Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

If you’re looking for a fresh and vibrant dish that celebrates the essence of fall, you’ll absolutely love this Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans! This salad is a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors, making it a perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy dinner at home or hosting friends for a gathering, this salad shines as both a side and a main dish when paired with your favorite protein.

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity and the burst of flavors from each ingredient. The crispness of the apples, the peppery arugula, and the sweetness of maple pecans come together to create a delightful experience in every bite. Plus, it’s quick to whip up—perfect for those busy weeknights when you still want something deliciously satisfying!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: This salad comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for last-minute meals.
• Packed with flavor: The combination of apples, figs, and maple pecans creates a symphony of tastes that will please everyone at your table.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a side or add protein to make it a full meal. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or chickpeas!
• Seasonal ingredients: Celebrate apple season with fresh produce that brings color and nutrition to your plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for this Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans are wholesome and easy to gather. Each one plays an important role in creating that beautiful balance of flavors! Let’s take a look:

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 parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences.

• Swap the cheese: If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, try feta or leave it out entirely for a vegan option.
• Add some crunch: Toss in some sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for extra texture.
• Change up the fruit: Pears can be a lovely alternative to apples, adding their own unique sweetness.
• Make it grain-based: Add quinoa or farro for more substance, turning this salad into a hearty meal.

How to Make Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Toss the pecans with maple syrup and a pinch of sea salt. Arranging them on a parchment-lined baking sheet allows them to toast evenly without sticking. Bake for about 5-7 minutes until they’re slightly darkened and fragrant. This step enhances their natural flavor and adds that delicious crunch we all love!

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

While your pecans are cooling, whisk together all the dressing ingredients in a bowl. Adjust seasoning as needed because every palate is different! A well-balanced dressing ties all components together beautifully.

Step 3: Assemble Your Salad

In a large salad bowl, layer in your arugula first. Then artfully arrange sliced apples, figs, red onion, goat cheese crumbles, and those yummy toasted pecans over the greens. Just before serving, drizzle about half of your prepared dressing over top and gently toss everything together so each bite is filled with flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy this refreshing Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

Creating the perfect Apple Arugula Salad is a breeze, especially with these handy tips to elevate your dish!

• Choose the right apples: Opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Honeycrisp and Granny Smith. This combination enhances the flavor profile and adds delightful contrast in taste.

• Toast the pecans properly: Keep a close eye on the pecans while they bake. They can go from perfectly toasted to burnt in a matter of seconds! Toasting them just until fragrant brings out their natural sweetness and crunch.

• Make it ahead: If you’re prepping for a gathering, you can slice the apples and make the dressing in advance. Just toss everything together right before serving to keep the arugula fresh and crisp.

• Experiment with cheeses: While goat cheese adds creaminess, try using feta or even a dairy-free alternative if you prefer. Each cheese brings its unique flavor, allowing you to customize your salad experience.

• Add protein for a full meal: For a heartier salad, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa. These additions make it perfect for lunch or dinner and keep you satisfied longer.

How to Serve Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

This salad not only tastes fantastic but also looks vibrant and inviting! Here are some creative ideas on how to present this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh mint or parsley adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the salad beautifully.
• Pomegranate seeds: These jewel-like seeds provide a pop of color and an extra layer of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the apple and balsamic flavors.
• Lemon zest: A light grating of lemon zest over the top brightens up the whole dish, enhancing its aromatic qualities.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated in herbs and spices, these skewers are juicy and flavorful, making them an excellent protein addition alongside your salad.
• Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa mixed with vegetables is not only nutritious but also offers a satisfying texture that works well with the crunch of your salad.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness pairs beautifully with the salad’s flavors while adding warmth to your meal—perfect for cozy fall dinners.
• Whole Grain Bread: A slice of crusty whole grain bread is ideal for soaking up any leftover dressing on your plate; it’s simple yet satisfying!

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans will shine at any table. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans is an excellent choice for meal prep! You can easily prepare components in advance, making it a convenient option for busy days when you want something healthy yet delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to avoid wilting the greens.
• Consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad as the fresh ingredients, particularly arugula and apples, do not thaw well.
• However, you can freeze the maple pecans separately if desired. Just make sure they are cool and stored in an airtight container.

Reheating

• This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
• If you’ve added protein like grilled chicken or tofu, heat only those components in a microwave or on a stovetop before mixing them back into the salad with fresh ingredients.

FAQs

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

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans in the Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts for a different flavor profile while maintaining that delightful crunch.

How can I customize my Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans?

You can add various toppings such as sunflower seeds, cranberries, or other fruits like pears for extra flavor. Experimenting with different cheeses or proteins like grilled chicken can also enhance your salad experience!

What dressing pairs best with Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans?

The balsamic dressing featured in this recipe complements the sweetness of apples and the nuttiness of pecans perfectly. You could also try a honey mustard dressing for a unique twist!

How long will this Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans keep in the fridge?

When stored properly, this salad will remain fresh for about 2-3 days. Just remember to keep your dressing separate until serving!

Final Thoughts

This Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans is truly special because it brings together a medley of flavors and textures that celebrate the beauty of fall. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! Whether it’s for a festive gathering or just a cozy dinner at home, this salad is sure to impress. Happy cooking and enjoy every bite!