Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

If you’re looking for a salad that’s as vibrant and refreshing as the autumn leaves, then this Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans is just what you need! This delightful dish combines crisp apples with peppery arugula and sweet figs, all tied together with a rich balsamic dressing. It’s a recipe that has quickly become a staple in my home, perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. Plus, it only takes 20 minutes to whip up, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying good company.

Every bite of this salad brings a burst of flavor and texture, making it not just healthy but truly satisfying. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself to something delicious, this salad is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This salad comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for any night of the week.
• Flavorful crunch: The roasted maple pecans add a delightful crunch and sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the fresh ingredients.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a side dish or add your favorite protein to make it a meal!
• Seasonal goodness: Celebrate apple season with this fresh take on salads that highlights fall’s best produce.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare the components in advance and toss them together right before serving for an effortless dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this flavorful salad. You might already have many of these items in your pantry or fridge!

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences.

• Change the greens: Swap arugula for spinach or mixed greens if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Add protein: Toss in grilled chicken, chickpeas, or roasted turkey for added substance.
• Try different fruits: Substitute pears or pomegranate seeds for a fun twist on flavors.
• Go nut-free: Leave out the pecans and replace them with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for crunch without nuts.

How to Make Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a bowl, toss the pecans with maple syrup and a pinch of sea salt. Spreading them on a parchment-lined baking sheet helps ensure they toast evenly. Bake for about 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown; keep an eye on them so they don’t burn! This step enhances their flavor and adds that irresistible crunch.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing

In another bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for the balsamic dressing: olive oil, maple syrup, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, pepper, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, and sea salt. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed—it should be tangy yet slightly sweet. This dressing ties all the elements of your salad together beautifully.

Step 3: Assemble Your Salad

In a large salad bowl, add arugula as your base. Arrange the thinly sliced apples, chopped figs, red onion slices, goat cheese crumbles, and those delicious toasted pecans on top. Just before serving, drizzle half of your prepared dressing over everything and gently toss to combine. This ensures every bite is bursting with flavor!

Serve up this Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans as a stunning side dish or make it your main meal by adding protein. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

Creating a delightful Apple Arugula Salad is all about balancing flavors and textures, so let me share some pro tips to help you shine in the kitchen!

• Choose the Right Apples: Opt for sweet-tart apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith. Their crispness and flavor will add a refreshing crunch to your salad.

• Toast Your Pecans: Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and adds a lovely crunch. Just keep an eye on them in the oven; they can go from perfect to burnt in a flash!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh arugula and ripe figs make a world of difference in this salad. The freshness elevates every bite, bringing out the best in your ingredients.

• Dress Just Before Serving: To keep the arugula crisp, add dressing just before serving. This prevents sogginess and helps maintain that delightful crunch!

• Experiment with Cheese: If goat cheese isn’t your favorite, try feta or a plant-based cheese alternative. Each cheese brings its unique flavor that can transform the salad into something new!

How to Serve Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

This vibrant Apple Arugula Salad is not only delicious but also visually stunning! Here are some creative ideas to present it beautifully at your next gathering.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or mint adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the salad’s flavors.

• Edible Flowers: For an extra touch of elegance, consider adding edible flowers like nasturtiums or pansies. They’re not just pretty; they also bring a subtle peppery taste!

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf with herbs and lemon pairs wonderfully with this salad, offering protein and fiber while maintaining a fresh vibe.

• Grilled Chicken or Tofu: For those wanting extra protein, grilled chicken or marinated tofu works perfectly alongside this salad, creating a satisfying meal.

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the apples and figs beautifully, making for a hearty side dish that’s great for any season.

• Vegetable Soup: A warm bowl of vegetable soup can enhance the meal experience, providing comfort and warmth that balances the freshness of the salad.

This Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans is sure to impress at any table. Enjoy serving it up with these tips!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a fresh and delicious salad throughout the week. You can prepare components in advance and assemble them when you’re ready to eat.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent the greens from wilting.
• Consume within 2-3 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad, as the texture of arugula and fresh ingredients will degrade once thawed.
• Instead, consider preparing only the pecans or dressing in advance if you plan to freeze components.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat this salad; serve it chilled or at room temperature.
• If you prefer your ingredients warmer, consider lightly sautéing the apples before adding them to your salad.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delightful salad!

Can I make Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans without goat cheese?

Absolutely! You can omit goat cheese or substitute it with another cheese like feta or a dairy-free option if desired. The flavors will still shine through!

How long does Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans last in the fridge?

When stored properly, this salad can last up to 2-3 days in the fridge. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until serving for optimal freshness.

What other ingredients can I add to my Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans?

Feel free to get creative! Ingredients like roasted chicken, quinoa, or additional nuts and seeds can enhance this salad beautifully.

Is there a way to customize the dressing for my Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans?

Yes! You can try using different types of vinegar or adding herbs like basil or parsley for an extra flavor boost. Experiment until you find your perfect mix!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re feeling inspired to whip up this Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans! It’s such a lovely dish that celebrates the flavors of fall while being versatile enough for any occasion. Enjoy making it, cherish every crunchy bite, and share it with those you love. Happy cooking!