Name: Apple Pecan Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 5 oz. arugula; 1 large apple, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup red onion, soaked in water; 1/2 cup salted pecans, roughly chopped; 1/4 cup feta cheese; 1/4 cup dried cranberries; 2 cups shredded chicken; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 2 tbsp honey; 1 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard; 1/2 tsp salt, plus more to taste; 1/4 tsp black pepper

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Apple Pecan Salad brings together fresh, vibrant ingredients that brighten up any meal. If you’re looking for a delicious way to enjoy a mix of sweet and savory, you’ve hit the jackpot. This salad is not just a pretty face—it’s packed with nutrients, making it an awesome choice for both lunch and dinner. You can whip it up in no time, perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something light yet satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or just treating yourself to a wholesome meal, this Apple Pecan Salad is a winner. So, grab your cutting board, and let’s dive into making this delightful dish together!

Why This Recipe Works

This Apple Pecan Salad is a masterclass in balancing flavors. The sweet crunch of apples plays wonderfully against the salty feta. Each bite offers a little dance of flavor that makes your taste buds sing. Beyond that, it’s loaded with fresh ingredients. You’ve got greens, fruits, nuts, and chicken, all coming together for a nutrient-rich bowl of goodness.

It’s also incredibly quick and easy to prepare. You can throw this together in around 20 minutes, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re prepping meals for the week ahead. Just imagine: coming home, tossing a few ingredients together, and sitting down to a delicious, healthy meal—it really doesn’t get much easier!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Pecan Salad

What’s not to love? This salad is versatile enough to stand alone as a light dinner or serve as a side to grilled meats. Plus, you can throw in your favorite protein to make it a heartier dish.

It shines during the fall months when apples are in season, making it the ideal choice for family gatherings or cozy dinners. Another great feature is how easy it is to customize. Want to add a little crunch or swap out a few ingredients? Go for it! You can adjust this recipe to fit your tastes, ensuring every bite is exactly what you love.

Ingredients

5 oz. arugula
1 large apple, thinly sliced
1/2 cup red onion, soaked in water
1/2 cup salted pecans, roughly chopped
1/4 cup feta cheese
1/4 cup dried cranberries
2 cups shredded chicken (see below for how to make shredded chicken)
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
2 tbsp honey
1 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp salt, plus more to taste
1/4 tsp black pepper

How to Make Shredded Chicken

Cook the Chicken: Start by boiling, baking, or slow-cooking your chicken until it’s fully cooked. After that, simply shred it using forks or your hands. It’s that easy! You can prepare your chicken in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it in your salad.

Create the Vinaigrette

Whisk Together Dressing Ingredients: Grab a small bowl or a measuring cup. Combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well blended. Set this aside while you prepare the salad, as the flavors will meld beautifully.

Assemble the Salad

Combine the Base: In a large bowl, start by adding the arugula as the foundation of your salad. Its peppery flavor will complement the sweet apples perfectly.

Add Protein and Crunch

Incorporate Chicken and Pecans: Now, gently mix in the shredded chicken, chopped pecans, and soaked red onions. The crunch from the pecans adds an irresistible texture, which transforms your salad into something truly special.

Toss in Fruits and Cheese

Mix with Apples and Feta: Next, add the sliced apples, crumbled feta cheese, and dried cranberries to the salad mixture. Each ingredient contributes its unique flavor, bringing your Apple Pecan Salad to life.

Drizzle and Serve

Dress the Salad: Pour about half of the vinaigrette over the salad ingredients. Toss everything gently to coat each piece well. You’ll want every bite to be bursting with flavor!

Plate and Enjoy: Serve the salad on individual plates and drizzle additional dressing on top if desired. This adds a nice finishing touch, making it look as fabulous as it tastes.

Serving Suggestions

This Apple Pecan Salad is fantastic alongside grilled meats, such as chicken or steak. Alternatively, enjoy it as a standalone lunch. For a complete meal, pair it with crusty bread or a warm soup.

Tips for Success

Consider using a variety of apples to enhance texture and flavor. Different apples can offer a sweet twist to each bite!
Make sure to soak the red onions in water beforehand. This helps temper their sharpness and enhances their sweetness, making them an enjoyable addition.

Variations

If you’re looking to mix things up, substitute feta cheese with goat cheese for a tangy twist. For a nutty alternative, try adding walnuts instead of pecans. Both options will bring a unique flavor to your salad.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container, but be sure to keep the dressing separate. This will help retain freshness for up to two days in the refrigerator. Dress just before serving to keep everything crisp and delicious.

FAQs

Can I make Apple Pecan Salad in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the hard ingredients and keep them stored separately. Just dress the salad right before serving for the best results.

What type of apple works best for this salad?
For a delightful sweet-tart flavor, varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal choices—perfect for balancing with the other ingredients.

Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all listed ingredients are gluten-free, making the salad suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

How can I add more protein to the salad?
You could toss in bacon bits, chickpeas, or even a boiled egg, boosting your protein content easily.

Can I use a different type of lettuce?
For sure! Feel free to substitute arugula with spinach, mixed greens, or romaine leaves, depending on your preference.

This Apple Pecan Salad is not only tasty, but it also displays the beauty of fresh, seasonal produce. It’s a delightful addition to any table and sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy the vibrant flavors and easy preparation of this dish that marries health and taste seamlessly.