Description
This Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans is a quick, fresh, and satisfying meal, perfect for busy weeknights or as an impressive side dish. It features crisp apples and peppery arugula, complemented by the amazing crunch and sweet-savory flavor of homemade maple pecans.
The salad beautifully balances textures and tastes, and is packed with nourishing ingredients. It’s a simple joy that delivers delicious, easy meals.
Ingredients
- Fresh Arugula: 5 oz (about 5-6 cups)
- Crisp Apples (e.g., Fuji, Honeycrisp, Gala): 2 medium, cored and thinly sliced
- Pecan Halves: 1 cup
- Maple Syrup: 2 tablespoons (plus 1 for dressing)
- Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons (divided)
- Apple Cider Vinegar: 2 tablespoons
- Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Optional: Crumbled Feta or Goat Cheese: 1/4 cup
Instructions
1. Prepare the Maple Pecans: First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a small bowl, toss the pecan halves with 2 tablespoons of maple syrup and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Spread them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 8-10 minutes, or until fragrant and slightly browned. Watch them closely to prevent burning. Remove and let them cool completely; they will crisp up as they cool.
2. Make the Vinaigrette: While the pecans cool, whisk together the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
3. Assemble the Salad: In a large serving bowl, combine the fresh arugula and thinly sliced apples.
4. Dress and Serve: Just before serving, drizzle the vinaigrette over the arugula and apples. Toss gently to coat. Finally, scatter the cooled maple pecans over the salad. If using, add the crumbled feta or goat cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy your beautiful Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Roasting, Whisking, Tossing
- Cuisine: Modern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Apple Arugula Salad, Maple Pecans, Easy Salad, Quick Dinner, Healthy Salad, Weeknight Meal, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Fresh Salad, Autumn Salad