Fig and Walnut Salad with Honey Dressing

Name: Fig and Walnut Salad with Honey Dressing
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups mixed greens; 8 fresh figs, sliced; 1 cup walnuts, roughly chopped; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional); 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love creating fresh salads, and this Fig and Walnut Salad with Honey Dressing has become a favorite in our home. The sweet figs, crunchy walnuts, and light honey dressing create a delightful balance of flavors and textures. It’s the perfect dish to serve at gatherings or as a quick lunch during the week. The best part is how easy it is to whip up, making it a go-to recipe when I want something impressive yet simple.

Created by

Riley Dawson

Last updated on 2026-01-07T13:10:12.872Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of combining figs and walnuts, I was intrigued by how different flavors could work together. I decided to experiment with a simple dressing made from honey and olive oil, and it exceeded my expectations. The sweetness of the figs really shines through, and the walnuts add a delightful crunch that keeps the salad interesting.

A tip I’ve found that elevates this salad is to lightly toast the walnuts before adding them. This brings out their natural oils and enhances the nuttiness, making every bite more flavorful. It’s a brilliant touch that I’ve shared with my friends and family, who now request this salad at every get-together!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The sweetness of fresh figs mingling beautifully with the nuttiness of walnuts
A light and refreshing honey dressing that perfectly complements the ingredients
Quick to prepare, making it an ideal option for both casual meals and special occasions

      

Choosing the Right Figs

When selecting figs for your salad, look for fresh, plump figs that yield slightly to pressure. They should be soft but not mushy, with a rich, deep color. Avoid figs with bruises or signs of shriveling, as this indicates over-ripeness. If fresh figs are out of season, you can substitute dried figs, which will impart a different but still delightful sweetness. Just soak them in warm water for about 10-15 minutes to rehydrate them before slicing.

Fresh figs add both sweetness and a unique texture to this salad, providing a juicy contrast to the crisp greens. Their natural sugar content pairs perfectly with the nutty flavor of walnuts, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. If figs are hard to come by, try roasted pears or apples as an alternative, which will provide a similar sweet and satisfying bite.

Nailing the Honey Dressing

The honey dressing is the key to bringing all the flavors of the salad together. Be sure to whisk the ingredients thoroughly until you achieve a smooth and glossy consistency. If the dressing is too thick, you can thin it out by adding a splash of water or an extra teaspoon of balsamic vinegar. Taste as you go, adjusting the salt and pepper to enhance the sweetness of the honey and the tanginess of the vinegar.

For a variation on the honey dressing, consider adding a touch of Dijon mustard for an extra zing. This will elevate the dressing with additional depth and a hint of sharpness. If you're in a hurry, simply combine the dressing ingredients in a jar with a tight lid and shake until emulsified—it's quick, easy, and keeps the flavors vibrant.

Storage and Serving Tips

If you're planning to make the salad ahead of time, consider storing the dressing separately to prevent sogginess. You can keep the mixed greens, figs, and walnuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just before serving, add the feta and drizzle the dressing—this will ensure the salad remains fresh and crisp.

For an added touch, consider garnishing the salad with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like mint or basil. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also bring an aromatic freshness that complements the figs and walnuts. This salad can be served on its own as a light meal or alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete dinner.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful salad:

Salad Ingredients

4 cups mixed greens
8 fresh figs, sliced
1 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

Honey Dressing Ingredients

1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure everything is fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your salad:

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced figs, walnuts, red onion, and feta cheese if using.

Add the Dressing

Drizzle the honey dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring the greens and figs are evenly coated.

Serve

Plate the salad and serve immediately, garnished with additional walnuts if desired.

Enjoy your fresh and flavorful salad!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this salad with seasonal fruits or your favorite nuts. Toasted pecans or almonds can also work wonderfully.

Serving Suggestions

This Fig and Walnut Salad can serve as a stunning centerpiece at your next gathering. Pair it with a robust red wine to complement the sweetness of the figs and the earthiness of the walnuts. For a more elaborate meal, serve it alongside grilled meats like lamb or beef, which contrasts nicely with the lightness of the salad.

An alternative way to present this salad is to create individual servings in small bowls or mason jars. This presentation not only looks appealing but also makes it easy for guests to serve themselves. Adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top just before serving can elevate the flavor and appearance.

Variations and Dietary Swaps

If you have guests with dietary restrictions, this salad is highly adaptable. For a vegan version, simply replace the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for the dressing. Additionally, omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a firm tofu crumbled with a splash of lemon juice for a savory note.

For a gluten-free variation, ensure that the balsamic vinegar and any other packaged ingredients are certified gluten-free. You can also add quinoa or farro to the salad to create a heartier dish that’s rich in protein and fiber. These grains will add a nice chewiness and soak up the dressing beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It's best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep the greens fresh and crunchy. However, you can prepare the dressing and chop the ingredients in advance.

→ What can I substitute for figs?

Dried figs can be used in place of fresh ones, though they will provide a different texture and sweetness. Alternatively, ripe pears make an excellent substitute.

→ How long does the dressing last?

The honey dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just give it a good shake before using.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free ingredients for the dressing and any additional toppings.