This Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad is the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy, making it a refreshing and nutritious dish for any occasion.
The crisp, juicy apples paired with tart cranberries and toasted pecans bring a delightful mix of flavors, while the creamy feta or goat cheese adds richness.
Drizzled with a simple homemade dressing of olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of honey, this salad is a great choice as a light lunch, a side for your main meal, or even a festive addition to a holiday spread.
Ingredients:
• For the Salad:
• 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
• 2 medium apples (thinly sliced; use Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji for variety)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup pecans (toasted for extra flavor)
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onions (optional)
• For the Dressing:
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Toast the Pecans:
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and let cool.
2. Prepare the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced apples, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and red onions. Add the cheese if desired.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Assemble the Salad:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to coat.
5. Serve Immediately:
Enjoy your fresh and vibrant apple cranberry pecan salad as a light meal or a side dish!
Let me know if you’d like to adjust the recipe.
Variations for the Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad:
Add Protein:
For a more filling meal, top the salad with grilled chicken, turkey breast, or salmon.
Add chickpeas, quinoa, or roasted tofu for a plant-based option.
Swap Nuts:
If you prefer a different crunch, substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even candied pecans for extra sweetness.
Cheese Alternatives:
Replace feta or goat cheese with blue cheese for a tangier flavor, or use shredded Parmesan for a milder option.
Fruit Variations:
Try swapping apples with pears, strawberries, or even citrus slices (like orange or grapefruit) for a seasonal twist.
Sweetness Adjustment:
For a more vibrant flavor, add a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds or dried cherries in place of cranberries.
How to Store:
For the Salad:
Keep the dressing separate: To prevent the greens from wilting, store the salad and dressing separately.
Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Add the apples just before serving to keep them crisp, or toss them with a little lemon juice to prevent browning.
For the Dressing:
Store leftover dressing in a sealed jar or container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Shake well before using again.
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but with these tips, you can extend its shelf life while keeping it delicious! Let me know if you’d like more customization ideas or tips!