why make this recipe
Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad is a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors. This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It makes a great side dish for any meal or a refreshing main dish on its own. The combination of crisp apples, chewy cranberries, crunchy pecans, and creamy feta creates a satisfying texture and taste. Plus, it is easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
how to make Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh apples (sliced, about 2 medium apples)
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup toasted pecans (roughly chopped)
- 4 cups mixed greens (spinach and arugula blend)
- 1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
- 1/4 cup balsamic dressing (homemade or store-bought)
Directions:
- Wash and slice the apples into thin wedges.
- Roughly chop the toasted pecans.
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens with apple slices for a beautiful base.
- Add dried cranberries and chopped pecans; toss gently to mix.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top.
- Whisk together balsamic dressing ingredients (olive oil, vinegar, honey, salt, pepper) in a small bowl.
- Just before serving, drizzle dressing over the salad and toss lightly. Plate immediately for freshness.
how to serve Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad
Serve Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad as a side dish or a main course. It pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or as part of a buffet spread. For an added touch, serve it on chilled plates to enhance the flavors. You can also garnish with extra pecans or a few apple slices on top to make it look even more appealing.
how to store Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best to keep the dressing separate and only add it when you are ready to serve. This helps maintain the freshness of the greens and prevents them from getting soggy.
tips to make Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad
- Choose firm, crisp apples for the best texture. Varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well.
- Make sure to toast the pecans before adding them to enhance their flavor. You can do this by placing them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes.
- For a sweeter salad, consider adding a drizzle of honey over the top along with the balsamic dressing.
variation
You can easily customize this salad. Try adding grilled chicken for protein or swapping feta for goat cheese if you prefer a different flavor. Seasonal fruits like pears or oranges can also be great additions.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients in advance, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the greens fresh.
2. What can I use instead of pecans?
If you don’t have pecans, walnuts or almonds make great substitutes. You can also omit nuts for a nut-free version.
3. Is there a gluten-free option for the balsamic dressing?
Typically, balsamic vinegar is gluten-free, but always check labels when using store-bought dressings. You can easily make your own dressing at home to ensure it’s gluten-free.
Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad
A delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors with crisp apples, chewy cranberries, crunchy pecans, and creamy feta, perfect as a side dish or a main course.
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh apples (sliced, about 2 medium apples)
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup toasted pecans (roughly chopped)
- 4 cups mixed greens (spinach and arugula blend)
- 1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
- 1/4 cup balsamic dressing (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions
- Wash and slice the apples into thin wedges.
- Roughly chop the toasted pecans.
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens with apple slices for a beautiful base.
- Add dried cranberries and chopped pecans; toss gently to mix.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top.
- Whisk together balsamic dressing ingredients in a small bowl.
- Just before serving, drizzle dressing over the salad and toss lightly. Plate immediately for freshness.
Notes
For best texture, choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Toast the pecans to enhance flavor. Add honey for a sweeter salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg