Pecan & Apple Salad with Maple Vinaigrette
This vibrant Pecan & Apple Salad features crisp mixed greens, sweet apple slices, crunchy toasted pecans, and tangy goat cheese, all brought together with a homemade maple vinaigrette. It's a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors with delightful textural contrasts.
For 2 servings
**Prepare the Vinaigrette:** In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, pure maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined and emulsified. Set aside.
**Prepare the Apple:** Wash and core the apple. Thinly slice the apple into bite-sized pieces. If preparing ahead, toss with a squeeze of lemon juice to prevent browning.
**Assemble the Greens:** In a large salad bowl, place the mixed greens.
**Add Toppings:** Evenly distribute the thinly sliced apple, toasted pecan halves, crumbled goat cheese, and thinly sliced red onion (if using) over the mixed greens.
**Dress the Salad:** Just before serving, drizzle the prepared maple vinaigrette over the salad. Start with about half the dressing and add more to taste.
**Toss and Serve:** Gently toss the salad to ensure all ingredients are lightly coated with the dressing. Serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1**Toast Pecans for Flavor:** If your pecans aren't pre-toasted, spread them on a baking sheet and toast in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, or in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, until fragrant. Let cool completely before adding to the salad.
- 2**Prevent Apple Browning:** To keep apple slices from browning, toss them lightly with a teaspoon of lemon juice or a splash of orange juice immediately after slicing.
- 3**Dress Just Before Serving:** Always dress salads right before serving to prevent the greens from wilting and becoming soggy. If preparing ahead, store dressing and salad components separately.
- 4**Customize Your Greens:** While spring mix or arugula works wonderfully, feel free to use your favorite greens like baby spinach, butter lettuce, or even chopped romaine for a different texture.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
Add grilled chicken, pan-seared salmon, or roasted chickpeas for a more substantial meal.
Cheese SwapCheese Swap
Substitute crumbled feta, blue cheese, or shaved Parmesan for the goat cheese to alter the flavor profile.
Seasonal Fruits & NutsSeasonal Fruits & Nuts
Experiment with other fruits like pears or dried cranberries, and different nuts such as walnuts or candied almonds.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Mixed greens and apples provide dietary fiber, aiding digestion, promoting gut health, and contributing to a feeling of fullness.
Healthy Fats
Pecans and olive oil contribute monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health and can help reduce bad cholesterol levels.
Vitamins and Antioxidants
This salad is packed with essential vitamins (like Vitamin K from greens, Vitamin C from apples) and antioxidants from its fresh ingredients, supporting overall well-being and immune function.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can prepare the vinaigrette and chop the apple (tossing with lemon juice) and other components a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble and dress the salad just before serving for the best freshness.
