Apple Pecan Salad

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Savor the flavors of fall with this delightful Apple Pecan Salad, featuring crisp apples, crunchy pecans, and a burst of fresh greens, all lightly dressed in a tangy vinaigrette. Perfect as a side dish for your holiday gatherings or a light lunch, this salad brings sweet and savory together in every bite. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, it's a wholesome addition to your fall meal repertoire.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2025-10-29T05:41:36.742Z

This Apple Pecan Salad is not just a dish; it's a celebration of the fall season, bringing warmth and comfort through its rich flavors and textures.

Fall Flavors in Every Bite

As the leaves change and temperatures drop, this Apple Pecan Salad perfectly captures the essence of fall. The crispness of fresh apples combined with the nutty flavor of toasted pecans creates a delightful balance that excites the palate. Each ingredient complements one another, making this salad a standout dish that embodies seasonal tastes. Whether you're enjoying it at a holiday gathering or as a light lunch, this salad offers a refreshing change from heavier comfort foods common during the season.

The addition of feta cheese brings a creamy and tangy element to the mix, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Red onion adds a touch of sharpness, balancing the sweetness of the apples and the richness of the pecans. Together, these components combine to create an explosion of flavors and textures, making every forkful an enjoyable experience.

Nutritional Benefits

This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. Mixed greens provide essential vitamins and minerals, while apples are known for their high fiber content, supporting digestion and heart health. Pecans add healthy fats and antioxidants, which are beneficial for overall well-being. The inclusion of feta cheese offers calcium and protein, further enhancing the nutritional value of this dish.

With its refreshing ingredients, this Apple Pecan Salad is a wonderful addition to any meal. It can serve as a wholesome side dish or a satisfying main course when complemented with proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp. Incorporating this salad into your diet can help you maintain a balanced lifestyle while enjoying the delicious flavors of fall.

Serving Suggestions

To complement the Apple Pecan Salad, consider serving it alongside roasted meats or as a light starter for your holiday feast. Its vibrant colors and delectable flavors make it visually appealing, ensuring it will catch the eye of your guests. For a heartier option, you can add grilled chicken or sliced turkey, turning it into a complete meal that is both nutritious and satisfying.

For added excitement, you can customize the salad by mixing in seasonal ingredients like dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds which will enhance its flavor while providing extra sweetness. This adaptability makes the salad versatile, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the fall with different variations tailored to your taste.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your delicious salad:

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

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

Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to assemble your salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Apple Pecan Salad:

Prepare the vinaigrette

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

Toss the salad

In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced apples, toasted pecans, feta cheese, and red onion. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently.

Serve

Divide the salad into bowls and serve immediately for the best flavor and freshness.

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious Apple Pecan Salad!

Storage Tips

If you have leftover salad, it's best to store the components separately to maintain their freshness. Mixed greens, apples, and nuts can wilt or become soggy when combined with dressing. Store the salad ingredients in airtight containers in the refrigerator and assemble them fresh when ready to eat. The vinaigrette can also be stored separately; just give it a good shake before using it again.

Typically, prepared salads can last in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but for the best taste and texture, try to consume it within 24 hours. Enjoying fresh ingredients will elevate your meal and keep your taste buds satisfied with every bite!

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, to switch up the flavor while still enjoying that crunchy texture. Additionally, consider adding seasonal fruits like pears or citrus slices, which can provide a zesty twist to this already vibrant salad. Each variation can bring new excitement and inspire creativity in your fall cooking.

For a bit of heat, try incorporating some thinly sliced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes in the vinaigrette. This subtle addition will enhance the salad's flavor, creating a delightful contrast that enhances the sweetness of the apples and the richness of the pecans.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

While the salad can be prepped ahead, it's best to dress it just before serving to keep the greens crisp.

→ What other fruits can I add?

You can add fruits like pears or cranberries for a different flavor profile.