When you crave something refreshing yet satisfying, this Fresh Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad is a perfect choice. Combining crisp apples, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a zesty homemade vinaigrette, this salad brings a beautiful balance of flavors and textures to your table. Whether you serve it as a side dish for a festive meal or enjoy it as a light lunch, it’s sure to impress!
Preparation Time:
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Total Time: 15 minutes
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Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
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4 cups mixed greens (spring mix, baby spinach, or arugula)
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2 medium Honeycrisp or Gala apples, thinly sliced
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1/2 cup dried cranberries
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1/2 cup pecans, toasted
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1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
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1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
For the Vinaigrette:
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1/4 cup olive oil
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2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
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1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
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1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Prepare the Vinaigrette:
In a small bowl or a mason jar, combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Whisk well until the vinaigrette is fully emulsified. Alternatively, shake it vigorously if using a jar. Set aside.
Toast the Pecans:
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans for about 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn them. Remove from heat and let cool.
Assemble the Salad:
In a large serving bowl, arrange the mixed greens as the base. Scatter the apple slices, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, crumbled feta cheese (if using), and red onion evenly over the greens.
Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad just before serving. Gently toss everything together to coat the ingredients lightly with the dressing.
Serve Immediately:
For best flavor and texture, serve the salad immediately after dressing. Enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors!
Tips for Best Results:
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Apple Choices: Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji apples work beautifully for their sweetness and crunch.
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Make Ahead: You can prepare the vinaigrette and toast the pecans in advance. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep it crisp.
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Vinaigrette Variations: Add a splash of orange juice for a citrusy twist, or swap maple syrup for honey for a deeper flavor.
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Add Protein: Top with grilled chicken or turkey for a heartier meal!
This Fresh Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad brings together the best of sweet, tart, and nutty flavors with a bright vinaigrette that ties everything together perfectly. It’s easy to prepare, stunning to present, and absolutely delicious to eat! Whether you’re looking for a refreshing starter, a festive side dish, or a light, healthy meal, this salad is a fantastic choice. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again — especially during apple season!