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Fresh Apple Feta Salad Recipe: Best Homemade Fall Salad with Candied Pecans

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This vibrant fall salad combines crisp apples, creamy feta, sweet dried cranberries, and homemade candied pecans for a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Quick to prepare and naturally gluten-free, it’s a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings or cozy lunches.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large crisp apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith, about 10 oz each)
  • 5 oz baby spinach or mixed greens (washed and dried)
  • 3 oz feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1 cup pecan halves
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or white balsamic)
  • 2 tsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
  • 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the candied pecans: Melt butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add sugar and stir until dissolved. Add pecans and a pinch of salt, stirring constantly for 2-3 minutes until glossy and coated. Transfer to a parchment-lined plate, separate clumps, and let cool.
  2. Mix the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust sweetness or tang as desired.
  3. Prep the salad base: Wash and thoroughly dry spinach or mixed greens. Place in a large mixing bowl.
  4. Slice the apples: Core and thinly slice apples (about 1/4-inch thick). Toss with lemon juice if prepping ahead to prevent browning. Layer over greens.
  5. Add the toppings: Sprinkle crumbled feta and dried cranberries over the salad. Break up cooled candied pecans and add on top.
  6. Toss the salad: Drizzle dressing over the salad and gently toss until coated.
  7. Serve immediately: Transfer to a serving platter or bowls. Garnish with extra feta or pecans if desired.

Notes

Slice apples just before serving for best crunch. Toss apple slices with lemon juice to prevent browning if prepping ahead. Cool candied pecans before adding to salad to avoid wilting greens. Dressing can be adjusted for sweetness or tang. For vegan or dairy-free, use dairy-free feta and maple syrup. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days; keep dressing separate for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple feta salad, fall salad, candied pecans, easy salad, gluten-free salad, holiday salad, vegetarian salad, potluck salad, healthy salad, autumn salad

Find it online: https://jodierecipes.com/fresh-apple-feta-salad-recipe-best-homemade-fall-salad-with-candied-pecans/