Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

If you’re looking for a fresh and delightful dish that screams fall, then this Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans is just what you need! The combination of crisp apples, peppery arugula, and sweet maple pecans creates a salad that’s not only beautiful but also bursting with flavor. It’s one of my all-time favorites because it’s so quick to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

This salad is versatile too! It pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken or can stand alone as a light lunch. Plus, it comes together in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those moments when you need something healthy and delicious in a hurry. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 20 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this salad in no time.
• Flavorful: The blend of sweet apples and crunchy maple pecans creates a taste explosion that will brighten your day.
• Versatile: Perfect as a side dish or main course; just add your favorite protein to make it a meal!
• Seasonal Delight: Celebrate apple season with this fresh, vibrant salad that captures the essence of fall.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with nutrients and wholesome ingredients, it’s a guilt-free addition to any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a look at the simple and wholesome ingredients you’ll need for this fantastic Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans. Each one adds its unique touch to create a deliciously balanced dish!

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 Coating

• 2 Tbsp maple syrup
• pinch of sea salt

For the Balsamic 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 recipe is wonderfully flexible, which means you can customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Crunch: Toss in some toasted sunflower seeds or walnuts for extra texture.
• Change the Cheese: Swap out goat cheese for feta or even a dairy-free alternative if you’re looking for something different.
• Mix Up the Greens: If arugula isn’t your favorite, feel free to use baby spinach or mixed greens instead.
• Fruit Alternatives: Substitute pears or dried cranberries for figs to give the salad another layer of flavor.

How to Make Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

Step 1: Prepare the Maple Pecans

First things first—let’s get those delicious maple pecans ready! Preheat your oven to 350°F. Toss the pecan halves with maple syrup and a pinch of sea salt. This step is essential because roasting them brings out their natural sweetness and adds a wonderful crunch. Spread them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for about 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown. Once they’re done, let them cool before adding them to your salad.

Step 2: Mix the Balsamic Dressing

While your pecans are cooling, whisk together all the ingredients for the balsamic dressing: olive oil, maple syrup, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, pepper, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, and sea salt. Adjusting the seasoning here is key; you want it to be perfectly tangy and sweet so that it complements all the other flavors in your salad beautifully.

Step 3: Assemble Your Salad

In a large bowl, add the fresh arugula as your base. Then arrange your sliced apples, chopped figs, red onion slices, crumbled goat cheese, and those lovely cooled maple pecans on top. Just before serving, drizzle about half of your dressing over everything and toss gently. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor! Serve immediately and enjoy this wonderful mix of textures and tastes.

With this Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans recipe in hand, you’ll be ready to impress friends and family alike! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

Creating a delicious Apple Arugula Salad is easy, especially with these handy tips to elevate your dish!

• Choose the Right Apples: Opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith. This contrast enhances the flavor profile, making each bite more enjoyable.

• Toast the Pecans: Toasting not only brings out the nuttiness of the pecans but also adds a delightful crunch. Be careful not to overdo it; keep an eye on them in the oven!

• Prep Ahead: If you’re short on time, you can prepare the dressing and chop the ingredients ahead of time. This way, you can throw everything together in just minutes when it’s time to eat.

• Experiment with Cheese: If goat cheese isn’t your favorite, try crumbled feta or a plant-based alternative. Each type adds its own unique flavor that can change up the salad’s character.

• Adjust Dressing to Taste: The beauty of this salad lies in its versatility. Feel free to tweak the balsamic dressing based on your taste – add more sweetness with extra maple syrup or a tangy kick with additional lemon juice.

How to Serve Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

This Apple Arugula Salad makes a stunning centerpiece for any table! Its vibrant colors and textures are sure to impress.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or mint adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Edible flowers: For an elegant touch, consider adding edible flowers like nasturtiums or pansies.
• Extra nuts: A few extra toasted pecans scattered on top create visual appeal and enhance that satisfying crunch.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken: Marinated grilled chicken breast complements the salad beautifully while adding protein for a heartier meal.
• Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty, fluffy side dish not only fills you up but also pairs wonderfully with the flavors of apple and arugula.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness echoes the flavors in the salad and adds comforting warmth.
• Crispy Brussels Sprouts: These provide a lovely textural contrast and their savory notes balance out the sweetness of the apples and figs.

By following these tips and serving suggestions, your Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans will undoubtedly become a favorite at your dining table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare many of the ingredients ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or gatherings. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Keep any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best enjoyed fresh, but it will stay good for up to 2 days.
• If you have leftover dressing, store it separately to keep the salad crisp.

Freezing

• This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the delicate greens and fresh fruits.
• You can freeze the maple pecans if you make extra; just ensure they’re stored in a tightly sealed bag or container.

Reheating

• Since this salad is served cold, there’s no need to reheat.
• Simply toss any leftovers back into a bowl and enjoy chilled!

FAQs

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

Can I use other types of cheese in the Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans?

Absolutely! While goat cheese adds a lovely creaminess, feel free to substitute with feta or even a vegan cheese alternative to suit your taste preferences.

What can I add for more protein in the Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans?

Adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa can boost the protein content of this salad without compromising its freshness.

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

The homemade balsamic dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Make sure it’s kept in a sealed container, and give it a good shake before using!

Can I make this salad ahead of time for a gathering?

Yes! You can prepare all components individually and combine them just before serving to maintain freshness.

Is this Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans gluten-free?

Yes! All ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free. Just be sure to check any packaged items like mustard or vinegar for hidden gluten sources.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans is truly special—it’s not only bursting with flavors but also embodies the essence of fall with its refreshing crunch and sweetness. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, this salad is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to try it out; I’m confident you’ll love every bite!