Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans

This Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans is a delightful dish that blends crisp apples, crunchy maple pecans, and creamy goat cheese. Perfect for fall gatherings or as a light lunch, this salad offers a tasty way to enjoy seasonal produce. The sweet and tangy balsamic dressing ties everything together, making it an irresistible option for any occasion.

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

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
• For Garnish
• 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 Light Main Course
• With Grilled Proteins
• As a Side Dish at Gatherings
• Paired with Bread
• In Meal Prep Containers
• 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 can I add to Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans?
• How should I store leftovers of Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans?
• Can I make Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans ahead of time?
• What other dressings work well with this salad?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This salad comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of sweet apples, crunchy pecans, and creamy goat cheese creates a delicious balance of flavors.
• Versatile Dish: It works well as a side dish or a light main course when paired with your favorite protein.
• Seasonal Ingredients: Featuring fresh fall produce like apples and figs, this salad captures the essence of autumn.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients from arugula and fruits, this salad is not only delicious but also good for you.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing the Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans easy and enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Whisk or jar for dressing

Importance of Each Tool

• Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts on your ingredients, enhancing presentation and texture.
• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl helps in tossing the salad without spilling any ingredients.
• Baking Sheet: Perfect for toasting the maple pecans evenly while preventing them from burning.

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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

PIN THIS!

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 them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 5-7 minutes until toasted and slightly darkened. Remove from oven and let cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, black pepper, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, and sea salt. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl, add arugula. Arrange 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. Gently toss to coat all ingredients. Serve with remaining dressing on the side for those who prefer extra. Enjoy!

How to Serve Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans

This Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans is versatile and can be served in various ways. Whether it’s a light lunch or part of a larger dinner spread, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

As a Light Main Course

• A satisfying option for lunch, this salad can stand alone. Pair it with grilled chicken or chickpeas for added protein.

With Grilled Proteins

• Serve alongside grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak to create a balanced meal rich in flavors and textures.

As a Side Dish at Gatherings

• This salad makes an excellent side at potlucks or family dinners. Its vibrant colors and delicious taste will impress guests.

Paired with Bread

• Accompany the salad with warm, crusty bread or rolls. The bread helps soak up any extra dressing for a delightful bite.

In Meal Prep Containers

• For easy lunches during the week, portion the salad into containers. Keep the dressing separate until mealtime to maintain freshness.

How to Perfect Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans

To elevate your Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans, keep these tips in mind for optimal flavor and presentation.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh apples and arugula for the best texture and taste.
• Customize Your Cheese: Try different cheeses like feta or blue cheese if you want a change from goat cheese.
• Make Ahead Wisely: Prepare components separately to retain freshness; combine them just before serving.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the dressing and adjust maple syrup according to your preference; some may prefer it sweeter.
• Add Crunch: Incorporate seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for added crunch and nutrition.
• Experiment with Fruits: Substitute apples with pears or berries for unique twists on this classic fall salad.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans

This Apple Arugula Salad pairs well with various sides, enhancing its flavors while providing a complete meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness complements the salad’s flavors perfectly while adding hearty substance.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutritious side that offers protein and fiber, making it an ideal partner for this light salad.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add color and smokiness that contrast beautifully with the fresh greens.
4. Cheesy Garlic Bread: A comforting side that adds richness; perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing.
5. Stuffed Acorn Squash: Filled with grains and nuts, this dish echoes the fall theme while being filling and flavorful.
6. Creamy Tomato Soup: A warm option that balances the crispness of the salad; perfect for cooler days.
7. Pasta Primavera: Lightly dressed pasta mixed with seasonal vegetables enhances the meal’s overall freshness.
8. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice mixed with herbs provides a mild flavor that complements the bold elements of the salad without overpowering it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Using stale ingredients: Freshness matters! Always use fresh arugula and ripe apples for the best flavor.
• Overdressing the salad: Too much dressing can overwhelm the flavors. Start with a little and add more as needed.
• Chopping apples too early: To prevent browning, slice apples just before serving or soak them in a saltwater solution if preparing ahead.
• Skipping the pecans: Maple pecans add a sweet crunch. Don’t skip this step; they’re essential for texture and flavor balance.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper in the dressing to suit your palate.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the salad in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep dressing separate until ready to serve for optimal freshness.

Freezing Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans

• Freezing is not recommended for this salad due to its fresh ingredients.
• If you must freeze, consider freezing only the maple pecans.

Reheating Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm the pecans on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for short bursts of 10-15 seconds, checking regularly.
• Stovetop: Toss the pecans in a pan over low heat until warmed through.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I add to Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans?

You can customize this salad by adding grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein, or nuts like walnuts for added crunch.

How should I store leftovers of Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep dressing separate if possible.

Can I make Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best to prepare components separately. Assemble just before serving to keep everything fresh.

What other dressings work well with this salad?

Aside from balsamic vinaigrette, you could try honey mustard or a citrus vinaigrette for a different flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that make it versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a light main dish or alongside your favorite meal, this salad is sure to impress. Feel free to customize it with your favorite proteins or seasonal fruits!