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Fresh Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad

apple cranberry pecan salad - featured image
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A crisp, colorful fall salad featuring sliced apples, tart cranberries, toasted pecans, and a homemade maple vinaigrette. Perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or a comforting weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large crisp apples, cored and thinly sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • 1 cup dried cranberries
  • 3/4 cup pecan halves, toasted
  • 5 oz mixed salad greens (baby spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
  • 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp pure maple syrup (or honey)
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
  • 1/8 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Toast pecan halves in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5-6 minutes, stirring often until fragrant and golden, or roast in the oven at 350°F for 5-6 minutes. Let cool completely.
  2. Core and thinly slice apples (about 1/4 inch thick). If prepping ahead, toss slices in a little lemon juice to prevent browning.
  3. Place mixed salad greens in a large mixing bowl. Add sliced apples, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, crumbled feta cheese (if using), and sliced red onion.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, sea salt, and black pepper until combined and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  5. Drizzle vinaigrette over salad ingredients. Use salad tongs or clean hands to gently toss until everything is coated.
  6. Transfer salad to a serving platter or bowl. Sprinkle extra pecans or cheese on top if desired. Serve immediately for crunchiest texture.

Notes

For best texture, slice apples and toss with vinaigrette just before serving. Toast pecans carefully to avoid burning. Salad is easily adapted for vegan or nut-free diets by omitting cheese or swapping pecans for pumpkin seeds. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days, keeping dressing separate for best results.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple salad, cranberry salad, pecan salad, fall salad, autumn salad, easy salad, holiday salad, gluten-free salad, vegetarian salad, maple vinaigrette

Find it online: https://jodierecipes.com/fresh-apple-cranberry-pecan-salad-recipe-for-easy-fall-meals/