Description
This Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans is a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. Crisp apples, peppery arugula, and creamy goat cheese are tossed with a maple-balsamic vinaigrette and topped with crunchy maple pecans.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 3 apples, thinly sliced
- 5 ounces arugula
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped figs
- 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
For the Maple Pecans:
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- Pinch of sea salt
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 teaspoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
Instructions
- Toast Pecans: Preheat oven to 350°F. Toss pecans with maple syrup and salt. Spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until toasted. Cool completely.
- Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, pepper, garlic, balsamic vinegar, and salt. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Assemble Salad: Just before serving, add arugula to a large salad bowl. Arrange apple slices, figs, red onion, and goat cheese on top. Drizzle with about half of the dressing and toss gently.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with the maple pecans and serve immediately.
Notes
- Nutrition: The provided nutrition information is based on using half of the dressing.
- Make Ahead: For best results, add apples just before serving to prevent browning. If making ahead, soak apple slices in salted water to prevent browning.
- Freshness: Make the salad within an hour of serving for the best flavor and texture.
- Variations:
- Substitute pears for apples.
- Use dried cranberries or cherries instead of figs.
- Add grilled chicken or salmon for a heartier salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Serving
- Calories: 310kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 7mg
