Description

Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans is a vibrant and flavorful dish that embodies the essence of fall. Featuring crisp apples, peppery arugula, and creamy goat cheese, this salad is enhanced by sweet maple pecans and a tangy balsamic dressing. Perfect for autumn gatherings or as a light meal, it delivers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will impress your guests. Whether served as a side dish or a main course topped with protein, this salad is versatile and easy to prepare, making it an ideal addition to any table.

Ingredients

Scale

3 apples, thinly sliced
5 oz arugula
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup figs, chopped
½ cup goat cheese crumbles
1 cup pecan halves
2 tablespoons maple syrup (for pecans)
½ cup olive oil (for dressing)
2 teaspoons maple syrup (for dressing)
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1½ teaspoons Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 garlic clove, minced
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
¼–½ teaspoon sea salt, to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and toss pecans with maple syrup and sea salt. Spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes until toasted. Let cool.
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, black pepper, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, and sea salt for the dressing.
In a large salad bowl, layer arugula with sliced apples, chopped figs, red onion, goat cheese crumbles, and cooled pecans.
Drizzle half of the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl (200g)
Calories: 320
Sugar: 14g
Sodium: 220mg
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Customize by adding grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. Serve immediately after adding apples to keep them crisp.