Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

If you’re looking for a refreshing and vibrant dish that captures the essence of fall, then this Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans is just the thing! It’s an absolute delight that combines the crispness of fresh apples with the peppery bite of arugula, and topped with crunchy maple pecans. This salad has quickly become one of my go-to recipes for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike. It’s easy to whip up in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings when you still want something nutritious and delicious.

What makes this Apple Arugula Salad so special is its versatility. You can serve it as a side dish or turn it into a full meal by adding your favorite protein. Whether you’re celebrating apple season or simply craving something fresh and tasty, this salad has got you covered!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: Ready in just 20 minutes, this salad is perfect for those busy nights when time is short.
• Family-friendly: The combination of flavors makes it appealing to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone at the table is happy.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the ingredients in advance and toss them together just before serving for an effortless meal.
• Delicious flavor: The mix of sweet apples, tangy balsamic dressing, and crunchy maple pecans creates a taste that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful Apple Arugula Salad. They are all easy to find and will come together beautifully in your bowl!

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 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 flexibility! You can easily adjust it to suit your taste preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand.

• Add nuts: Toss in some walnuts or almonds for extra crunch if you’re out of pecans.
• Use different cheese: Feta or blue cheese can replace goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Mix in proteins: Grilled chicken or chickpeas can be added to turn this salad into a hearty meal.
• Try seasonal fruits: Swap out apples for pears or even orange slices for a unique twist.

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. This step adds depth by caramelizing the nuts slightly. Spread them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for about 5-7 minutes until they’re toasted and fragrant. Let them cool while you prepare the rest of the salad.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together all the dressing ingredients: olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, pepper, and sea salt. Taste as you go! Adjusting seasoning ensures that every bite bursts with flavor.

Step 3: Assemble Your Salad

In a large salad bowl, add arugula as your base. Arrange the sliced apples, chopped figs, red onion, goat cheese crumbles, and cooled maple pecans on top. Just before serving, drizzle about half of your dressing over everything and gently toss it all together. This harmonizes all those lovely flavors!

Serve immediately and enjoy this wonderful Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans! It’s sure to be a hit at any gathering or simply as a delightful treat for yourself.

Pro Tips for Making Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

This salad is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to customize! Here are some tips to elevate your Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans.

• Choose the Right Apples: Opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith. The contrast in flavors will enhance the overall taste of the salad.

• Toast Your Nuts: To maximize flavor, always toast the pecans before adding them to the salad. Toasting intensifies their nuttiness and adds a delightful crunch.

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dressing and chop the ingredients in advance. Just keep everything separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness.

• Adjust the Dressing: Feel free to tweak the balsamic dressing according to your taste preferences. Adding a bit more lemon juice can give it a refreshing zing!

• Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas. This will make your salad more filling and perfect for lunch or dinner.

How to Serve Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

When it comes to serving this vibrant salad, presentation matters! Here are some thoughtful ways to present your dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or mint on top for an additional layer of flavor and color.
• Pomegranate Seeds: These juicy gems not only add a pop of color but also a burst of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the salad’s ingredients.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Pilaf: A flavorful quinoa pilaf with herbs and spices complements the freshness of the salad while adding hearty protein.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs excellently with the maple pecans, creating a comforting side dish.
• Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers of grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes add a smoky flavor that balances well with the crispy salad.

Enjoy this delightful Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans as part of a balanced meal or as an exciting standalone dish!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh, vibrant flavors throughout the week. Preparing it in advance means you can save time on busy days while still indulging in a delicious and nutritious salad.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Store the dressing separately to prevent the greens from wilting.
• Consume leftovers within 2-3 days for the best taste and texture.

Freezing

• For optimal freshness, this salad is not recommended for freezing as the ingredients may become mushy once thawed.
• However, you can freeze the maple pecans separately and use them later as a topping for other salads or dishes.

Reheating

• If you’ve added protein to your salad, gently reheat it in the microwave for about 30 seconds before serving.
• Avoid reheating the whole salad as that can compromise the texture of the greens and fruit.

FAQs

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

Can I substitute goat cheese in this Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans?

Absolutely! You can use feta cheese or a dairy-free alternative if you’re looking for a non-dairy option. Both will add a lovely creaminess to your salad.

How do I make this Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans vegan?

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

What types of apples work best for this salad?

For a balance of sweetness and tartness, try using Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith apples. Each variety will bring its unique flavor profile to your salad.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of fall’s bounty! It’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor—perfect for family gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner. I hope you enjoy making this refreshing salad as much as I do. Feel free to get creative and customize it to your taste. Happy cooking!