Celebrate Fall with Autumn Apple Salad and Feta

Introduction

As the leaves start to turn and the air fills with the scent of fallen foliage, it's the perfect time to embrace the flavors of autumn in your kitchen. One dish that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the season is an Autumn Apple Salad, blending the crispness of fresh apples with the richness of feta cheese and the savory notes of prosciutto. This salad is not only vibrant but also a delightful combination of textures and tastes that evoke the warmth of harvest time.

The beauty of this salad lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, with sweet and tart apples balancing the saltiness of the feta and prosciutto. Adding a handful of nuts for crunch and a drizzle of honey mustard dressing ties everything together, making this dish an ideal addition to your fall gatherings or a perfect light meal. It's quick to prepare, making it easier to spend more time with loved ones and less time worrying about the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 2 cups mixed salad greens
• 1 large apple, thinly sliced (preferably a crisp variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji)
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 4 oz prosciutto, thinly sliced
• 1/3 cup walnuts, chopped
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions & Preparation

1. In a large bowl, combine the salad greens and sliced apples.
2. Add the crumbled feta cheese and chopped walnuts to the bowl.
3. Tear the prosciutto into bite-sized pieces and gently fold it into the salad mix.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
5. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently to combine.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, then serve immediately for the best flavor.

FAQs

What types of apples work best in this salad?

Crisp varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith are ideal due to their sweetness and texture.

Can I make this salad without prosciutto?

Absolutely! You can omit the prosciutto or replace it with another protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas.

How can I prevent the apples from browning?

Toss the sliced apples in a little lemon juice before adding them to the salad to maintain their color.

What can I do if the salad dressing is too thin?

If your dressing is too thin, you can whisk in a bit more olive oil to thicken it or add a pinch of mustard to help emulsify.

Can I serve this salad as a main course?

Yes, by adding grilled chicken or quinoa, you can easily turn this salad into a heartier main dish.

Is there a way to customize the nuts in this salad?

Yes, you can substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or even pumpkin seeds for a different flavor and crunch.

Conclusion

This Autumn Apple Salad with Feta and Prosciutto is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of fall's bountiful flavors and textures. Pair it with a comforting soup or simply enjoy it on its own for a delightful meal. The combination of sweet, savory, and crunchy elements makes this salad a versatile recipe for any occasion.

Crafting seasonal dishes like this salad connects us with nature and reminds us of the beauty found in food. So gather your ingredients, invite friends or family around the table, and savor the comforts of autumn together.

Recipe Card

Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta Bliss

Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta Bliss made approachable with clear cues, pantry staples, and flexible swaps.

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Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 1 medium butternut squash peeled, seeded and cubed
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 4 oz feta cheese crumbled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons honey

Method

 

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the butternut squash.
3. Toss the squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread the squash onto a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast the squash for about 25 minutes.
6. Add the cranberries, honey, and toss lightly.
7. Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for an additional 10–12 minutes.
8. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with feta cheese.
9. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.

For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.

Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.