Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

If you’re looking for a delightful way to celebrate apple season, this Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans is just the ticket! It’s a vibrant mix of flavors and textures that come together beautifully. The sweetness of the apples pairs perfectly with the peppery arugula and crunchy maple pecans, making every bite a little piece of heaven. This salad isn’t just for special occasions; it’s quick enough to whip up on busy weeknights or elegant enough for family gatherings.

What makes this recipe so special is its versatility. You can serve it as a side dish or add some protein to transform it into a full meal. Plus, it only takes 20 minutes to prepare! Trust me, once you try this salad, it will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic days.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet apples, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy maple pecans creates an irresistible taste sensation.
• Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with fresh ingredients, this salad is not only delicious but also loaded with nutrients.
• Flexible for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, this salad fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the components ahead of time for an easy assembly later!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients for this delicious Apple Arugula Salad. You’ll find that each element adds something unique—from crunch to creaminess—creating a perfect balance.

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 Glaze

• 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Protein: Toss in some grilled chicken or chickpeas to make this salad more filling.
• Change the Cheese: Swap goat cheese for feta or blue cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Try Different Nuts: Use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans if you prefer.
• Seasonal Fruits: Incorporate seasonal fruits like pears or berries to change things up throughout the year.

How to Make Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

First things first, we need those pecans toasted! Preheat your oven to 350°F. Toss the pecans with maple syrup and a pinch of sea salt. Spread them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for about 5-7 minutes until they are slightly darkened and fragrant. This step enhances their flavor and adds that lovely crunch!

Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing

While your pecans are cooling, let’s make the dressing. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, pepper, and sea salt. Taste as you go—this dressing should be balanced between sweet and tangy!

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl, add your fresh arugula as the base. Layer on your sliced apples, chopped figs, red onion, goat cheese crumbles, and finally those toasted pecans. Just before serving, drizzle about half of your dressing over everything. Toss gently to combine all those delicious flavors while keeping everything intact!

Now it’s time to enjoy your beautiful Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans! Each bite is sure to bring smiles all around.

Pro Tips for Making Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

Creating the perfect Apple Arugula Salad is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll become a pro in no time!

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh apples and arugula will enhance the flavor and crunch of your salad. Fresh ingredients not only taste better but also provide more nutrients.
• Toast the Pecans: Toasting the pecans brings out their natural oils and deepens their flavor. This simple step adds a delicious crunch that complements the salad beautifully.
• Adjust the Dressing: Feel free to tweak the balsamic dressing to your liking by adding more maple syrup for sweetness or lemon juice for acidity. A personalized dressing can make all the difference!
• Layer Your Ingredients: Instead of mixing everything together at once, layer your ingredients in the bowl. This way, each bite will have a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
• Serve Immediately: For the freshest taste, serve your salad right after tossing it with dressing. This prevents the greens from wilting and keeps everything crisp.

How to Serve Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

Presenting your Apple Arugula Salad can be just as enjoyable as making it. Here are some fun ideas to elevate your dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or mint can add a pop of color and an extra layer of freshness to your salad.
• Extra Cheese Crumbles: Adding additional goat cheese on top not only looks appealing but also enhances that creamy texture with every bite.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken breast is a fantastic protein option that pairs well with this salad, making it a complete meal.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A warm quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs complements the freshness of the salad while adding healthy grains for a satisfying side.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These naturally sweet sides bring warmth and depth to your meal, harmonizing perfectly with the apple and maple flavors in your salad.
• Toasted Bread or Crostini: Serve alongside slices of toasted bread or crostini for a delightful crunch that pairs wonderfully with the creamy goat cheese.

Enjoy crafting this beautiful salad as part of your meal! Whether you’re preparing it for a special gathering or simply enjoying it on a cozy weeknight, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans is not only a delightful dish to serve fresh, but it also makes for an excellent meal prep option! You can prepare several components ahead of time and enjoy the flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Keep the dressing separate to prevent the arugula from wilting.
• Consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• Freezing this salad is not recommended due to the texture of the greens and fruits after thawing.
• However, you can freeze the maple pecans in a sealed bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Since this salad is best served cold or at room temperature, there is no need to reheat.
• Just toss together any prepped ingredients with fresh arugula and dressing when ready to serve!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making the Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans.

Can I use different types of apples in the Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties such as Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness. Each will bring a unique flavor to your salad!

How can I make this Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans vegan?

To make this salad vegan, simply omit the goat cheese or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative. You can also enhance the creaminess with avocado or tahini.

What protein can I add to my Apple Arugula Salad?

Adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa can make this salad a more filling meal. You could also try roasted tofu for a delicious plant-based option!

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes! You can slice the apples and prepare all other ingredients ahead of time. Just keep them separate and combine everything right before serving for maximum freshness.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans! It’s a wonderful way to celebrate fall flavors while bringing something fresh and vibrant to your table. Whether it’s a side dish or a complete meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with loved ones!