasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds.
- Cheese swap: Goat cheese or blue cheese brings a whole new vibe.
- Seasonal twist: Add orange segments, berries, or roasted sweet potato chunks.
Side note:
Don’t be afraid to experiment. The worst that can happen? You have more salad to eat.
Common Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
- Overdressing: Always start with less, toss, then taste. You can always add more.
- Boring texture: Mix in different elements—nuts, seeds, soft cheese, crisp apples.
- Using bland apples: Go for flavorful, crisp varieties. Mealy apples are a salad’s worst enemy.
- Forgetting salt & pepper: Even salads need seasoning!
Why Maple Dressing Makes Everything Better
The maple dressing is what takes this from “nice salad” to “omg, what is this?!” It’s not just sweet; it’s nuanced and cozy, and it clings to every leaf and walnut in the bowl.
Pro tip: Double the dressing and keep it in your fridge. Drizzle on roasted veggies, use as a dip for bread, or upgrade your next grain bowl.
External Links for More Inspiration
- Serious Eats – How to Toast Nuts
- Love & Lemons – Best Apple Salad
- Maple from Canada – Maple Salad Dressings
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Salad Be an Afterthought
Let’s be real—most people don’t dream about salad. But with the right combo (hello, apple salad, walnuts, spinach, maple dressing), you get something that feels like a celebration in a bowl.
So next time you want to upgrade lunch, wow your family, or just treat yourself, try this salad. Make it, taste it, own it—and come back here to tell me what you think. What’s your favorite apple to use? Got a salad tip or hilarious fail? Drop a comment—I’m all ears (and leaves). 🥗🍁
Ready to make every salad season special? Try this recipe and let your fork do the talking!