Apple Arugula Salad w/ Maple Pecans

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Brighten your fall table with this vibrant Apple Arugula Salad featuring sweet maple pecans. The peppery arugula pairs beautifully with crisp apples, while the homemade maple candied pecans add a delightful crunch and richness. Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings or cozy autumn dinners, this salad is not only packed with flavor but also offers a refreshing twist on seasonal salads.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-10-21T05:48:41.248Z

This Apple Arugula Salad w/ Maple Pecans combines the best of fall flavors.

The Perfect Fall Salad

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, this Apple Arugula Salad becomes a must-have addition to your fall dining table. The vibrant colors of the ingredients not only enhance the visual appeal, but they also provide a rich source of nutrients. Arugula, with its distinctive peppery flavor, complements the sweetness of the apples while adding depth to the dish. This salad is a celebration of autumn's bounty, featuring fresh, seasonal produce that embodies the flavors of the harvest.

Incorporating feta cheese adds a creamy texture that balances the crunch of the apples and the peppery notes of arugula. The contrast between the tangy feta and the sweet apples draws you in, ensuring that each bite is a delightful experience. Whether you're preparing for a formal Thanksgiving dinner or a casual family meal, this salad is versatile enough to shine in any setting.

Health Benefits

Beyond its vibrant flavors, this salad is packed with nutritional benefits. Arugula is a powerhouse of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as essential minerals like calcium and iron. Not only does it support bone health and boost your immune system, but it also adds a unique flavor profile that makes salads exciting and enjoyable.

The addition of apples brings natural sweetness while providing fiber, which aids in digestion and contributes to overall gut health. Coupled with the healthy fats found in olive oil and the nourishing pecans, this salad is not just delicious; it's a wholesome choice that supports a balanced diet.

Customizing Your Salad

One of the best things about this Apple Arugula Salad is its adaptability. Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have at home or personal preferences. For nut allergies, consider using sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds as a crunchy alternative to pecans. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or gorgonzola, for a varied taste experience.

Spicing up the dressing can also personalize this dish. Consider adding a splash of honey for extra sweetness or incorporating fresh herbs like basil or mint for a refreshing twist. This salad is a canvas that invites creativity, allowing you to tailor it to your tastes or dietary needs.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

4 cups arugula
2 medium apples, thinly sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced

Maple Pecans

1 cup pecans
1/4 cup maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

Dressing

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.

Instructions

Prepare the Pecans

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Toss pecans with maple syrup, salt, and cinnamon. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine arugula, sliced apples, feta, and red onion.

Make the Dressing

Whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.

Combine Everything

Drizzle dressing over the salad, sprinkle with maple pecans, and toss gently to combine.

Serve immediately and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

This Apple Arugula Salad is an excellent side dish for roasted meats, such as turkey or chicken, making it a perfect addition to holiday feasts. It pairs wonderfully with grain-based dishes like quinoa or farro, providing a refreshing contrast to heartier meals. Consider serving it alongside a warm soup to create a comforting, well-rounded meal.

For those looking to make it a meal on its own, adding grilled chicken or chickpeas can enhance the protein content, transforming this salad into a satisfying lunch or dinner option. Its delightful mix of textures and flavors will keep you coming back for seconds!

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover salad, it’s best to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, the arugula might wilt and lose its crispness over time. To keep it fresher for longer, consider storing the dressing separately and dressing the salad just before serving. This will help maintain the crisp texture and vibrant colors of the ingredients.

Leftover pecans can also be stored in a sealed container at room temperature for a week or in the fridge for longer shelf life. They make a perfect snack when you need a little pick-me-up, adding crunch to salads or sweetening up your morning oatmeal.

Why Maple Pecans are a Game Changer

The homemade maple candied pecans are what truly elevate this salad. The combination of maple syrup and spices creates a sweet, crunchy topping that complements the other flavors perfectly. Pecans not only add a delightful crunch but also provide healthy fats and antioxidants, making them a nutritious choice for snacking or as a topping.

By preparing the pecans yourself, you can control the sweetness and customize the flavors to your liking. They can be made in advance and stored, making meal prep easy while allowing you to add an extra layer of flavor to your dishes at a moment's notice.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

For best texture, it's recommended to assemble just before serving.

→ What type of apples work best?

Crispy varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith complement the arugula well.