Crisp, colorful, and bursting with flavor, this Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad is the kind of dish that makes fall taste like a dream. It brings together everything we love about the season: tart apples, crunchy nuts, sweet cranberries, and creamy feta, all tossed in a tangy homemade dressing that you’ll want to drizzle over everything.

It’s an easy recipe that feels fancy enough for holiday dinners but simple enough for everyday lunches. The textures are a perfect contrast, from the tender greens to the crisp apples and chewy dried fruit. It’s healthy, satisfying, and looks just as gorgeous on the table as it tastes.

Why You’ll Love This Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad

This salad is a celebration of seasonal ingredients and comes together in minutes. You’ll love the way the sweetness of the apples and cranberries balances the tangy feta and vinaigrette. It’s naturally gluten-free, easy to customize, and pairs beautifully with meats, soups, or as a standalone meal.

Plus, the vinaigrette is one of those make-once, use-always kind of dressings that you’ll want to keep on hand for other salads too.

What Kind of Apples Work Best in This Salad?

Honeycrisp apples are the go-to for this salad, and for good reason. Their natural sweetness and firm crunch make them a standout in both flavor and texture. If you can’t find Honeycrisp, try Pink Lady, Fuji, or even Gala apples as a substitute. Just avoid softer varieties like Red Delicious, which don’t hold up well in salads.

Ingredients for the Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad

This vibrant salad is packed with fresh, crunchy, and sweet ingredients that come together for a delightful bite every time.

Honeycrisp apples
Mixed greens
Feta cheese
Dried cranberries
Candied pecans
Red onion
Olive oil
Apple cider vinegar
Dijon mustard
Maple syrup
Salt and black pepper

The star here is definitely the Honeycrisp apples, offering the perfect crispness and sweetness. Mixed greens create a hearty base, while feta cheese adds creaminess and contrast. Dried cranberries give a burst of chew and tang, and candied pecans add crunch with a touch of sweetness. Red onion slices sharpen the flavor, and the dressing made from olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup ties it all together with a slightly sweet and tangy finish.

Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad (1)

How To Make the Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad

Step 1: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad Base

Add mixed greens to a large serving bowl. Scatter in thinly sliced red onions, dried cranberries, and candied pecans.

Step 3: Add the Apples and Feta

Core and thinly slice the Honeycrisp apples, then add them to the salad. Crumble feta cheese on top.

Step 4: Dress and Toss

Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving and gently toss everything together until evenly coated. Serve immediately for maximum crunch and freshness.

How to Serve and Store Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad

This salad serves about 4 to 6 people as a side or 2 to 3 as a main dish. It’s best enjoyed fresh, right after tossing with the dressing to preserve the crisp texture of the apples and greens.

If you’re planning to make it ahead of time, prep all the components separately and store them in the fridge. Combine everything just before serving, and keep the dressing in a jar on the side.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to a day, though the apples and greens will soften. For best results, consider storing the salad and dressing separately if you’re not eating it all at once.

What to Serve With Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad?

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

The creaminess of the soup and the crisp salad make a cozy fall pairing.

Grilled Chicken Breast

Simple grilled chicken complements the salad’s flavors without overpowering them.

Sweet Potato Casserole

For a heartier meal, this salad contrasts beautifully with the richness of sweet potatoes.

Freshly Baked Cornbread

Soft, buttery cornbread on the side adds that homey comfort.

Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops

The apple elements tie beautifully into this main course.

Wild Rice Pilaf

A nutty, warm side dish that mirrors the harvest theme.

Brie and Cranberry Crostini

These make an elegant appetizer or a fun accompaniment to the salad.

Spiced Pumpkin Seeds

Sprinkle a few on top for extra crunch and seasonal flair.

Want More Salad Ideas with a Fall Twist?

If you’re a fan of this fresh and tangy fall salad, try one of these other irresistible combinations:

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest salad board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try a different cheese or nut? Did you swap the dressing? I’m always excited to hear your delicious twists.

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