A refreshing salad featuring crisp apples, toasted pecans, and a tangy-sweet citrus dressing.
Prepare the romaine lettuce by washing and tearing it into bite-sized pieces.
Ensure the lettuce is thoroughly dried to prevent a soggy salad.
Slice the red onion thinly and add it to the salad bowl.
Soak the onion slices in cold water for a few minutes to reduce their sharpness.
Add the crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans to the bowl.
Toast the pecans in a dry skillet for a few minutes to enhance their flavor.
Slice the apple and add it to the salad.
Toss the apple slices in a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning.
In a small bowl, whisk together the cider vinegar, honey, poppy seeds, pepper, and orange juice.
Adjust the sweetness or acidity of the dressing to your taste by adding more honey or vinegar.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Add the dressing just before serving to keep the salad crisp.
Serve the salad immediately and enjoy.
Garnish with additional poppy seeds or a sprig of fresh herbs for presentation.