Apple Arugula Salad w/ Maple Pecans
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Elevate your fall dining experience with this delightful Apple Arugula Salad topped with crunchy maple pecans. This vibrant dish combines the peppery notes of arugula with sweet, crisp apple slices and the rich flavor of caramelized pecans, creating a perfect balance that's both refreshing and satisfying. Ideal as a side or a light main course, this salad is a seasonal favorite that celebrates autumn's bounty.
Enjoy this delicious and wholesome salad that brings together the best flavors of fall.
The Perfect Fall Salad
As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, this Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans captures the essence of fall. The combination of peppery arugula and sweet, juicy apples creates a flavor profile that is both refreshing and comforting. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this salad is an ideal choice that celebrates the season's harvest.
What truly sets this salad apart is the delightful crunch of the maple pecans. Coated in a sweet maple syrup glaze with a hint of cinnamon, these pecans not only add texture to the dish but also elevate the overall flavor. They provide a satisfying contrast to the softness of the apples and the creaminess of the feta cheese, making each bite a delightful experience.
Health Benefits of Arugula and Apples
Arugula is not just a peppery addition to this salad; it’s packed with nutrients that can enhance your health. This leafy green is high in vitamins A, C, and K, and it contains antioxidants that help protect your body from oxidative stress. Including arugula in your diet can support heart health, boost bone strength, and improve digestion, making it a fantastic choice for a healthy lifestyle.
Apples, often referred to as nature's candy, are another star ingredient in this salad. They are a great source of fiber and vitamin C, helping to promote a healthy digestive system and boosting your immune function. The natural sweetness of apples pairs perfectly with the savory elements of the salad, ensuring you enjoy a delicious and nutritious dish.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients:
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups arugula
- 2 medium apples, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
Maple Pecans Ingredients
- 1 cup pecans
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Once collected, you're ready to prepare the salad!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Apple Arugula Salad:
Prepare the Maple Pecans
In a skillet over medium heat, combine pecans, maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the pecans are coated and caramelized. Let cool on parchment paper.
Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine arugula, apple slices, feta cheese, and red onion. Toss gently to mix the ingredients.
Add the Maple Pecans
Top the salad with the cooled maple pecans and give it a gentle toss before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Apple Arugula Salad!
Serving Suggestions
This Apple Arugula Salad is versatile and can be served in various ways. As a side, it complements grilled chicken or pork beautifully. The vibrant flavors can elevate a simple meal, while its nutritional benefits make it a guilt-free addition to any dinner plate. For a light lunch, it can stand alone or be paired with whole grain bread for a satisfying meal.
For a seasonal twist, consider adding roasted squash or pomegranate seeds to the salad. These ingredients enhance the visual appeal and add extra layers of flavor and texture, making it a show-stopping dish for fall gatherings. The salad is also easily adaptable; feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or blue cheese, to cater to your taste.
Storing and Preparing Ahead
If you’re planning to prepare this salad ahead of time, it's best to store the arugula and apple slices separately. This ensures that the arugula remains crisp and does not wilt. You can prepare the maple pecans a day in advance and keep them in an airtight container to maintain their crunchiness.
When ready to serve, simply combine everything in a bowl and toss gently. Drizzle with your favorite dressing, and your salad will be fresh and flavorful. This method allows you to enjoy the salad without compromising its texture, making it perfect for meal prep or impromptu gatherings.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?
It's best to assemble the salad right before serving to keep the arugula fresh and crisp.
→ What type of apples work best?
Sweet and crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji complement the dish perfectly.
Apple Arugula Salad w/ Maple Pecans
Elevate your fall dining experience with this delightful Apple Arugula Salad topped with crunchy maple pecans. This vibrant dish combines the peppery notes of arugula with sweet, crisp apple slices and the rich flavor of caramelized pecans, creating a perfect balance that's both refreshing and satisfying. Ideal as a side or a light main course, this salad is a seasonal favorite that celebrates autumn's bounty.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups arugula
- 2 medium apples, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
Maple Pecans Ingredients
- 1 cup pecans
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
How-To Steps
In a skillet over medium heat, combine pecans, maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the pecans are coated and caramelized. Let cool on parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine arugula, apple slices, feta cheese, and red onion. Toss gently to mix the ingredients.
Top the salad with the cooled maple pecans and give it a gentle toss before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 5g