Crisp Northern Wind Apple and Cheddar Salad

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-04-26 · Updated 2026-04-26

A refreshing salad combining crisp northern apples with sharp cheddar, toasted nuts, and a tangy vinaigrette. This american-inspired salads ready in about 15 minutes pairs mixed salad greens, cubed sharp cheddar cheese, roughly chopped toasted walnuts into a side that holds its own next to almost any main — bright, balanced, and quick enough to slot into a weeknight plate. Each serving lands at about 250 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly next to roasted proteins, grain bowls, or weeknight mains. 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.

Ingredients

• 5 cups mixed salad greens
• 2 medium, thinly sliced northern-style tart apple
• 4 oz, cubed sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup, roughly chopped toasted walnuts
• 1/4 small, thinly sliced red onion
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp honey
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large salad bowl, combine 5 cups mixed salad greens, 2 thinly sliced tart northern-style apples, 4 oz cubed sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup toasted roughly chopped walnuts, and 1/4 small thinly sliced red onion.
2. Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp honey, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until emulsified.
3. Step 3: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Serve immediately for a crisp, tangy contrast of flavors.