Apple and Walnut Salad Cups – Fresh & Easy Gluten Free Fall Appetizer

Recipe Summary

These Apple and Walnut Salad Cups are fresh, crunchy, and full of fall flavor — the perfect gluten-free appetizer or side dish for your autumn table. Crisp apples, toasted walnuts, and creamy dressing are beautifully served in lettuce cups for a light yet satisfying bite.
They’re elegant enough for the holidays but simple enough for everyday meals. Plus, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, with dairy-free options!

Ingredient Notes and Easy Swaps

You’ll only need a few simple ingredients to make these bright and refreshing salad cups:

• Apples: Choose firm, crisp apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala for the best crunch.
• Walnuts: Toasted for a warm, nutty flavor. You can substitute pecans if desired.
• Celery: Adds fresh crunch and balance to the sweetness of the apples.
• Green Onion: Optional, for a light savory kick.
• Greek Yogurt or Mayonnaise: Acts as the creamy dressing base — choose dairy-free yogurt if needed.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: A touch of natural sweetness enhances the flavor.
• Romaine or Butter Lettuce: Perfect for serving the salad in neat, handheld “cups.”

Substitutions:

• Nut-Free: Swap walnuts for roasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas).
• Dairy-Free: Use plain coconut or almond yogurt.
• Low-Sugar: Omit honey or use stevia drops instead.

How To Make Apple and Walnut Salad Cups (Step-By-Step)

• Prepare the Apples:
  Dice the apples into small cubes. To prevent browning, toss them in a bit of lemon juice.

• Toast the Walnuts:
  In a small skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts for 3–4 minutes until fragrant. Let them cool slightly.

• Mix the Dressing:
  In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt (or mayo), honey, a pinch of salt, and pepper.
• Combine Everything:
  Add apples, celery, green onion, and walnuts into a large bowl. Pour in the dressing and mix until coated.

• Assemble the Cups:
  Spoon the apple mixture into crisp lettuce leaves. Garnish with extra walnut pieces and a drizzle of honey or sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.

Top These Salad Cups With:

• Crumbled goat cheese or feta for richness
• Dried cranberries for color and tang
• A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for cozy fall flavor

Tips For Success

• Serve immediately: To keep the apples fresh and crunchy.
• Toss apples in lemon juice: Prevents browning.
• Make-ahead tip: Prepare the salad mixture in advance and fill lettuce cups just before serving.
• Use chilled ingredients: The salad tastes extra refreshing when cold.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the filling 4–6 hours ahead and refrigerate. Add dressing and lettuce cups right before serving for the best texture.

Q: What kind of lettuce works best?
Romaine, butter lettuce, or little gem lettuce cups hold their shape beautifully.

Q: Can I use a different nut?
Absolutely! Pecans, almonds, or even sunflower seeds are delicious swaps.

Q: Is this salad gluten-free and dairy-free?
Yes — it’s naturally gluten-free, and can easily be made dairy-free by using plant-based yogurt or mayo.

More Delicious Gluten-Free Fall Appetizers:

• Mini Pumpkin Cheese Balls
• Stuffed Mushroom Caps
• Roasted Butternut Squash

Love This Recipe?

If you loved these Apple and Walnut Salad Cups, don’t forget to rate it and share on Pinterest! Tag your recreations with #GlutenFreeFallEats — I’d love to see them.

Apple and Walnut Salad Cups

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Skillet (for toasting nuts)
• Knife and cutting board
• Whisk and spoon

Ingredients 1x2x3x

For the Salad:

• 2 medium apples, diced
• ½ cup chopped walnuts, toasted
• ½ cup diced celery
• 1 green onion, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Dressing:

• ¼ cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving:

• 8–10 romaine or butter lettuce leaves

Instructions

1. Dice apples and toss in lemon juice.
2. Toast walnuts lightly in a skillet; let them cool.
3. Whisk together yogurt, honey, salt, and pepper for dressing.
4. Cmbine apples, celery, onion, and walnuts in a bowl; add dressing and toss.
5. Spoon mixture into lettuce leaves and serve immediately.

Notes

You can easily double this recipe for parties or serve it as a side dish for fall dinners. To make it extra festive, sprinkle dried cranberries or crushed pecans on top before serving.

SPECIAL NOTE

This recipe celebrates the beauty of fall flavors — crisp apples, nutty crunch, and creamy dressing. It’s proof that gluten-free appetizers can be fresh, elegant, and seasonal without extra effort!

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 lettuce cups
Calories: 180 | Protein: 4g | Fat: 12g | Carbs: 15g | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 10g

Nutrition Disclaimer

Nutritional information is approximate and will vary depending on specific ingredients and brands used. Always confirm your products are certified gluten-free if you have dietary sensitivities.