Warm Apple & Pecan Sauté
This quick and healthy Warm Apple & Pecan Sauté offers a delightful 'deconstructed' apple crumble experience, featuring tender, spiced apples and crunchy, toasted pecans.
For 2 servings
Wash, core, and dice the apples into approximately 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) pieces. You can leave the skin on for added fiber and color.
Heat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat. Add the butter (or coconut oil) and allow it to melt and coat the pan.
Add the diced apples to the hot pan. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples begin to soften slightly but still hold their shape.
Sprinkle the ground cinnamon, maple syrup (if using), and a pinch of salt over the apples. Stir well to ensure the apples are evenly coated.
Add the chopped pecans to the pan. Continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the pecans are lightly toasted and fragrant, and the apples are tender-crisp.
Taste and adjust sweetness or cinnamon if desired. Remove from heat immediately to prevent overcooking the apples.
Serve warm on its own, as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or even with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Choose firm, sweet-tart apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala for the best texture and flavor balance. Softer apples may become mushy.
- 2Don't overcrowd the pan; if making a larger batch, cook the apples in two batches to ensure they sauté rather than steam, which helps them brown nicely.
- 3For extra richness, a tiny splash of vanilla extract can be added with the cinnamon and sweetener.
- 4To make this a more substantial breakfast, serve over a bed of warm quinoa or steel-cut oats.
Adapt it for your goals.
Fruit Swap
Substitute apples with pears, peaches, or a mix of berries for a different fruity profile. Adjust cooking time as needed for softer fruits.
Nut & Seed BoostNut & Seed Boost
Swap pecans for walnuts, almonds, or even a mix of seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for varied textures and nutrients.
Spice It UpSpice It Up
Add a pinch of nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom along with the cinnamon for a more complex warm spice blend.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Apples are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Healthy Fats & Antioxidants
Pecans provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, protein, and antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage.
Naturally Sweetened
With minimal added sugar (optional maple syrup), this dish relies on the natural sweetness of apples, making it a healthier alternative to many desserts.
Frequently asked questions
Firm, sweet-tart apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, or Granny Smith (if you prefer more tartness) work best. They hold their shape well during cooking and offer a good flavor balance.
