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panera fuji apple salad

Panera Fuji Apple Salad

A refreshing recreation of Panera's famous Fuji apple salad with crisp apples, tangy goat cheese, and crunchy walnuts in a bright citrus vinaigrette.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Fruit Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 240
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 Fuji apples cored and thinly sliced
  • 4 cups mixed greens spring mix or baby lettuce blend
  • 1/3 cup walnuts chopped and lightly toasted
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup goat cheese crumbled
  • 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced (optional)
For the Dressing
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon honey optional
  • 1/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard optional
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large salad bowl
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Toss the sliced Fuji apples with 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice in a medium bowl to prevent browning.
  2. In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens as a base for your salad.
  3. Add the toasted walnuts to the greens.
  4. Sprinkle the dried cranberries evenly throughout the salad.
  5. Gently fold in the crumbled goat cheese.
  6. Add the lemon-coated apple slices and optional red onion, distributing them evenly.
  7. For the vinaigrette, whisk together the remaining tablespoon of lemon juice, olive oil, honey (if using), Dijon mustard (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper until emulsified.
  8. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving, then gently toss to coat all ingredients.
  9. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • For meal prep, store all components separately and assemble just before eating.
  • Honeycrisp or Pink Lady apples can substitute for Fuji if needed.
  • Toast walnuts in a dry skillet for 3-5 minutes for enhanced flavor.