APPLE- WALNUT SALAD W/ CRANBERRY VINAIGRETTE

I've been making a wonderful salad. I have used the basic cranberry vinaigrette and served it over spinach, apples and candied walnuts. Also mixed greens and pears with blue cheese and I've also made the salad as is. This is a really versatile salad with an essence of fall. I hope you enjoy it as much as we have!

APPLE- WALNUT SALAD W/ CRANBERRY VINAIGRETTE

¼ cup fresh or frozen cranberries, thawed
¼ cup balsamic vinegar
1 Tbsp chopped red onion
1 Tbsp granulated sugar
1 tsp dijon mustard
1 cup vegetable or canola oil
10 cups mixed baby greens
2 medium red delicious or honeycrisp apples, cored & thinly sliced
½ cup chopped walnuts, toasted

1. Puree cranberries in processor until smooth. Add vinegar, onion, sugar and mustard and process until well blended. With processor running, gradually add oil and process until well blended. Transfer to medium bowl. Season to taste with salt and pepper. (Can be made 1 day ahead. Cover; chill. Bring to room temperature and whisk before using).

2. Combine greens and apples in large bowl. Toss with enough dressing to coat. Sprinkle with walnuts. Serve, passing remaining dressing separately.

Servings: 6

Cooking Tips
*If you would prefer a cleaner look to your salad, try looking for white balsamic vinegar. The original version, although it slightly coats the apples with the brown balsamic, is still very yummy.
*Add a crumbled cheese- goat or blue, if desired.

Recipe Source: Adapted from Bon Appetit