Cranberry Walnut Salad Recipe
This Cranberry Walnut Salad is fresh, crunchy, and loaded with sweet dried cranberries, toasted walnuts, crisp greens, creamy feta cheese, and a simple homemade balsamic vinaigrette. It's the perfect side salad for holidays, family dinners, meal prep lunches, and special occasions.
With its balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, this easy salad recipe feels elegant enough for entertaining while remaining simple enough for everyday meals.
The Origins of Cranberry Walnut Salad
Cranberry Walnut Salad became popular as a seasonal fall and holiday salad thanks to the abundance of cranberries and nuts during the autumn months. Over time, it evolved into a year-round favorite because of its delicious combination of textures and flavors.
Today, it's commonly served at restaurants, holiday gatherings, and dinner parties throughout North America.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ready in 15 minutes
Perfect for holidays and gatherings
Sweet and savory flavor combination
Packed with texture and crunch
Easy to customize
Ingredients
For the Salad
6 cups mixed greens
1 cup dried cranberries
1 cup walnuts, toasted
½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
½ cucumber, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
For the Balsamic Vinaigrette
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Toast the Walnuts
Place walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat.
Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
Allow to cool.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl whisk together:
Olive oil
Balsamic vinegar
Honey
Dijon mustard
Salt
Black pepper
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large serving bowl combine:
Mixed greens
Cranberries
Walnuts
Feta cheese
Cucumber
Tomatoes
Red onion
Step 4: Dress and Serve
Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad.
Toss gently until coated.
Serve immediately.
What to Serve with Cranberry Walnut Salad
Grilled Chicken
Roast Turkey
Honey Glazed Ham
Chicken Salad Sandwiches
Soup and Sandwiches
Holiday Dinners
Thanksgiving Meals
Variations
Cranberry Walnut Apple Salad
Add sliced Honeycrisp apples for extra sweetness and crunch.
Goat Cheese Cranberry Salad
Replace feta with creamy goat cheese.
Chicken Cranberry Walnut Salad
Add grilled chicken breast to turn this side dish into a complete meal.
Pear Cranberry Salad
Add sliced pears and candied walnuts.
Storage
Store the salad and dressing separately.
Once dressed, the salad is best enjoyed immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Cranberry Walnut Salad ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the ingredients ahead of time and add the dressing just before serving.
What cheese goes best with cranberry salad?
Feta, goat cheese, blue cheese, and gorgonzola all pair wonderfully with cranberries.
Can I use pecans instead of walnuts?
Absolutely. Pecans are an excellent substitute.
More Salad Recipes You'll Love
Apple Pecan Salad
Cobb Salad
Chicken Salad
Tuna Salad
Egg Salad
Watermelon Feta Salad
Corn Salad
Tex Mex Salad
Final Thoughts
This Cranberry Walnut Salad is fresh, colorful, and packed with flavor. With crunchy walnuts, sweet cranberries, creamy feta, and tangy balsamic vinaigrette, it's a simple yet impressive salad perfect for any occasion.