Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

If you’re looking for a fresh and vibrant dish to brighten up your meals, this Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans is just the thing! With its crunchy roasted pecans, crisp apples, and tangy goat cheese, it’s a delightful combination that celebrates the flavors of fall. I love serving this salad at family gatherings or on busy weeknights when I want something quick yet satisfying. Plus, it comes together in just 20 minutes—perfect for anyone with a packed schedule!

Not only does this salad taste amazing, but it’s also versatile. You can pair it with grilled chicken for a hearty meal or keep it light as a side dish. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: This salad comes together in just 20 minutes—ideal for a last-minute dinner idea!
• Flavor-packed: The combination of sweet apples and crunchy maple pecans creates an irresistible taste experience.
• Versatile options: Serve it as a main dish or a side; it complements various meals beautifully!
• Healthy ingredients: Packed with fresh fruits and greens, this salad is not only delicious but also nutritious.
• Crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re hosting friends or just enjoying family dinner, everyone will love this refreshing dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans is simple! You’ll find that these wholesome components blend beautifully together to create the perfect balance of flavors.

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

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

• Swap the cheese: Try feta or blue cheese instead of goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Add protein: Toss in some grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa to make it more filling.
• Use different nuts: If you’re not a fan of pecans, walnuts or almonds work beautifully too!
• Change up the dressing: A honey mustard vinaigrette would also add a nice twist to this flavorful salad.

How to Make Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This step is important because toasting brings out the natural oils and enhances the flavor of the pecans. Toss them with maple syrup and a pinch of sea salt before spreading them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for about 5-7 minutes until they are toasted and darkened slightly. Once done, let them cool while you prepare the rest of the salad.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing

In a bowl, combine all the dressing ingredients: olive oil, maple syrup, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, pepper, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, and sea salt. Whisk until well-blended. Adjust seasoning to taste; this dressing will elevate all the flavors in your salad!

Step 3: Assemble Your Salad

Start by adding arugula to a large bowl—this will be your base. Next, arrange the sliced apples, chopped figs, red onion slices, goat cheese crumbles, and toasted pecans over the greens. Just before serving, drizzle about half of your dressing over top and give everything a gentle toss. This helps ensure every bite is coated in deliciousness.

Enjoy every bite of your refreshing Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans! It’s not just food; it’s a celebration of flavors that will surely put smiles on faces around your table!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

Creating the perfect Apple Arugula Salad is all about balance and freshness, and I’m here to help you nail it!

• Choose fresh ingredients: Opt for crisp, seasonal apples and vibrant arugula. Fresh produce not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful pop of color to your salad.

• Toast the pecans just right: Keep an eye on your pecans while they toast. A few extra seconds can make a big difference between perfectly golden and burnt. This step enhances their flavor and adds that irresistible crunch.

• Adjust dressing to taste: Everyone has different preferences when it comes to dressing. Start with less, taste, and add more if needed. This way, you’ll ensure that the flavors are just right for your palate.

• Mix textures: Don’t be afraid to play with textures! Adding crispy apple slices alongside creamy goat cheese creates a delightful contrast that makes each bite exciting.

• Make it a meal: For a heartier salad, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas. These protein options will make this dish satisfying enough for lunch or dinner!

How to Serve Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

Presentation is key when serving up this delightful salad. Here are some fun ideas to elevate your dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped herbs: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or mint on top for an aromatic finish that brightens the flavors.
• Extra feta or cheese: Add a few extra crumbles of goat cheese or even feta for those who love a cheesy touch in their salads.
• Pomegranate seeds: These not only look stunning but also provide a burst of juicy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf mixed with herbs and lemon zest complements the salad’s flavors while adding protein and fiber.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes balances the tartness of the apples and figs, creating harmony on your plate.
• Grilled Vegetables: A mix of seasonal grilled veggies brings a smoky depth and pairs wonderfully with the fresh elements of this salad.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of warm, crusty bread for some comforting carbs. Perfect for soaking up any leftover balsamic dressing!

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans will not only taste amazing but will also impress everyone at your table! Enjoy every bite!

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 ahead of time, making it a breeze to throw together when you’re ready to serve.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Keep the dressing separate to prevent the greens from wilting.
• Use within 2-3 days for the best freshness.

Freezing

• This salad is not ideal for freezing due to the fresh ingredients, especially the arugula and apples.
• Instead, consider preparing just the roasted pecans and dressing ahead of time for later use.

Reheating

• Since this salad is served cold, there’s no need to reheat it.
• If you’ve prepared components ahead of time, simply assemble them before serving.

FAQs

Got questions about this delightful Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans? You’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I substitute goat cheese in the Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based feta or omit it altogether. The salad will still be delicious and full of flavor!

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

The salad will stay fresh for about 2-3 days when stored properly. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to enjoy it!

What other nuts can I use instead of pecans?

Feel free to experiment with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Each nut brings a unique flavor that complements the salad beautifully.

Can I add protein to the Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans?

Yes! Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa are great additions that will turn this salad into a hearty meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans! It’s a beautiful blend of flavors and textures that truly captures the essence of autumn. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it as a main course with added protein, it’s sure to impress. Enjoy every crunchy bite and don’t forget to share your experience! Happy cooking!