Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans

Introduction

Fall is a season of crisp air, colorful foliage, and the bounty of harvest, and nothing celebrates autumn quite like a fresh, vibrant salad. Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans is the perfect way to showcase seasonal flavors in a dish that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. With sweet, juicy apples, peppery arugula, tangy goat cheese, chewy figs, and crunchy maple-glazed pecans, this salad is a symphony of flavors and textures that comes together in just 20 minutes.

Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, looking for a light lunch, or simply craving a nutrient-packed meal, this salad is versatile enough to be a full meal with added protein or a sophisticated side that complements nearly any entrée. The balsamic dressing ties all the elements together with a balanced sweet-and-tangy flavor, making each bite vibrant and refreshing.

This salad is a celebration of seasonal produce and elegant simplicity. It’s approachable for home cooks of all levels, yet impressive enough to serve at a dinner party. Plus, it’s highly adaptable for your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Seasonal and fresh: Highlights the best of fall ingredients like apples, figs, and arugula.
• Textural variety: Combines crunchy pecans, creamy goat cheese, and crisp apples.
• Balanced flavors: Sweet, savory, tangy, and nutty in every bite.
• Versatile: Can be a full meal with added protein or a side dish for larger meals.
• Make-ahead friendly: Pecans and dressing can be prepared in advance for convenience.

Ingredients Breakdown

Yield

• Servings: 6

Salad Ingredients

• 3 apples, sliced very thin
• 5 oz arugula
• 1/4 cup red onion, sliced thin
• 1/2 cup figs, chopped
• 1/2 cup goat cheese crumbles

Maple Pecans

• 1 cup pecan halves
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• Pinch of sea salt

Balsamic Dressing

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 2 teaspoons maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1/4–1/2 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Small mixing bowl
• Large salad bowl
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Toast the Maple Pecans

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, toss the pecan halves with 2 tablespoons maple syrup and a pinch of sea salt. Spread the pecans evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 5–7 minutes, until they are toasted and slightly darkened. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.

2. Prepare the Dressing

Whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, pepper, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, and sea salt in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste. Set aside.

3. Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl, place the arugula. Arrange the thinly sliced apples, chopped figs, red onion, and goat cheese crumbles over the greens.

4. Dress the Salad

Just before serving, drizzle about half of the prepared dressing over the salad. Toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are lightly coated.

5. Serve

Top the salad with the cooled maple pecans. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

Freshness Tips

• Add the apple slices just before serving to prevent browning.
• If preparing ahead, soak apple slices in a small bowl of salt water for 5–10 minutes, then drain to maintain color.
• For maximum crispness and flavor, make this salad within an hour of serving.

Variations

• Protein-packed: Add grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or chickpeas for a complete meal.
• Nut-free: Substitute seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for the pecans.
• Vegan option: Use vegan cheese or omit goat cheese entirely.
• Extra sweetness: Add dried cranberries or a drizzle of additional maple syrup.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

This salad strikes a perfect balance between sweet, tangy, and savory elements. The peppery arugula complements the sweet apples and chewy figs, while the goat cheese adds creaminess and mild tang. Maple pecans provide a crunchy, caramelized finish, and the balsamic dressing brings everything together with a harmonious, slightly acidic lift.

Nutritional Overview

This recipe is both nutrient-rich and satisfying. Each serving provides:

• Calories: 379 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Fat: 28 g (Saturated: 5 g, Polyunsaturated: 5 g, Monounsaturated: 16 g)
• Cholesterol: 9 mg
• Sodium: 92 mg
• Potassium: 338 mg
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugar: 21 g
• Vitamin A: 844 IU
• Vitamin C: 9 mg
• Calcium: 101 mg
• Iron: 1 mg

This nutrition is based on using half of the dressing; you can adjust according to taste.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Pecans: Toast in advance and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Dressing: Can be prepared up to a day ahead and refrigerated; whisk before using.
• Salad: Assemble just before serving to maintain texture; apples can be prepped earlier with a brief salt water soak.

FAQs

Can I use other greens instead of arugula?

Yes, baby spinach or mixed greens work well while maintaining a tender texture.

How do I prevent apples from browning?

Add slices right before serving or soak briefly in salt water.

Can I use dried figs?

Yes, dried figs can replace fresh figs. Chop finely and consider soaking in warm water for 5 minutes for extra softness.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Absolutely, the dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Are the maple pecans necessary?

They add texture and flavor, but plain pecans or other nuts can be substituted if preferred.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Stage	Time
Prep Pecans	5 minutes
Toast Pecans	5–7 minutes
Prepare Dressing	5 minutes
Assemble Salad	5 minutes
Total Time	20 minutes

Serving Suggestions

Serve this salad as a light lunch, alongside roasted chicken, or as a starter for a larger dinner. Plate on a shallow salad bowl to showcase the layered ingredients, and garnish with extra pecans or a small drizzle of maple syrup for visual appeal.

Recipe Variations

1. Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or tofu slices for a complete meal.
2. Cranberry Twist: Mix in dried cranberries for added tartness.
3. Nut-Free Crunch: Substitute pumpkin or sunflower seeds for pecans.
4. Cheese Variation: Use blue cheese or feta instead of goat cheese for a tangy twist.

Ingredient Spotlight

Apples

Fresh apples provide crispness and natural sweetness. Choose firm varieties like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji for best texture.

• Selection: Look for unblemished, firm fruit.
• Storage: Store in a cool place or refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Maple Pecans

Maple pecans deliver caramelized sweetness and a satisfying crunch.

• Selection: Choose whole pecan halves for even toasting.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container to preserve flavor and texture.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Toast pecans lightly to release flavor but avoid burning.
• Whisk dressing thoroughly for a smooth, emulsified texture.
• Layer ingredients for a visually appealing salad presentation.
• Add apples last to ensure they remain crisp and vibrant.

Storage & Freezing Guide

Storage

• Store assembled salad in the refrigerator up to 2 hours before serving.
• Keep dressing and nuts separate if preparing ahead.

Freezing

• This salad is best served fresh; freezing is not recommended due to leafy greens and apple texture.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	379 kcal
Carbohydrates	30 g
Protein	6 g
Fat	28 g
Saturated Fat	5 g
Sodium	92 mg
Fiber	5 g
Sugar	21 g

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian-friendly, gluten-free when using certified gluten-free ingredients, nut-containing (pecans)

Expanded Conclusion

Apple Arugula Salad With Maple Pecans is a celebration of fall flavors in every bite. With crisp apples, peppery arugula, sweet figs, tangy goat cheese, and crunchy maple-glazed pecans, it’s a harmonious blend of texture and flavor that’s quick to prepare yet feels gourmet.

Perfect for weekday meals, entertaining, or simply indulging in the beauty of seasonal produce, this salad demonstrates how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. Fresh, vibrant, and satisfying, it’s destined to become a staple in your autumn recipe collection. Prepare, serve, and savor the delightful contrast of flavors that makes this salad a true fall favorite.

Print