Apple and Walnut Salad with Lemon-Oregano Dressing

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A refreshing salad featuring crisp apple slices, crunchy walnuts, and tangy lemon-oregano dressing perfect for a light meal or side dish. This mediterranean-inspired salads (vegetarian) ready in about 10 minutes blends mixed salad greens, large, thinly sliced apple, toasted and roughly chopped walnuts into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 220 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Serves 4 Mediterranean cuisine 220 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large salad bowl, combine 4 cups mixed salad greens with 1 large thinly sliced apple and 1/2 cup toasted, roughly chopped walnuts.
  2. Step 2: Sprinkle 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese evenly over the greens and apple mixture.
  3. Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp honey, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until the dressing emulsifies and becomes smooth.
  4. Step 4: Drizzle the lemon-oregano dressing over the salad and toss gently until all ingredients are lightly coated and vibrant.
  5. Step 5: Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp textures and bright flavors at their freshest.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Apple and Walnut Salad with Lemon-Oregano Dressing take to make?

Total time is about 10 minutes (10 min prep + 0 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Apple and Walnut Salad with Lemon-Oregano Dressing?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Apple and Walnut Salad with Lemon-Oregano Dressing?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Apple and Walnut Salad with Lemon-Oregano Dressing for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Apple and Walnut Salad with Lemon-Oregano Dressing vegetarian?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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