Kimberly Recipes

Name: Crispy Apple Blue Cheese Salad with Candied Walnuts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 strips thick-cut bacon; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 1 cup walnut halves; 1 tablespoon light brown sugar; 4 ounces mixed salad greens; ⅓ cup crumbled blue cheese (or feta cheese); ⅛ cup thinly sliced red onion; ¼ cup dried cherries, raisins, or cranberries; ½ to 1 medium apple, cored and thinly sliced; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; 8 grinds fresh black pepper; ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

Breakfast Recipes
Chicken Recipes
Dinner Recipes
Soup Recipes

Home / Dinner Recipes

Crispy Apple Blue Cheese Salad with Candied Walnuts

July 22, 2026

Let me introduce you to my new favorite salad obsession: the Apple Blue Cheese Salad. This isn't just any salad—it's a crunchy, creamy, sweet, and savory masterpiece that will have you going back for seconds. Imagine crispy bacon, tart juicy apples, candied walnuts, and tangy blue cheese all mingling together on a bed of fresh greens. Even the pickiest eaters won't be able to resist this flavor-packed bowl.

Crispy Apple Blue Cheese Salad with Candied Walnuts

What makes this salad truly special is the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The candied walnuts add a delightful crunch and sweetness, while the blue cheese provides a creamy tang that complements the crisp apples and smoky bacon. The homemade maple Dijon dressing ties everything together beautifully. Whether you're serving it at a holiday feast, a dinner party, or just a regular Tuesday night, this Apple Blue Cheese Salad is sure to impress. And for those who aren't fans of blue cheese? Simply swap in feta cheese—it's just as delicious!

Crispy Apple Blue Cheese Salad with Candied Walnuts

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8 (45 ratings)

⏱️ Prep: 15 mins 🍳 Cook: 25 mins 🍽️ Servings: 4

Ingredients

Bacon

4 strips thick-cut bacon

Candied Walnuts

1 tablespoon unsalted butter 1 cup walnut halves 1 tablespoon light brown sugar

Dressing

½ teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil ½ teaspoon kosher salt 8 grinds fresh black pepper

Salad

4 ounces mixed salad greens ⅓ cup crumbled blue cheese (or feta cheese) ⅛ cup thinly sliced red onion ¼ cup dried cherries, raisins, or cranberries ½ to 1 medium apple, cored and thinly sliced

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F: Line a baking sheet with foil and arrange the bacon strips in a single layer. Bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
Melt butter in a small skillet: Over medium-low heat, add the walnuts and brown sugar, stirring constantly to coat. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until the nuts are toasted and fragrant. Immediately transfer to a bowl and let cool.
Combine dressing ingredients: In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the Dijon mustard, maple syrup, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Shake vigorously until emulsified.
Assemble the salad: Place the greens on a large platter or in a bowl. Layer half of the bacon, candied walnuts, red onion, dried fruit, blue cheese, and apple slices. Repeat with the remaining ingredients to ensure even distribution. Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss gently before serving.