Introduction
Looking for a salad that’s fresh, flavorful, and packed with textures? This Crisp Apple Pecan Salad with Tangy Apple Cider Vinaigrette has it all—crunchy apples, toasted pecans, sweet dried cranberries, and creamy blue cheese all atop a bed of mixed greens. Drizzled with a tangy apple cider vinaigrette, this salad offers the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and savory flavors. It’s a great option for a light lunch, a side dish, or a crowd-pleasing holiday salad.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for You
This salad is perfect for anyone who wants a quick, delicious, and nutritious dish. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, holiday gathering, or just want a refreshing meal, the combination of fresh ingredients and homemade vinaigrette will impress. With a variety of textures from crunchy apples and pecans to creamy blue cheese, this salad offers a burst of flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup light vegetable oil (sunflower, safflower, or extra-virgin olive oil)
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup unsweetened apple juice or apple cider
- 2 to 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Salad:
- 3 medium Honeycrisp apples (about 1 pound), thinly sliced
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 12 ounces mixed salad greens (spring mix, baby spinach, arugula, or baby romaine)
- 1 cup pecan halves (toasted or candied)
- ¾ cup dried cranberries or dried cherries
- 4 ounces crumbled blue cheese
Directions
1. Make the Vinaigrette
In a mason jar, combine the vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, apple juice, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Seal the jar tightly and give it a good shake until all ingredients are well blended. You can also whisk everything together in a bowl or use a blender for a smoother consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
2. Prepare the Apples
To keep the apple slices fresh and prevent browning, place the thinly sliced Honeycrisp apples in a plastic bag. Drizzle with the juice of ½ lemon and shake the bag to coat the apples. This adds a little extra zing and ensures your apples stay bright and fresh.
3. Assemble the Salad
In a large salad bowl, layer the mixed salad greens. Top with the lemon-coated apple slices, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and crumbled blue cheese. The combination of these ingredients creates a perfect mix of textures and flavors.
4. Dress and Serve
Right before serving, pour your desired amount of the apple cider vinaigrette over the salad. Toss gently to evenly coat the ingredients with the dressing. Serve immediately, and enjoy the crisp, tangy, and sweet flavors!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mason jar or small bowl for the vinaigrette
- Large salad bowl for assembling the salad
- Sharp knife for slicing apples
- Plastic bag for tossing apple slices with lemon juice
Tips and Shortcuts
- Make Ahead: You can make the vinaigrette in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before using.
- Apple Substitutes: If Honeycrisp apples aren’t available, you can use other crisp apple varieties like Fuji, Gala, or Granny Smith.
- Quick Toasted Pecans: To quickly toast pecans, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Recipe Swaps and Variations
- Cheese Swap: If blue cheese isn’t your favorite, try goat cheese or feta for a similar creamy texture with a milder flavor.
- Nut Options: Swap pecans for toasted walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different type of crunch.
- Fruit Variations: You can replace the dried cranberries with dried cherries or golden raisins for a different flavor twist.
How to Store Leftovers
If you anticipate having leftovers, keep the salad components and dressing separate. Store the assembled salad (without the dressing) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The vinaigrette can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Toss the salad with the vinaigrette just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.
Food and Drink Pairings
This Crisp Apple Pecan Salad pairs beautifully with a light, chilled Chardonnay or Riesling. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with sparkling apple cider or a citrus-infused sparkling water. The tangy apple cider vinaigrette complements the sweet and savory elements of the salad, making it a perfect dish to enjoy year-round.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use store-bought dressing instead of making my own?
A: Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use store-bought apple cider vinaigrette. However, making your own dressing will give you a fresher, more vibrant flavor.
Q: How can I make this salad vegan?
A: To make this salad vegan, simply swap the honey in the dressing for maple syrup or agave nectar, and omit the blue cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese option.
Q: Can I add protein to this salad?
A: Absolutely! Grilled chicken, turkey, or even roasted chickpeas would be a great addition to make this salad a more filling meal.
Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce recipe.
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Crisp Apple Pecan Salad with Tangy Apple Cider Vinaigrette
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Description
Crisp Apple Pecan Salad with Tangy Apple Cider Vinaigrette: A refreshing mix of apples, pecans, and greens, topped with a zesty, homemade vinaigrette.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-6 servings
- Calories: 350 kcal