This simple arugula apple salad is the perfect addition to your fall menu. Nutty manchego cheese and sweet dried cherries paired with spicy arugula come together to create a perfect salad.

If you've seen plenty of arugula and apple salad recipes before, let me assure you this one is different. What sets it apart is the unexpected pairing of nutty manchego cheese and sweet-tart dried cherries. 

This combination elevated this salad from ordinary to memorable. Tossed with crisp apples, peppery arugula, and crunchy walnuts, it's a bold flavorful salad that's perfect for fall entertaining. 

This is the kind of side dish that feels restaurant worthy but comes together in minutes. The manchego adds richness, the cherries bring chewy sweetness, and the sherry vinaigrette ties it all together. It's perfect for Thanksgiving dinner, holiday gatherings, or even a quick weeknight meal when you want something light but satisfying. 

Why Make THIS Arugula Apple Salad?

I first tasted a version of this salad at Zambra, a farm-to-table tapas and wine bar in Asheville, NC. Their arugula salad was striking in its simplicity, but what really hooked me was how the balance of flavors felt both bold and effortless. 

While I added my own twists, apples for crunch and walnuts instead of candied pecans, the stars of the show remain Manchego cheese and cherries. They're not the typical ingredients you find in arugula salad, but they're what make this version stand out from all the rest. 

Here's why you'll love it:

• Unique flavor pairing: Manchego's nutty, slightly salty flavor pairs beautifully with the juicy sweetness of cherries.
• Textural contrast: crisp apples and crunchy walnuts keep every bite interesting.
• Simple ingredients, big flavor: Nothing fancy, just thoughtful pairings that make the salad taste special.
• Seasonal and versatile: Great for fall holidays, but light enough to enjoy all year round.

Ingredients for fall and arugula apple salad:

The ingredient list is short but every element counts:

• Olive oil and sherry vinegar: a light and tangy base for the dressing
• Honey: a touch of sweetness to balance the vinegar.
• Dried cherries: soaked in the vinaigrette to make them plump and flavorful.
• Baby arugula: peppery greens that hold up well to bold flavors.
• Apples: crisp and refreshing. Choose Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji.
• Carrot: adds color and freshness.
• Walnuts: toasted for depth and crunch.
• Manchego cheese: It's nutty, buttery flavor sets this apart from the usual goat cheese or Parmesan versions.

How to Make Arugula and Apple Salad

This salad is all about layering flavors without making things complicated. Start by whisking olive oil, sherry vinegar, honey, and salt in a small bowl. Stir in the dried cherries and let them soak. They'll plump up and infuse the dressing with extra flavor.

Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant. This takes just a couple of minutes but makes a big difference.

In a large bowl, toss the arugula , thinly sliced apples, and grated carrot. Drizzle with the dressing (you may not need all of it) and toss to coat. Finish with the walnuts and plenty of shredded manchego cheese.

Tips and Variations

• Cherry variation: If you're out of dried cherries, dried cranberries work in a pinch but cherries bring a deeper, richer flavor.
• Make ahead: Assemble the dressing and toast the nuts in advance. Add the dressing right before serving to keep the greens crisp.
• Apple swap: Pears are a lovely alternative if you prefer softer fruit.
• Other cheeses: Manchego is the star but if you can't find it, aged Pecorino or sharp white cheddar make good substitutes. If you like spicy, try Cabot's habanero cheese!

Serving Suggestions:

The arugula apple salad is versatile enough to serve with a wide variety of meals. It makes a refreshing starter for a cozy fall dinner or a colorful addition to a holiday spread. Pair it with hearty dishes like Butternut Squash Soup. It also works beautifully as part of a simple lunch alongside a Cucumber Mint Chutney Sandwich.

For more fall recipes you may also like my

• Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars
• Apple Pie Cheesecakes in a Jar
• Upside Down Pear Cake
• Poached Pears in Wine

I originally shared this arugula and apple salad recipe on Food Fanatic so be sure to visit it there.