Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant dish to brighten your table, then this Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans is just what you need! This salad is a delightful medley of sweet and savory flavors that captures the essence of fall. With crunchy roasted maple pecans, crisp apple slices, and creamy goat cheese, it’s no wonder this recipe has become one of my favorites. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, making it a versatile addition to any meal.

What I love most about this salad is how quickly it comes together—just 20 minutes from start to finish! Whether you’re serving it as a side or as a light meal topped with protein, this salad will surely impress your guests and make your taste buds dance.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: Ready in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
• Flavorful combination: The sweet apples and maple pecans pair beautifully with the peppery arugula.
• Versatile dish: Enjoy it as a side salad or add protein for a satisfying main course.
• Perfect for gatherings: Impress family and friends with this colorful and delicious dish.
• Healthy ingredients: Packed with wholesome fruits and nuts that nourish your body.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Apple Arugula Salad is all about simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 Pecan Topping

• 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

One of the best things about this salad is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add more nuts: Toss in walnuts or almonds for an extra crunch.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute goat cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative for a vegan-friendly option.
• Change the greens: Swap out arugula for spinach or mixed greens to suit your taste.
• Sweeten it up: Add dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds for an added burst of sweetness.

How to Make Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

Step 1: Roast the Pecans

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a bowl, toss the pecans with maple syrup and a pinch of sea salt. This step not only enhances their flavor but also gives them that satisfying crunch. Spread them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for about 5-7 minutes until they are toasted and slightly darkened. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!

Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing

While the pecans cool, grab a small bowl and whisk together all the dressing ingredients—olive oil, maple syrup, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, pepper, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, and sea salt. Adjust the seasoning to taste; this dressing brings everything together beautifully.

Step 3: Assemble Your Salad

In a large salad bowl, add the fresh arugula as your base. Arrange sliced apples, chopped figs, red onion, roasted pecans, and crumbled goat cheese on top of the greens. Just before serving, drizzle about half of your homemade dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together. This ensures every bite is bursting with flavor!

Now sit back and enjoy your lovely Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans—it’s sure to be a hit at any table!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

Creating the perfect Apple Arugula Salad is easy with a few handy tips that will ensure your dish shines.

• Choose the Right Apples: Opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Honeycrisp and Granny Smith. This variety adds dimension to the flavor profile, making each bite exciting.

• Toast the Pecans for Extra Crunch: Toasting your pecans enhances their natural nuttiness and crunch. Just a few minutes in the oven makes all the difference in taste and texture.

• Prep Ahead for Quick Assembly: If you’re short on time, you can slice the apples and prepare the dressing ahead of time. This way, you can quickly toss everything together when you’re ready to serve.

• Adjust Your Dressing to Taste: Start with half of the dressing on your salad and then add more as needed. Everyone has different preferences, so this allows guests to adjust it to their liking!

• Try Different Cheeses: If goat cheese isn’t your favorite, consider trying feta or a creamy blue cheese. Each option brings a unique flavor that complements the salad beautifully.

How to Serve Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

Serving this vibrant salad can be as fun as making it! The bright colors and variety of textures create an appealing dish that’s sure to impress.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or mint over your salad just before serving for an aromatic touch.
• Edible Flowers: Adding edible flowers not only makes the dish visually stunning but also elevates its gourmet appeal.
• Extra Crunch: For added texture, consider including some crispy shallots or fried onions on top right before serving.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf with herbs can complement this salad beautifully and provide a healthy dose of protein.
• Grilled Chicken: Simple grilled chicken breast seasoned with herbs is a great protein addition that pairs well without overpowering the salad’s flavors.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted with just a hint of seasoning offer a warm, comforting side that balances out the freshness of your salad.
• Vegetable Soup: A light vegetable soup can serve as a comforting starter that warms up any meal featuring this refreshing salad.

Enjoy crafting this delightful Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans! It’s not just food; it’s an experience, perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare components in advance to enjoy a fresh and vibrant salad throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Keep the dressing separate to prevent the greens from wilting.
• Consume leftovers within 2-3 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• This salad is not suitable for freezing, as the ingredients will lose their texture and freshness once thawed.
• However, you can freeze any leftover pecans if you have them. Just ensure they are stored in a well-sealed bag or container.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat this salad; it’s best enjoyed cold!
• If you prefer warmed pecans, you can briefly re-toast them in a skillet on low heat for a few minutes before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans.

Can I make Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans without goat cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute goat cheese with feta cheese or leave it out altogether for a lighter version.

How long does Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans last in the fridge?

The salad is best consumed within 2-3 days. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat!

Is Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans gluten-free?

Yes! All ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe option for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I add protein to my Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, roasted chickpeas, or quinoa would be excellent additions to make this salad more filling.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about this refreshing Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans! It’s perfect for gatherings, meal prep, or just enjoying on your own. The blend of flavors and textures makes every bite special. Enjoy creating this delightful dish, and don’t hesitate to share your experience. Happy cooking!