Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

If you’re looking for a salad that’s as delightful as it is simple, you’ve come to the right place with this Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans. This recipe is a cherished favorite in my home, especially during the crisp, colorful days of fall. The combination of sweet apples, peppery arugula, and crunchy maple pecans creates a medley of flavors that dances on your taste buds. Plus, it comes together in just 20 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

What makes this salad truly special is its versatility. Whether you’re serving it alongside roasted chicken or enjoying it as a light meal on its own with some added protein, it always impresses. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it will become a go-to dish for all occasions!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, making weeknight meals a breeze.
• Bursting with flavor: The combination of sweet apples and savory goat cheese will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, this salad fits right in.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prep the ingredients in advance and toss them together when you’re ready to serve.
• Healthy and satisfying: Packed with nutritious ingredients, it’s both filling and wholesome.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients that make this salad shine! Each component brings its own unique flavor to the table, ensuring every bite is delicious.

For the Salad

• 3 apples (sliced very thin)
• 5 oz arugula
• 1/4 cup red onion (sliced thin)
• 1/2 cup figs (chopped)
• 1/2 cup goat cheese crumbles
• 1 cup pecan halves

For the Maple Pecans

• 2 Tbsp maple syrup
• pinch of sea salt

For the Dressing

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 2 tsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1 garlic clove (minced)
• 3 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1/4-1/2 tsp sea salt (or to taste)

Variations

This salad is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add different fruits: Swap out apples for pears or pomegranate seeds for a burst of color and flavor.
• Change the cheese: If goat cheese isn’t your thing, feta or blue cheese would be fantastic alternatives.
• Incorporate proteins: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas to turn this salad into a hearty main dish.
• Experiment with greens: While arugula is lovely here, spinach or mixed greens can also work beautifully.

How to Make Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Toss the pecans with maple syrup and a pinch of sea salt. Arranging them on a parchment-lined baking sheet allows them to roast evenly. Bake for about 5-7 minutes until they are toasted and slightly darkened. This step enhances their flavor and adds delightful crunch!

Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing

In a bowl, whisk together all the dressing ingredients: olive oil, maple syrup, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, pepper, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, and sea salt. Adjust seasoning to taste. This dressing ties everything together and brings out the best in each ingredient.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl, add the arugula as your base. Then arrange sliced apples, chopped figs, red onion, goat cheese crumbles, and toasted pecans on top. Just before serving, drizzle about half of your dressing over the salad and give it a gentle toss. This final touch ensures every bite is bursting with flavor!

And there you have it—a beautiful Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans that’s sure to impress! Enjoy every crispy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

Making a salad can be simple and satisfying, especially when you want to impress your family or friends. Here are some pro tips to elevate your Apple Arugula Salad!

• Choose the right apples: Opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith. This balance adds depth to the flavor profile of your salad.

• Toast the pecans carefully: Keep an eye on the pecans while they toast; they can go from perfectly golden to burnt in seconds! Toasting enhances their nuttiness and adds a delightful crunch.

• Make it ahead of time: You can prepare the dressing and chop all your ingredients a few hours before serving. Just toss everything together right before serving to keep the arugula fresh and crisp.

• Experiment with cheese: If goat cheese isn’t your favorite, try feta or even a dairy-free alternative. Each option brings its unique flavor that can complement the sweetness of the apples beautifully.

• Adjust the dressing: Don’t hesitate to tweak the balsamic dressing according to your taste. A splash of orange juice or a dash of honey can personalize it further!

How to Serve Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

Serving your Apple Arugula Salad is just as important as making it! Here are some delightful ways to present this beautiful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkle some freshly chopped basil or mint on top for an aromatic finish that brightens up the flavor.
• Additional cheese: Add extra crumbles of goat cheese or dollops of ricotta for those who love creamy textures.
• Edible flowers: For a stunning presentation, consider garnishing with edible flowers like nasturtiums or pansies, which add color and elegance.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinate chicken pieces in olive oil, lemon, and herbs, then grill them until juicy. These skewers provide protein that pairs wonderfully with the salad.

• Quinoa Pilaf: A fluffy quinoa dish mixed with seasonal vegetables and herbs makes for a hearty side that complements the freshness of your salad.

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Toss sweet potato cubes in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until caramelized. Their sweetness will contrast beautifully with the tangy salad.

• Hummus Platter: Serve a variety of hummus flavors with pita chips and raw veggies. This offers a healthy dip option that rounds out your meal nicely.

Let your creativity shine when presenting this Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans! Whether as part of a larger spread or on its own, it’s sure to delight everyone at the table. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans is a fantastic option for meal prep! Not only does it come together quickly, but it also stores well, making it perfect for busy days when you want a healthy meal ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent the greens from wilting.
• Consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• This salad is not recommended for freezing due to the texture of the ingredients, particularly the arugula and apples.
• If you want to prepare components ahead of time, consider freezing just the maple pecans separately.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat this salad; it’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
• If you’ve stored leftovers, simply toss them with fresh dressing before serving.

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions about the Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans:

Can I use different nuts in the Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans?

Absolutely! While pecans add a lovely flavor and crunch, you can substitute walnuts or almonds if you prefer.

What can I add to make my Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans more filling?

To turn this salad into a complete meal, consider adding grilled chicken, quinoa, or chickpeas for extra protein!

How long will the dressing last for my Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans?

Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, the balsamic dressing will last about a week. Just give it a good shake before using!

Can I make this salad vegan-friendly?

Yes! You can easily make this salad vegan by omitting goat cheese or substituting it with a plant-based cheese alternative.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans as much as I do! It’s not just a beautiful dish; it’s bursting with flavors that celebrate the fall season. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or as part of your meal prep, this salad is sure to impress. Happy cooking and enjoy every bite!