Name: Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans: Fall Flavor Bliss
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 3 cups Arugula (Provides a peppery bite; can substitute with spinach or mixed greens.); 2 cups Apples (Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp varieties work best.); 1 medium Red Onion (Offers a sharp flavor, can use shallots for milder taste.); 1 cup Figs (Contributes sweetness and chewy texture; substitute with dried cranberries if desired.); 4 ounces Goat Cheese Crumbles (Adds creaminess; feta or blue cheese can work.); 1 cup Pecan Halves (For crunch; substitute with walnuts or almonds if preferred.); 2 tablespoons Maple Syrup (Provides sweetness.); 3 tablespoons Olive Oil (Adds richness; avocado oil can be substituted.); 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Adds acidity; apple cider vinegar can be used.); 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard (Infuses tanginess; honey mustard for a sweeter alternative.); 1 teaspoon Sea Salt (Enhances flavor.); 1 teaspoon Pepper (Adds seasoning.); 1 clove Garlic (Provides aromatic depth; can substitute with garlic powder.)

As I diced the crisp apples, their sweet scent filled my kitchen, bringing a shimmer of autumn to my day. This Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans quickly became one of my go-to recipes, perfect for those busy evenings when I crave something fresh yet satisfying. In just 20 minutes, this gorgeous fall salad comes together, featuring the delightful crunch of roasted maple pecans, creamy goat cheese, and the subtle peppery kick of arugula. It’s a wonderful way to embrace the season’s bounty while serving as a healthy escape from fast food temptations. Whether enjoyed as a standalone lunch or paired with grilled chicken for dinner, this salad is sure to impress. Are you ready to savor the essence of fall on your plate?

Why is this salad a must-try?

Quick and Easy: In just 20 minutes, you can whip up an exquisite dish that brightens any meal.

Fall-Inspired Freshness: The crisp apples and peppery arugula capture the essence of autumn, making every bite feel like a seasonal celebration.

Nutty Delight: Crunchy roasted maple pecans enhance the salad’s depth with their irresistible sweetness, perfectly complementing the other flavors.

Versatile Pairings: Enjoy it** alone for lunch** or as a side to your favorite grilled meats, like chicken or salmon, for a complete meal.

Nutrient-Rich Option: Packed with nutrition, this satisfying salad is a guilt-free pleasure that helps you resist fast food temptations.

Elevate your culinary experience with this irresistible Apple Arugula Salad! If you’re looking for more delightful salads, be sure to check out my Mango Cucumber Salad with Blueberries and Avocado and the refreshing Shredded Thai Salad with Avocado.

Apple Arugula Salad Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to create this delightful fall salad!

For the Salad

Apples – Adds sweetness and crispness; Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp varieties work best.
Arugula – Provides a peppery bite; can be substituted with spinach or mixed greens.
Red Onion – Offers a sharp flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness; shallots can be used for a milder option.
Figs – Contributes sweetness and chewy texture; swap with dried cranberries or raisins if needed.
Goat Cheese Crumbles – Adds creaminess and tang; feta or crumbled blue cheese can provide a different taste profile.
Pecan Halves – For crunch and flavor depth; substitute with walnuts or almonds if desired.

For the Dressing

Maple Syrup (for pecans) – Provides a sweet glaze; honey or agave syrup can be used if that’s what you have on hand.
Olive Oil – Adds richness to the dressing; avocado oil is a great substitute.
Lemon Juice – Adds acidity to balance flavors; apple cider or white wine vinegar can be swapped in for brightness.
Dijon Mustard – Infuses tanginess into the dressing; honey mustard is a sweeter alternative if preferred.
Sea Salt – Enhances all flavors throughout the dish; kosher or table salt can be used.
Pepper – Adds seasoning; black or white pepper can be interchanged.
Garlic Clove – Provides aromatic depth; garlic powder can be substituted in a pinch.

Create stunning plates with this Apple Arugula Salad that celebrates the flavors of fall!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s perfectly ready for roasting. This step is essential for achieving that delightful crunch in the maple pecans. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients to streamline the process—the aromatic scents will soon fill your kitchen!

Step 2: Roast the Pecans
In a mixing bowl, toss the pecan halves with maple syrup and a sprinkle of sea salt. Spread them out evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they’re not overlapping. Bake in the preheated oven for 5 to 7 minutes or until they are lightly toasted and fragrant. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning, then set aside to cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
While your pecans cool, grab a medium bowl and whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, freshly cracked pepper, minced garlic, and balsamic vinegar. Taste and adjust with a pinch of sea salt if needed. This zesty dressing will beautifully elevate your Apple Arugula Salad, bringing all the flavors together.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large salad bowl, add a generous amount of fresh arugula as your base. Layer it with thinly sliced apples, quartered figs, and crumbled goat cheese for a sumptuous combination. Finally, sprinkle the cooled, roasted maple pecans over the top. The vibrant colors and textures are sure to entice your guests.

Step 5: Dress and Serve
Just before serving, drizzle half of the prepared dressing over the salad. Toss gently to combine, ensuring each ingredient is coated lightly for maximum flavor. Serve immediately to enjoy the crispness of the apples and the delightful crunch of the pecans in your Apple Arugula Salad.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans in advance is a game-changer for busy weeknights! You can roast the maple pecans and store them in an airtight container for up to three days, keeping their crunch intact. Similarly, slice your apples and soak them in salted water for up to 24 hours to prevent browning; just drain and pat them dry before mixing. The dressing can be whisked together and refrigerated for several days, ensuring all the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to enjoy your salad, simply combine the arugula, apples, goat cheese, and roasted pecans with the dressing just before serving to maintain that fresh, vibrant taste. This way, you’ll savor the essence of fall with remarkable ease!

What to Serve with Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans

Treat your guests to a well-rounded meal that complements the bright notes of your salad.

Grilled Chicken: Juicy and savory, the tender chicken brings protein to the table, creating a balanced bite with every forkful. It’s a classic pairing, adding heartiness without overshadowing the salad’s freshness.
Roasted Salmon: The rich, buttery flavor of salmon harmonizes beautifully with the apple and arugula, making for an elegant and satisfying dish. The warm fish contrasts nicely with the crisp textures, enhancing your dining experience.
Quinoa Pilaf: Light and nutty, quinoa pilaf provides a delightful chewiness that complements the crunchy pecans. Add some herbs for freshness, making it a nutritious side that pairs well with the salad’s peppery undertones.
Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses like brie or sharp cheddar offers creaminess and varying textures, enticing guests to explore flavor combinations. Serve with crackers for an inviting addition that rounds out the meal.
Crispy Breadsticks: These offer a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the salad’s lushness while providing a great vessel for the dressing. Warm breadsticks invite sharing and create a cozy dining atmosphere.
Sparkling Cider: A refreshing drink choice, sparkling cider adds a touch of sweetness and bubbles, balancing the salad’s tanginess. Its seasonal charm makes it a perfect sipping companion for your fall-inspired meal.
Pumpkin Pie: Finish your culinary experience with a slice of warm pumpkin pie. The spiced sweetness beautifully echoes the flavors of the salad, making for a delightful dessert that guests will reminisce about!

How to Store and Freeze Apple Arugula Salad

Fridge: Store any leftover Apple Arugula Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the crispness of the apples, add them fresh just before serving.

Room Temperature: If served as a single meal, the salad can sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour. Beyond that, it’s best to refrigerate to avoid wilting and loss of freshness.

Reheating: While this salad is best enjoyed cold, if you’ve added grilled chicken or other proteins, briefly microwave the chicken separately before serving. Keep the salad components fresh and cool.

Make-Ahead Tips: For optimal taste and texture, prepare the components in advance but combine them only when ready to serve. This way, the flavors remain fresh and vibrant!

Expert Tips for Apple Arugula Salad

Fresh is Best: Use very fresh ingredients to ensure the salad is vibrant and flavorful. For optimal taste, make the Apple Arugula Salad just before serving.
Prevent Browning: To keep your apples looking fresh, soak the slices in salted water for about 10 minutes before adding them to the salad. This simple trick helps maintain their crispness.
Adjust the Dressing: Don’t hesitate to alter the dressing quantities based on your own preferences. This Apple Arugula Salad is versatile, and you can tailor the dressing for a lighter or more intense flavor.
Mind the Pecans: Watch your maple pecans closely as they bake. Nuts can go from perfect to burnt quickly, so pull them out as soon as they are golden brown and aromatic.
Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas to the salad. This not only boosts the nutritional value but enhances the overall taste experience.

Apple Arugula Salad Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to customize this delightful salad to suit your tastes and preferences!

Dairy-Free: Substitute goat cheese with avocado slices or a cashew cheese for a creamy, dairy-free option.
Nuts Swap: If pecans are not your favorite, walnuts or sliced almonds will provide a lovely crunch and flavor too.
Fruity Twist: Add pomegranate seeds or fresh berries instead of figs to introduce a new layer of sweetness and color.
Protein Boost: Toss in grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa to make this salad heartier for a satisfying meal.
Spicy Kick: Amp up the heat with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or some thinly sliced jalapeños in the mix!

If you enjoyed this Apple Arugula Salad, try pairing it with my Cucumber Salad Deliciously or consider adding it to your lunch alongside a slice of Apple Crisp Warm for a complete fall-inspired feast!

Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans Recipe FAQs

What type of apples should I use for the best flavor in my Apple Arugula Salad?
I recommend using Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp apples for the sweetest and crispest bite. These varieties add just the right amount of sweetness to balance the peppery arugula and creamy goat cheese.

How long can I store leftover salad?
You can store leftover Apple Arugula Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To prevent the apples from browning, I suggest adding them fresh just before serving for maximum crispness and flavor.

Can I freeze the salad?
Freezing is not recommended for this salad, as the texture of the fresh ingredients, particularly the arugula and apples, will suffer. However, you can freeze the roasted maple pecans for up to 3 months. Just ensure they are in an airtight container after cooling completely for optimal freshness.

What’s a good substitution if I have allergies to nuts?
Absolutely! If you or someone you’re serving has nut allergies, you can omit the pecans altogether. Alternatively, you can add crunchy seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for that much-needed texture without the allergens.

How can I prevent my apples from browning before serving?
To keep your apples looking fresh and appealing, soak the sliced apples in a mixture of cold water and a pinch of salt for about 10 minutes. This simple step will help maintain their crispness and vibrant color, ensuring a beautiful presentation for your salad.