Apple and Pecan Salad with Mixed Greens

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crisp and refreshing: The apples add a sweet, juicy crunch that pairs beautifully with the soft greens and toasted pecans.

• Simple ingredients: With just a few fresh ingredients, this salad is incredibly easy to make while still feeling special.

• Perfect balance: The sweetness of the apples and the richness of the pecans are complemented by the tangy dressing, making every bite delightful.

• Versatile: This salad can be customized with different nuts, fruits, or cheeses, and it works well with a variety of proteins like grilled chicken or salmon.

Ingredients

• 4 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, or baby kale)

• 1 large apple, cored and thinly sliced (choose a sweet-tart variety like Gala, Fuji, or Honeycrisp)

• ½ cup toasted pecans (or walnuts, if preferred)

• ¼ cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese (optional)

• ¼ red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice

• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup

• Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Toast the pecans: In a small pan over medium heat, toast the pecans for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and lightly browned. Be careful not to burn them. Set aside to cool.

2. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

3. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, thinly sliced apples, toasted pecans, and red onion (if using). If adding cheese, sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese or feta on top.

4. Dress the salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine, ensuring all ingredients are coated.

5. Serve: Serve immediately as a light lunch or as a refreshing side dish with your main course. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 3-4 minutes (for toasting the pecans)

• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: For a more filling meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or a scoop of quinoa. This salad is also great with a hard-boiled egg or chickpeas.

• Other nuts: If you prefer a different nut, try swapping the pecans with almonds, walnuts, or even candied pecans for extra sweetness.

• Fruit options: Swap the apple for pears, pomegranate seeds, or dried cranberries for a different flavor profile.

• Cheese options: If you don’t have goat cheese or feta, you can use blue cheese, parmesan, or even a soft burrata for a creamy addition.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: This salad is best served fresh. However, you can store leftover dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Keep the salad components separate until ready to serve.

• Reheating: This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is necessary.

FAQs

Can I make this salad in advance?

You can prepare the individual components ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting and the apples from browning. Store the dressing separately in the fridge.

Can I use a different type of greens?

Yes! You can use any greens you prefer, such as arugula, spinach, mixed baby greens, or even romaine lettuce. Each will add a different texture and flavor to the salad.

Can I skip the cheese?

Yes, you can skip the cheese if you prefer a dairy-free version. The salad will still be delicious, and you can add extra nuts or a drizzle of extra dressing for flavor.

How do I prevent the apples from browning?

To keep the apples from browning, you can toss them with a little lemon juice before adding them to the salad. This will help preserve their color and keep them fresh.

Can I use dried fruits in this salad?

Yes! Dried cranberries, apricots, or raisins can be a great substitute for fresh fruit if you don’t have apples. Just rehydrate them with a little warm water if you prefer them softer.

How do I make this salad more filling?

To make the salad more substantial, add a protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, roasted chickpeas, or a scoop of quinoa. You can also serve it with a side of whole-grain bread or a slice of hearty toast.

Conclusion

This Apple and Pecan Salad with Mixed Greens is a light, refreshing, and balanced dish that combines the sweetness of apples with the rich crunch of pecans, all dressed in a tangy vinaigrette. It’s quick to make, packed with nutrients, and versatile enough to suit any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a simple lunch or a side dish to complement your dinner, this salad will add a burst of flavor and color to your table. Enjoy it fresh, or get creative with your favorite variations!