There is something truly magical about the vibrant flavors coming together in this Autumn Apple Salad with Feta and Prosciutto. It celebrates the crisp sweetness of fresh apples alongside the creamy tanginess of feta cheese and the delightful saltiness of prosciutto. Every bite offers a symphony of textures and tastes that perfectly capture the essence of fall. This salad isn’t just a side dish; it’s a centerpiece for any autumn meal, brightening the table with rich colors and irresistible flavors.

Autumn Apple Salad with Feta and Prosciutto Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the soul of creating a wonderful Autumn Apple Salad with Feta and Prosciutto. Each component is simple yet essential, contributing layers of flavor, texture, and balance that make this salad shine.

4 cups mixed greens: A refreshing base like arugula, spinach, or kale adds nutrients and a variety of textures.
2 medium apples: Pick your favorites such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith to provide the perfect blend of sweet and tart.
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese: This creamy, tangy addition gives the salad a luscious richness.
4 oz prosciutto: Thinly sliced prosciutto delivers a savory, delicate saltiness that elevates the dish.
1/4 cup walnuts or pecans: Toast these to bring out a crunchy, nutty depth.
1/4 cup dried cranberries: These add a sweet, chewy contrast that lingers beautifully on the palate.
1/4 cup olive oil: For a smooth, fruity dressing base that ties everything together.
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: This brightens the dressing with a subtle autumnal tang.
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds complexity and a gentle bite to the dressing.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all the flavors.

How to Make Autumn Apple Salad with Feta and Prosciutto

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by washing and thoroughly drying your mixed greens to keep them crisp. Core and slice the apples into thin, elegant wedges that will blend seamlessly with the other ingredients. To keep those apple slices looking fresh and vibrant, toss them lightly with a bit of lemon juice if you like, preventing that unwanted browning.

Step 2: Toast the Nuts

Next, take your walnuts or pecans and toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat. Keep stirring frequently for about five minutes until they turn golden brown and release their irresistible aroma. The toasting step not only adds crunch but also deepens the nutty flavor, which is crucial for creating the perfect texture contrast in this salad.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until they form a smooth, emulsified dressing. This combination is delightfully simple yet packs a punch, bringing a bright and tangy note that harmonizes beautifully with the sweet and savory ingredients in the salad.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Now comes the fun part—combining all your prepared ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together the mixed greens, apple wedges, crumbled feta, toasted nuts, dried cranberries, and those thin slices of prosciutto. Watching the colors and textures mingle is one of the most rewarding parts of making this Autumn Apple Salad with Feta and Prosciutto.

Step 5: Dress the Salad

Finally, drizzle your carefully made dressing over the salad and toss lightly to coat every bite with that delicious mix of flavors. Take care not to overdress—just enough to bring everything together without wilting those beautiful greens.

How to Serve Autumn Apple Salad with Feta and Prosciutto

Garnishes

For a finishing touch, sprinkle extra crumbled feta or some finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top. A few whole toasted nuts scattered around add a visually appealing crunch and can invite curious taste buds to dive in.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with hearty soups, roasted chicken, or even a warm grain bowl. The fresh, crisp qualities of the Autumn Apple Salad with Feta and Prosciutto create a delicious contrast alongside richer, comforting main dishes.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving this salad on a rustic wooden board with slices of crusty artisan bread or individual portions in pretty glass bowls to showcase the vibrant layers of color. You might also wrap prosciutto strips around apple slices before adding them, adding a fun surprise with every bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Autumn Apple Salad with Feta and Prosciutto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To preserve freshness, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving.

Freezing

Because of the fresh greens and apples, this salad is not suitable for freezing. The texture and flavor would be compromised by freezing and thawing.

Reheating

Since this is a fresh salad best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, reheating is not recommended. If desired, warm up any accompanying side dishes instead to complement the cool salad.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta?

Absolutely! While feta’s tangy creaminess pairs perfectly here, goat cheese or mozzarella can also work well depending on your preference.

Is prosciutto the only meat option?

Prosciutto provides a delicate saltiness, but you could substitute it with smoked ham, bacon bits, or even skip the meat altogether for a vegetarian version.

How can I keep the apples from browning for longer?

Coating the apple slices in a little lemon juice or tossing them in cold water with a splash of vinegar helps maintain their bright color and crisp texture.

Can I prepare parts of the salad in advance?

Yes! Toast the nuts and make the dressing ahead of time. Slice and store apples just before serving to keep them fresh, and keep the greens chilled.

What wine pairs well with Autumn Apple Salad with Feta and Prosciutto?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir complements the salad’s flavors and accentuates its autumn notes beautifully.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a salad that bursts with seasonal charm and exciting flavors, this Autumn Apple Salad with Feta and Prosciutto is an absolute must-try. It’s as delightful to make as it is to eat, and I promise it will brighten your autumn meals with every fresh, flavorful bite.

Autumn Apple Salad with Feta and Prosciutto Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 7 reviews

Author: Julian
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

A fresh and vibrant Autumn Apple Salad with creamy feta, savory prosciutto, toasted nuts, and a tangy apple cider vinaigrette, perfect for celebrating the flavors of fall in a light, nutritious dish.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients: Wash and dry the mixed greens thoroughly. Core the apples and slice them into thin wedges. To prevent browning, toss the apple slices lightly in lemon juice if desired.
Toast the Nuts: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the walnuts or pecans and toast for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until they become golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the mixture is well emulsified and smooth.
Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed greens, apple slices, crumbled feta, toasted nuts, dried cranberries, and slices of prosciutto, mixing gently.
Dress the Salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated without bruising the greens.

Notes

Use lemon juice on apple slices to avoid discoloration if preparing ahead of time.
For a vegetarian version, omit prosciutto or substitute with smoked tofu.
Toast nuts carefully to avoid burning which can impart bitterness.
Adjust salt and pepper in the dressing to taste, especially if the feta and prosciutto are already salty.
Serve immediately after dressing for the freshest texture and flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: No-cook with toasting
Cuisine: American