Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

If you’re looking for a salad that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, this Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans is just the ticket! It’s bursting with fall flavors and colors, making it a perfect centerpiece for any gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner. The sweetness of the apples and figs pairs beautifully with the peppery arugula, while the crunchy maple pecans add that delightful crunch we all love. Plus, it only takes 20 minutes to whip up, so you can spend more time enjoying it and less time in the kitchen!

This salad shines at family gatherings or as a bright addition to your dinner table. It’s versatile enough to be a side dish or a satisfying main when you toss in some protein. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 20 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of sweet apples, savory goat cheese, and crunchy pecans creates an explosion of flavors in every bite.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh produce and wholesome ingredients, this salad is as nutritious as it is delicious.
• Versatile Dish: Whether served as an appetizer or main course, this salad fits into any meal plan beautifully.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the ingredients ahead of time for an easy assembly when you’re ready to eat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that will make this Apple Arugula Salad sing! You probably have most of these in your pantry and fridge already.

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 things about this recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences!

• Change the Greens: If arugula isn’t your thing, try using spinach or mixed greens for a milder flavor.
• Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein that makes this salad even heartier.
• Switch Up the Cheese: Crumbled feta or even dairy-free cheese can give new flavors while keeping it creamy.
• Mix in Nuts: Try walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for a different texture and taste.

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 ensures they toast evenly without sticking. Bake for about 5-7 minutes until they are slightly darkened and fragrant. This step is crucial because toasted nuts bring out their natural oils and intensify their flavor. Once done, let them cool.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing

While your pecans cool, grab a bowl and whisk together all the balsamic dressing ingredients. Adjust seasoning to taste! This dressing pulls everything together; it’s tangy yet sweet—just what you need to complement those fresh salad ingredients.

Step 3: Assemble Your Salad

In a large salad bowl, layer your arugula first. Then artfully arrange your sliced apples, figs, red onion, goat cheese crumbles, and those beautiful roasted pecans on top. Just before serving, drizzle about half of the dressing over everything and toss gently to combine. This last step ensures each bite is coated with that delicious dressing while keeping everything looking gorgeous.

Now go ahead—serve up this lovely Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans and enjoy every delightful bite!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

This salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, and with these pro tips, you can enhance its deliciousness even more!

• Choose the Right Apples: Opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples like Fuji and Granny Smith. This balance brings complexity to your salad, making each bite exciting.
• Toast the Pecans Properly: Bake the pecans until they are just golden brown. This enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy goat cheese and juicy apples.
• Make Ahead Dressing: Prepare the balsamic dressing in advance and store it in the fridge. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh arugula and figs to ensure vibrant flavors. Fresh ingredients elevate any dish, making your salad taste as good as possible!
• Adjust for Personal Taste: Don’t hesitate to tweak the seasoning of the dressing or add extra ingredients like nuts or seeds to suit your preferences. Cooking should be fun and tailored to your taste!

How to Serve Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

Serving this Apple Arugula Salad can be as creative as you want! Whether it’s a casual family dinner or an elegant gathering, this salad is sure to impress.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some fresh basil or mint on top for an additional layer of flavor and freshness.
• Extra Goat Cheese: Crumble some extra goat cheese right before serving for an added creamy texture that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
• Pomegranate Seeds: Add a handful of pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory elements of the salad.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken Breast: A simple grilled chicken breast seasoned with herbs makes a great protein addition that pairs well with the freshness of the salad.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf seasoned with lemon zest provides a nutty flavor that complements both the apple and arugula beautifully.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy will add warmth and heartiness to your meal, harmonizing wonderfully with the salad’s bright flavors.
• Vegetable Soup: A warm bowl of vegetable soup can be a comforting side that contrasts nicely with the crisp salad, making it perfect for cooler weather.

Enjoy crafting this gorgeous Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans! It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings warmth to your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans is an excellent choice for meal prep! You can easily prepare the components ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy this delightful salad throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Keep the dressing separate to prevent the greens from wilting.
• Consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad as the ingredients do not hold up well once thawed, especially arugula and apples.
• Consider preparing the pecans and dressing in advance for future use instead.

Reheating

• This salad is best enjoyed cold; however, if you prefer it slightly warmed, gently toss it in a pan over low heat for a minute or two.
• Avoid microwaving as it may wilt the greens and change the texture of the apples.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making an Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans!

Can I use other types of cheese instead of goat cheese?

Absolutely! If goat cheese isn’t your preference, feel free to substitute it with feta cheese or a dairy-free cheese alternative.

How can I make my Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans more filling?

To make your salad heartier, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa. These additions will provide extra protein and make it a complete meal!

Can I use different nuts in this recipe?

Yes! While pecans add a lovely sweetness, you can replace them with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile. Just keep the maple syrup coating for that delightful crunch.

What kind of apples work best in this salad?

Any variety of apples works well! However, crisp and slightly tart options like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp complement the other flavors beautifully.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans! Its combination of sweet and savory flavors makes it a standout dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at dinner or packing it up for lunch, this salad is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try this delicious recipe!