This fresh salad is a perfect mix of crisp apples, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans. Tossed with a light dressing, it’s both vibrant and full of flavor!
I love how this salad adds a bit of color to the table. It’s great for festive meals or just to brighten up a weekday dinner. Plus, it’s so easy to whip together!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mixed Salad Greens: The greens add freshness. I love using a mix of red and green leaf for color and texture. If you’re looking for a twist, try arugula or spinach!
Apple: Fuji or Honeycrisp apples are sweet and crisp, ideal for salads. If you prefer less sweetness, go for a tart apple like Granny Smith. Pears are a great alternative too!
Dried Cranberries: These add a sweet and tangy burst. If you can’t find cranberries, try raisins or chopped dried cherries for a similar taste.
Pecans: Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor. You can swap in walnuts or almonds if you prefer. If you’re nut-free, pumpkin seeds (pepitas) are a nice substitute!
Cheese: Goat cheese adds creaminess and tang. Feta works wonderfully too. For a dairy-free option, try avocado for creaminess or omit the cheese altogether.
How Do I Toast Pecans Perfectly?
Toasting pecans is simple and really brings out their flavor! Here’s how to do it:
- Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Be sure it’s not too hot to avoid burning!
- Add the pecan halves in a single layer and stir frequently.
- Toast for 3-5 minutes until they’re fragrant and slightly golden.
- Remove from heat immediately to prevent further cooking. Let them cool before using.
This toasting technique can be used for other nuts too. Just watch them closely—they can go from toasted to burned quickly!
Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (such as red leaf, green leaf, and baby lettuce)
- 1 large apple (such as Fuji or Honeycrisp), thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup pecan halves, toasted
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare, including toasting the pecans! Perfect for a quick lunch or a light side dish at dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Toasting the Pecans:
Begin by toasting the pecan halves in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir them often for about 3-5 minutes until they’re fragrant and slightly browned. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn. Once done, remove from heat and let them cool.
2. Making the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, add the extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk together until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You want it to be savory and slightly sweet!
3. Assembling the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans. Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese or feta on top. Then, add the thinly sliced apple on top of all the goodies.
4. Dressing it Up:
Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad. Gently toss everything together so that all the ingredients are well coated in that delicious dressing.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy this fresh, crisp, and flavorful salad right away! It’s a delightful dish that combines sweet, tart, crunchy, and creamy elements in every bite. Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or just a tasty lunch!
Feel free to customize this salad with your favorite ingredients or whatever you have on hand. Enjoy your salad adventure!
Can I Use Different Nuts in This Salad?
Absolutely! While pecans are fantastic, you can substitute them with walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds if you’re looking for a nut-free option. Just make sure to toast them for added flavor!
Can I Make the Dressing Ahead of Time?
Yes! The dressing can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good shake or whisk before using, as the ingredients may separate over time.
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain the crispness of the greens.
Can I Add Other Fruits to the Salad?
Definitely! Additional fruits like pears, strawberries, or mandarin oranges would be delicious in this salad. Just ensure they are fresh and complement the flavors of apple and cranberry!