This Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans is a delightful blend of flavors that perfectly captures the essence of fall. With its crisp apples, crunchy maple pecans, and creamy goat cheese, this salad is not just a side dish; it can stand alone as a light main course. It’s versatile enough for everyday meals or special occasions like Thanksgiving, making it an excellent choice for any gathering.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Salad:
- For the Maple Pecans:
- For the Dressing:
- How to Make Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans
- Step 1: Prepare the Maple Pecans
- Step 2: Make the Dressing
- Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- Step 4: Dress and Serve
- How to Serve Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans
- As a Main Dish
- As an Appetizer
- With Bread
- At a Brunch
- During Holidays
- How to Perfect Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans
- Best Side Dishes for Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans
- Reheating Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What flavors pair well with Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans?
- Can I customize my Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans?
- How do I keep my apples from browning in the salad?
- What’s a good protein addition for this salad?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: Quick prep time means you can have this salad ready in just 20 minutes!
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of sweet apples, tangy balsamic dressing, and crunchy pecans creates a taste sensation.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a side or add protein for a satisfying main dish.
- Seasonal Ingredients: Perfectly utilizes fall produce, making it a timely addition to your meal plan.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, this salad is as good for you as it is delicious.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for your apples and vegetables, enhancing presentation.
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows easy mixing of salad ingredients without spilling.
- Whisk: Makes blending the dressing quick and efficient for a smooth consistency.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 3 apples, thinly sliced
- 5 oz arugula
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup figs, chopped
- ½ cup goat cheese crumbles
For the Maple Pecans:
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- Pinch of sea salt
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup olive oil
- 2 teaspoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1½ teaspoons Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- ¼-½ teaspoon sea salt, to taste
How to Make Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans
Step 1: Prepare the Maple Pecans
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Toss the pecan halves with the maple syrup and a pinch of sea salt. Spread the pecans in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until toasted and slightly darkened. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, black pepper, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, and sea salt. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large salad bowl, add the arugula. Arrange the sliced apples, chopped figs, red onion, goat cheese crumbles, and cooled maple pecans on top of the greens.
Step 4: Dress and Serve
Just before serving, drizzle about half of the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat. Serve with remaining dressing on the side for those who prefer extra. Enjoy!
How to Serve Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans
This delightful Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans is versatile and can be served in various ways to elevate your dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal, these serving suggestions will help you make the most of this tasty dish.
As a Main Dish
- Pair it with grilled chicken or shrimp for a hearty meal.
- Add quinoa or farro for extra protein and texture.
As an Appetizer
- Serve in small portions on individual plates for a refined starter.
- Offer it at potlucks as a refreshing salad option that everyone will enjoy.
With Bread
- Accompany with crusty bread or whole-grain rolls to soak up the dressing.
- Consider serving alongside toasted baguette slices for added crunch.
At a Brunch
- Offer as part of a brunch buffet with other light dishes like yogurt parfaits and frittatas.
- Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.
During Holidays
- Present it as a side dish at Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners.
- Make it festive by adding pomegranate seeds or orange slices during the holiday season.
How to Perfect Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans
To ensure your Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh arugula and crisp apples will enhance the salad’s flavor and texture.
- Add apples last: To prevent browning, add sliced apples just before serving.
- Customize the dressing: Adjust the maple syrup and balsamic vinegar to match your taste preference.
- Serve chilled: Refrigerate the salad for about 30 minutes before serving for optimal freshness.
- Experiment with toppings: Try adding walnuts or sunflower seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.
Best Side Dishes for Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans
Pairing side dishes with your Apple Arugula Salad can enhance your meal. Here are some great options that complement this salad beautifully.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs well with the tangy dressing of the salad.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A light, protein-packed side that adds heartiness without overpowering flavors.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers offer vibrant colors and delicious flavors.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: This comforting classic adds a satisfying crunch that complements the salad’s freshness.
- Creamy Potato Salad: A rich side that balances the zesty elements of the apple arugula salad well.
- Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous seasoned with fresh herbs provides a light, fragrant component to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid:
- Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh apples and arugula for the best flavor. Stale ingredients can make your salad less appealing.
- Overdressing Too Early: Don’t add all the dressing before serving. This can wilt the greens and make them soggy. Dress the salad just before serving.
- Not Preparing Maple Pecans Properly: Ensure you bake the pecans until they are golden. Under-toasting can result in a bland flavor.
- Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Taste your dressing before adding it to the salad. Adjust seasoning as needed to enhance overall flavor.
- Assembling Too Soon: Assemble your salad close to serving time to keep the ingredients fresh and vibrant.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.
Freezing Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh and should not be frozen.
- If you have leftover maple pecans, you can freeze them in a sealed bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5 minutes, covered, just enough to warm the pecans if needed.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals of 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Gently reheat on low heat in a skillet for a minute or two, stirring frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What flavors pair well with Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans?
This salad pairs beautifully with flavors like tart cranberries, roasted butternut squash, or grilled chicken for added protein.
Can I customize my Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, seeds, or different cheeses according to your taste preferences.
How do I keep my apples from browning in the salad?
To prevent browning, soak sliced apples in a saltwater solution for a few minutes before adding them to the salad.
What’s a good protein addition for this salad?
Grilled chicken or chickpeas work well as protein additions that complement the flavors of this salad.
Final Thoughts
The Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. Its combination of sweet apples, crunchy pecans, and tangy dressing creates a refreshing experience. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite proteins or additional fruits. Try this versatile recipe today!
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Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans is a vibrant and flavorful dish that captures the essence of fall. This delightful salad features crisp apples, peppery arugula, crunchy maple pecans, and creamy goat cheese, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Ideal for any occasion—whether a casual weeknight dinner or a festive Thanksgiving feast—this salad is quick to prepare and can easily be transformed into a light main course by adding protein. With its seasonal ingredients and health benefits, it’s sure to impress your guests while satisfying your appetite!
Ingredients
- 3 apples, thinly sliced
- 5 oz arugula
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup figs, chopped
- ½ cup goat cheese crumbles
- 1 cup pecan halves
- ½ cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- Pinch of sea salt
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1½ teaspoons Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ¼–½ teaspoon sea salt, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Toss pecans with maple syrup and sea salt; spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes until toasted. Let cool.
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk olive oil, maple syrup, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, black pepper, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, and sea salt to make the dressing.
- In a large bowl, combine arugula, apples, figs, red onion, goat cheese, and cooled pecans.
- Just before serving, drizzle half of the dressing over the salad and toss gently. Serve remaining dressing on the side.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
