Apple Pecan Salad

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

This refreshing Apple Pecan Salad features crisp apple slices, crunchy pecans, and mixed greens, all tossed together with a tangy vinaigrette. Perfect for fall gatherings or as a light main dish, this salad combines sweet and savory flavors for a delightful update to your seasonal menu. Add it to your list of must-try fall salad recipes!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-10-29T05:50:55.650Z

This Apple Pecan Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, perfect for enjoying during the fall season!

Perfect for Fall Gatherings

Fall is the season of cozy gatherings and hearty meals, making it the ideal time to incorporate fresh, vibrant salads like this Apple Pecan Salad into your menu. The combination of sweet apples and crunchy pecans gives this dish a delightful flavor profile that pairs beautifully with roasted meats and savory sides. Additionally, its bright colors and appealing textures will elevate the look of your autumn table.

Whether you're hosting a Thanksgiving feast, a casual get-together, or just looking to enjoy a meal at home, this salad brings a refreshing balance to heavier dishes. It's also a fantastic side that can stand alone as a light main course, catering to various dietary preferences without sacrificing taste.

Nutritious and Delicious

One of the standout features of the Apple Pecan Salad is its nutritional benefits. Mixed greens offer a variety of vitamins and minerals essential for overall health, while apples provide fiber and antioxidants. Pecans not only add a satisfying crunch but are also packed with healthy fats, protein, and a range of vitamins, making this salad a wholesome choice for anyone looking to eat clean.

Adding feta cheese brings calcium and extra creaminess to the salad, creating a perfect balance with the tartness of the apples. The combination of these ingredients not only makes for a tasty dish but also one that nourishes your body, giving you the energy you need to enjoy the day.

Easy to Customize

One of the best aspects of the Apple Pecan Salad is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different types of apples, such as Granny Smith for a tart twist or Honeycrisp for sweetness. You can also swap the pecans for walnuts or almonds, depending on your preference, making it easy to tailor the recipe to suit your taste.

For those looking to add even more nutrients, consider tossing in some seasonal ingredients like roasted butternut squash or avocado slices. You can also adjust the vinaigrette to your liking by adding herbs like thyme or parsley to enhance the flavor further. This adaptability makes the salad a fantastic option for any occasion.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

4 cups mixed greens
2 apples, sliced
1 cup pecans, toasted
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

Vinaigrette Ingredients

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

Mix the ingredients as needed for your taste!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, apple slices, toasted pecans, feta cheese, and red onion.

Make the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.

Toss and Serve

Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your fresh and delicious Apple Pecan Salad!

Dressing Tips

Crafting the perfect vinaigrette is simple and allows for endless customization. Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor, as it serves as the base of your dressing. If you're a fan of tanginess, consider adding a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors further, or try using different types of vinegar, such as balsamic or red wine vinegar, for a unique twist.

Another idea is to incorporate fresh herbs like basil or dill into the dressing for an aromatic experience. These herbs not only enhance the flavor but also elevate the overall presentation when drizzled over the salad.

Serving Suggestions

To complement this Apple Pecan Salad, consider serving it alongside roasted or grilled meats, such as turkey or chicken. The salad's bright flavors will cut through the richness of the meat, creating an enjoyable dining experience. Alternatively, it pairs beautifully with a warm soup, making it a perfect choice for a light fall lunch.

For a complete meal, you can also add protein directly to the salad, such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas, turning it into a satisfying dish that's great for meal prep. Each addition will make it even more filling while maintaining the fresh and crunchy quality of the original recipe.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, it's best to store the salad and vinaigrette separately to maintain optimal freshness. Mixed greens can wilt when dressed, so store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Properly stored, they can last for a day or two, allowing you to savor this delicious salad again at your leisure.

When ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply toss the greens with the vinaigrette and any additional ingredients for a refreshing meal without the fuss. This makes it an excellent choice not just for gatherings but also for meal planning throughout the week.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It's best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients a few hours in advance and mix just before serving.

→ What kind of apples are best for this salad?

Sweet and crisp apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp work well.