Print

Easy Apple Pecan Salad with Maple Vinaigrette Recipe

apple pecan salad with maple vinaigrette - featured image

This Fresh Harvest Apple Pecan Salad combines crisp apples, toasted pecans, creamy feta, and a tangy-sweet maple vinaigrette for a quick, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups mixed salad greens (180g)
  • 1 large apple (Honeycrisp or Fuji), sliced
  • 1/2 cup raw pecan halves (60g)
  • 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese (50g)
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries (30g)
  • 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup (45ml)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (30ml)
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (60ml)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Toast the pecans: Place pecan halves in a dry skillet over medium heat. Shake pan every 30 seconds until fragrant and slightly darker (3-5 minutes). Transfer to a plate to cool.
  2. Make the maple vinaigrette: In a small jar, combine maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Add olive oil, seal lid, and shake vigorously for 30 seconds until emulsified. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  3. Prep the apple and onion: Slice apple into thin bite-sized pieces (leave skin on). Thinly slice red onion into half-moons. If not serving immediately, toss apple slices with lemon juice to prevent browning.
  4. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, add mixed greens. Pour half the vinaigrette over greens and toss gently to coat evenly.
  5. Top and serve: Add sliced apple, toasted pecans, crumbled feta, dried cranberries, and red onion on top. Drizzle remaining dressing or serve on the side. Serve immediately.

Notes

Toast pecans with a pinch of salt and cayenne for extra flavor. For best texture, dress greens before adding toppings. Slice apples just before serving to prevent browning. Store components separately if prepping ahead.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple pecan salad, maple vinaigrette, fall salad, easy salad recipe, healthy salad