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: 6 fresh figs, quartered; 1 cup walnuts, toasted; 4 cups arugula or mixed greens; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional); 1/4 cup honey; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Fig and Walnut Salad with Honey Dressing for a light and refreshing meal. The combination of fresh figs, crunchy walnuts, and a sweet honey dressing makes it a delightful experience for the taste buds. Every time I prepare this salad, I’m reminded of summer picnics and leisurely lunches. It’s so simple to put together yet impressively elegant, making it perfect for both casual gatherings and special occasions. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll want to make this salad a regular part of your menu!

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2026-01-07T13:25:12.769Z

When I first discovered the combination of figs and walnuts, I was blown away by how well they complemented each other. The natural sweetness of the figs pairs beautifully with the nuttiness of the walnuts, while the honey dressing ties everything together with a touch of sweetness and tang. I often experiment with adding different greens, but I keep coming back to arugula because of its peppery bite, which balances the sweet elements perfectly.

This salad is not just a visual treat with its vibrant colors, but it also packs a nutritional punch! Figs are a rich source of fiber, and walnuts provide healthy fats. For an extra layer of flavor, I sometimes sprinkle a bit of feta cheese on top, which adds a creamy and salty contrast that elevates the dish. Each bite is a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.

        Why You'll Love This Salad
        The sweet and savory balance of flavors is irresistible.
Fresh figs give a unique spin to classic salads.
Perfectly complements both summer barbecues and winter gatherings.

      

Perfecting Your Ingredients

Selecting the right figs is crucial to the quality of your Fig and Walnut Salad. Look for fresh figs that are plump and slightly soft to the touch, which indicates ripeness. Avoid any that are too mushy or have dark spots. When it comes to walnuts, toasting them enhances their natural oils and flavor; simply spread them on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, or until golden and fragrant.

The feta cheese adds a creamy texture that beautifully contrasts with the crunch of the walnuts and the tenderness of the figs. If you are looking for a dairy-free alternative, consider using crumbled avocado or a plant-based feta cheese. Both options provide a creamy element while maintaining the freshness of the salad.

Assembly Tips

When assembling your salad, it's important to layer the ingredients to create a well-distributed flavor profile in every bite. Start with the arugula or your choice of mixed greens as the base, then gently add the quartered figs and toasted walnuts. If using feta, sprinkle it on top rather than mixing it in, as this will help retain its shape and add visual appeal.

To ensure the dressing clings well to the salad without making it soggy, drizzle it just before serving. Toss gently with your hands or a salad tong, being careful not to bruise the figs. A light touch is key; this will maintain the integrity of the figs while ensuring each component is well coated.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your salad:

Salad Ingredients

6 fresh figs, quartered
1 cup walnuts, toasted
4 cups arugula or mixed greens
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Honey Dressing Ingredients

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

Feel free to customize the ingredient quantities based on your preferences!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious salad:

Prepare the Dressing

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

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the arugula, quartered figs, and toasted walnuts. If using, sprinkle the crumbled feta over the top.

Dress the Salad

Drizzle the honey dressing over the salad, tossing gently to coat the ingredients evenly.

Serve

Transfer the salad to a serving platter and enjoy immediately!

This salad is best served fresh, but you can prepare the dressing in advance.

Pro Tips

For added texture, consider adding some sliced apples or pears.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prepare this salad in advance, consider prepping the dressing and chopping the figs and walnuts a few hours before serving. Store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator; it can last for up to a week. Keep the dry ingredients separate until you're ready to serve to prevent the greens from wilting and losing crunch.

On that note, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to two days. However, be aware that the salad may lose some of its textures, particularly the arugula and walnuts, as they will soften over time. To refresh the salad, add a bit more dressing before serving.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

For a twist on this Fig and Walnut Salad, consider adding sliced apples or pears for additional sweetness and crunch. You could also incorporate a handful of dried fruits like cranberries or cherries to further enhance the flavor profile. A sprinkle of pomegranate seeds would add a beautiful color contrast and a burst of tartness.

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled proteins, making it a versatile side dish. Try serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. Another option is to serve it atop toasted bread or as a filling for a wrap, making it a great choice for picnics or packed lunches.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried figs instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh figs provide a juiciness that enhances the salad.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the salad without the dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day.

→ What other nuts can I use?

Pecans or almonds would work beautifully in this salad.

→ Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes! You can omit the feta and use agave syrup instead of honey.