Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

If you’re looking for a refreshing salad that bursts with flavor and crunch, this Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans is it! It’s one of those recipes that I find myself coming back to time and again, especially when the weather turns crisp and apple season is in full swing. The sweet and nutty maple pecans combined with the tart apples create a delightful harmony of flavors that’s perfect for everything from cozy family dinners to festive gatherings with friends.

What I love most about this salad is how quickly it comes together—just 20 minutes! You can enjoy it as a light meal or pair it with your favorite protein for something more filling. Trust me, once you try this salad, it may just become your new go-to!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: This salad is ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Fresh and flavorful: The combination of crisp apples, peppery arugula, and sweet figs creates a taste sensation you won’t forget.
• Nutty crunch: The roasted maple pecans add a delightful crunch that elevates the entire dish.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy it as a side dish or add grilled chicken or chickpeas for a complete meal.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare the dressing and pecans in advance, saving you time when you’re ready to serve!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store. 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 Dressing

• 2 Tbsp maple syrup
• Pinch of sea salt
• 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 parts about this salad is its versatility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add some protein: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for an added boost of energy.
• Try different nuts: Swap out the pecans for walnuts or almonds if that’s what you have available.
• Use seasonal fruits: Substitute pears or berries instead of apples for a different twist on flavor.
• Go dairy-free: Omit the goat cheese or replace it with your favorite dairy-free cheese alternative.

How to Make Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Toss those lovely pecan halves with maple syrup and a pinch of sea salt. This step is crucial because roasting brings out their natural nuttiness and adds an irresistible crunch. Spread them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for about 5-7 minutes until they’re golden brown. Keep an eye on them—they can go from toasted to burnt pretty quickly!

Step 2: Make the Dressing

While the pecans cool, whisk together all the dressing ingredients: olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic, maple syrup, pepper, and sea salt. Mixing these together creates a tangy and sweet dressing that perfectly complements the salad. Taste it before serving; adjusting seasoning makes all the difference!

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl, combine the arugula as your base. Layer on those beautiful apple slices, chopped figs, sliced red onion, goat cheese crumbles, and those crunchy roasted pecans. Right before serving, drizzle about half of your delicious dressing over top. Toss gently to combine everything without bruising those tender greens—this ensures every bite is bursting with flavor!

Now go ahead and enjoy this fresh Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans—it’s sure to impress your family and friends!

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 fresh ingredients: Using fresh, high-quality apples and arugula will enhance the salad’s overall flavor and texture, making every bite more enjoyable.
• Customize with seasonal fruits: Feel free to swap in other seasonal fruits like pears or pomegranate seeds. This keeps the salad exciting and allows you to enjoy new flavors throughout the year.
• Make dressing ahead of time: Preparing the balsamic dressing in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just give it a good shake before drizzling over your salad for a burst of flavor.
• Toast pecans for extra crunch: Toasting the pecans not only adds a delightful crunch but also enhances their nutty flavor. Keep an eye on them while baking to prevent burning!
• Add protein for a full meal: If you’re looking to make this salad a complete meal, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa. This will increase the protein content and keep you satisfied longer.

How to Serve Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

When it comes to serving this delightful salad, presentation is key! A colorful display not only makes it visually appealing but also entices your guests to dig in.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle some freshly chopped herbs like parsley or mint on top for added freshness and color.
• Extra cheese: Crumble a bit more goat cheese on top just before serving for an extra creamy touch that complements the salad beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Pilaf: A light and fluffy quinoa pilaf made with vegetables is a perfect side that keeps things healthy while adding more texture and flavor.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted with olive oil and spices bring out natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the tart apples in the salad.
• Grilled Chicken Skewers: These juicy skewers add a hearty protein option that complements the salad beautifully without overwhelming its flavors.
• Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread or artisan rolls can be served on the side, perfect for scooping up any leftover dressing!

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your family or guests with this scrumptious Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans! Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare many of the components ahead of time, making it easy to assemble a fresh and delicious salad whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Try to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to avoid soggy greens.
• Enjoy leftovers within 2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to the fresh ingredients, especially the arugula and apples, which may change texture upon thawing.

Reheating

• This salad is best enjoyed cold. If you’ve added protein that needs reheating, do so separately and then add it back on top before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans.

Can I use different types of apples for my Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans?

Absolutely! Varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work beautifully. Choose your favorite based on desired sweetness or tartness!

How can I make this Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans vegan?

To make it vegan, simply omit the goat cheese or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative. The rest of the ingredients are already vegan-friendly!

What can I serve alongside this salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or even as a light starter before a main dish.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans as much as I do! It’s not just a dish; it’s a celebration of fall flavors and a delightful way to enjoy fresh ingredients. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it solo, I know you’ll love every bite. Happy cooking!