Roasted Apple Salad with Spicy Maple-Cider Vinaigrette

Introduction

There’s something about roasted apples that fills the house with warmth and comfort, don’t you think? And when you pair them with a crisp salad, toasted nuts, and a spicy maple-cider vinaigrette, it’s like the perfect combination of sweet and savory. This Roasted Apple Salad with Spicy Maple-Cider Vinaigrette is one of those dishes that can easily transition from a simple weekday lunch to a standout side for your weekend gatherings. The roasted apples bring out a caramelized sweetness, the greens add freshness, and the spicy vinaigrette has just the right balance of kick and sweetness that will have you coming back for more.

I first came across this salad last fall, and it immediately became a favorite at family gatherings. There’s something about the blend of flavors that reminds me of crisp autumn afternoons—falling leaves, cozy blankets, and family around the table. And while it’s perfect for the colder months, I could honestly eat this salad year-round. It’s just that good.

Plus, it’s easy to make. In fact, it’s the kind of salad you can throw together in no time with ingredients you probably already have on hand. The roasted apples are the star, but the crunchy walnuts and tangy vinaigrette really bring the whole thing together. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday meal, as a side to grilled chicken, or just as a light dinner on its own, this salad never fails to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re anything like me, you appreciate a salad that feels like a meal—and this Roasted Apple Salad with Spicy Maple-Cider Vinaigrette is just that. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Easy to Make: Roasting the apples takes little effort but gives you a deep, caramelized flavor that takes the salad to a whole new level. The vinaigrette comes together in minutes, with a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and tangy.
• Fresh, Seasonal Flavors: This salad captures the essence of fall with roasted apples, maple syrup, and walnuts. It’s a comforting yet fresh dish that brings the season’s flavors right to your table.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re having a casual dinner or preparing for a special gathering, this salad fits right in. The roasted apples and spicy vinaigrette add a touch of elegance, while the ingredients are simple enough to make it a go-to weeknight salad.
• Healthy & Nutritious: With greens, apples, nuts, and a light vinaigrette, this salad is packed with fiber, healthy fats, and vitamins. It’s satisfying without being heavy, making it a great option for both light meals and more substantial gatherings.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 30 minutes (including roasting time)
• Servings: 4-6
• Nutrition Facts:
  • Calories per serving: 220
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbs: 35g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Fiber: 5g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this Roasted Apple Salad with Spicy Maple-Cider Vinaigrette:

• 2 medium apples (I love using Honeycrisp or Gala for their balance of sweetness and tartness)
• 2 cups mixed greens (baby spinach, arugula, or kale work great)
• ½ cup walnuts (toasted for extra flavor)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup (for that perfect fall sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (adds a touch of warmth)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a bit of heat)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for the vinaigrette)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to balance the sweetness)

Why these ingredients?

• Apples: Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, while adding texture and depth to the salad.
• Mixed Greens: The base of the salad, offering freshness and crunch.
• Walnuts: They give a satisfying crunch and rich flavor that complements the sweetness of the apples and the vinaigrette.
• Maple Syrup & Apple Cider Vinegar: These form the base of the vinaigrette, offering a sweet and tangy balance that ties everything together.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this Roasted Apple Salad is super straightforward, and I promise you’ll feel like a pro by the time you’re done. Here’s how to do it:

1. Preheat the oven and prepare your apples:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, core and slice the apples into wedges. No need to peel them—keeping the skin on helps them hold their shape while roasting.
2. Roast the apples:
   Spread the apple slices on a baking sheet, drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss them around to make sure they’re evenly coated. Roast in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the apples are golden brown and slightly caramelized. Set them aside to cool for a few minutes.
3. Toast the walnuts:
   While the apples are roasting, toast the walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat. This will only take a few minutes, so keep an eye on them! Once they’re fragrant and lightly browned, remove them from the heat and set them aside.
4. Make the spicy maple-cider vinaigrette:
   In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, red pepper flakes, and lemon juice. Slowly drizzle in the 2 tablespoons of olive oil while whisking to emulsify the vinaigrette. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Assemble the salad:
   In a large bowl, toss the mixed greens with a little bit of the vinaigrette—just enough to lightly coat the leaves. Be gentle, so you don’t bruise the greens.
6. Add the roasted apples and walnuts:
   Gently place the roasted apple slices on top of the greens, followed by the toasted walnuts. Drizzle a little more vinaigrette over the top and give everything one last toss.
7. Serve and enjoy:
   Serve this salad immediately, and if you like, sprinkle a few extra toasted walnuts on top for some extra crunch. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, pork, or even as a stand-alone light lunch.

How to Serve

This Roasted Apple Salad with Spicy Maple-Cider Vinaigrette is versatile and can be served in many ways! Here are a few ideas:

• Main Course: Add grilled chicken, turkey breast, or roasted pork for a satisfying main dish. The sweetness of the apples and the spicy vinaigrette complement savory meats beautifully.
• Side Dish: Serve alongside a hearty fall dish like roasted chicken or turkey, or even with a vegetarian grain-based dish like quinoa or farro for a lighter option.
• Light Lunch: Toss in some grilled chicken or a few slices of cheese to make it a more substantial lunch.
• Pair with Warm Bread: Serve with a side of fresh, crusty bread to scoop up the vinaigrette and roasted apple bits.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you master this recipe:

1. Use firm apples: Choose apples that hold up well when roasted, like Honeycrisp or Gala. Softer varieties like Red Delicious might turn mushy.
2. Don’t skip the toasting step for walnuts: Toasting nuts really brings out their flavor and makes them extra crunchy. It only takes a few minutes, so it’s worth the extra step.
3. Customize your greens: Feel free to switch up the greens depending on your preference. Arugula adds a peppery bite, while baby spinach is softer and milder.
4. Make ahead: The roasted apples can be prepped a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just reheat them in the microwave or toss them directly onto the salad cold.
5. Don’t be afraid to adjust the spice: If you’re not a fan of too much heat, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes, or leave them out entirely. Conversely, if you like a little more heat, go ahead and add a pinch more!

Recipe Variations

This salad is super customizable! Here are a few variations to try:

• Vegetarian Option: Keep it vegetarian by omitting any meat and adding some roasted chickpeas or tofu for protein.
• Sweet and Savory: Add some crumbled blue cheese or goat cheese for a tangy, creamy bite that pairs wonderfully with the sweet apples.
• Vegan: Swap the honey for maple syrup in the vinaigrette and skip the cheese for a completely plant-based version.
• Grilled Pears: If you don’t have apples on hand or just want to try something different, swap them for grilled pears for a soft, caramelized twist.
• Nuts: Change up the nuts! Pecans or almonds make great substitutes for walnuts. Toast them to bring out their natural flavors.

FAQ: Roasted Apple Salad with Spicy Maple-Cider Vinaigrette

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can roast the apples and toast the walnuts up to 2 days ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep the greens fresh and crisp. You can also make the vinaigrette in advance and store it in a jar in the fridge for up to a week.

2. Can I use other types of apples?
Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Gala apples work great for this salad due to their balance of sweetness and tartness, you can use other varieties like Fuji, Braeburn, or even Granny Smith for a more tart flavor. Just make sure the apples are firm enough to hold up during roasting.

3. How can I make this salad spicier?
If you enjoy a more intense kick, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the vinaigrette or add a dash of cayenne pepper. Another option is to drizzle a bit of hot sauce or add sliced fresh chili peppers to the salad for an extra layer of heat.

4. Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes, this salad can easily be made vegan! Simply omit any cheese and substitute the honey in the vinaigrette with more maple syrup or agave. The roasted apples, walnuts, and spicy vinaigrette will still provide plenty of flavor.

5. What can I use instead of walnuts?
If you’re not a fan of walnuts or simply don’t have any on hand, you can substitute them with other nuts like pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts. Roasted chickpeas or seeds (like pumpkin or sunflower) would also work well for a crunchy, plant-based option.

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Conclusion

This Roasted Apple Salad with Spicy Maple-Cider Vinaigrette has become one of my go-to recipes whenever I want something light yet hearty, sweet yet spicy. It’s one of those dishes that always feels like a treat—whether you’re enjoying it on its own or as part of a bigger meal. The combination of roasted apples, crunchy walnuts, fresh greens, and that zingy vinaigrette just never gets old. It’s the perfect balance of fall flavors, and best of all, it’s easy to make!

I hope you enjoy this salad as much as I do. It’s the kind of dish that will impress at your next gathering, but it’s also simple enough to be a weeknight favorite. Don’t be afraid to play around with it, too. After all, the best recipes are the ones that reflect your own personal touch!