Raw Mushroom Apple Salad

Paper-thin raw cremini meet crisp Honeycrisp apples in this bright American farmers-market lunch salad. A lemon-Dijon-maple dressing lifts earthy mushrooms, peppery arugula, and toasted walnuts without cooking a thing.

Serves 4 · 20 min prep

Estimate for one serving

• 285 cal
• 8g protein
• 22g carbs
• 20g fat
• 3g fiber

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Ingredients

• 12 oz fresh cremini mushrooms
• 2 medium crisp Honeycrisp apples
• 5 oz baby arugula
• 1/2 cup toasted walnuts
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1 large lemon
• 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp maple syrup
• 3/4 tsp flaky sea salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/3 cup shaved Parmesan

Instructions

1. 1Wipe the mushrooms clean with a damp towel and trim the stems. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice them paper-thin so they stay tender and raw.
2. 2Core the apples and cut them into thin matchsticks or half-moons, leaving the skin on for color and crunch. Toss the apple pieces immediately with a squeeze of lemon juice to keep them bright.
3. 3In a large mixing bowl, whisk the remaining lemon juice with olive oil, Dijon, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until the dressing emulsifies and looks glossy.
4. 4Add the raw mushroom slices to the dressing and toss gently so every piece gets coated; let them sit 5 minutes so the acid softens them slightly while keeping their earthy snap.
5. 5Fold in the arugula, apple matchsticks, parsley, and thyme leaves. Toss lightly with clean hands or tongs until the greens are just dressed and nothing wilts.
6. 6Scatter the toasted walnuts and shaved Parmesan over the top. Give one final gentle toss so the cheese and nuts nestle into the salad.
7. 7Taste and adjust with an extra pinch of flaky salt or cracked pepper if needed. The mushrooms should taste clean and meaty against the sweet-tart apple.
8. 8Divide among four bowls or pack into lunch containers with the walnuts kept separate until serving so they stay crunchy. Serve immediately while everything is crisp and cold.