Crisp Apple-Pecan Salad with Vinaigrette is a refreshing dish that combines the crunch of fresh vegetables with the sweetness of apples and the richness of pecans. This salad is perfect as a side or a light meal, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.
Why Make This Recipe
This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The mixed greens provide fiber and vitamins, while the apples add a touch of sweetness and crunch. Pecans contribute healthy fats and a satisfying texture. Plus, the homemade vinaigrette brings all the flavors together without overpowering the fresh ingredients.
How to Make Crisp Apple-Pecan Salad with Vinaigrette
Making this salad is quick and easy. You’ll start by gathering all your fresh ingredients. Then, toss them together in a large bowl for a colorful and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups mixed greens
- 2 cups apples, diced
- 1 cup pecans, toasted
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup apple cider
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced apples, toasted pecans, crumbled feta cheese, and thinly sliced red onion.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the apple cider, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper to create the vinaigrette.
- Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Serve immediately for the best freshness and taste.
How to Serve Crisp Apple-Pecan Salad with Vinaigrette
Serve this salad as a light lunch, a side with dinner, or on a special occasion. It pairs well with grilled chicken or fish. You can also add more toppings like grilled shrimp or additional vegetables for a heartier meal.
How to Store Crisp Apple-Pecan Salad with Vinaigrette
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, keep the vinaigrette separate if you plan to store it for more than a few hours. This will prevent the greens from wilting. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it will be fine in the fridge for up to 1 day.
Tips to Make Crisp Apple-Pecan Salad with Vinaigrette
- Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for more complex flavors.
- Toast the pecans in a dry skillet for a few minutes to enhance their flavor.
- Feel free to add other ingredients like grilled chicken, cranberries, or other nuts to make it your own.
Variation
For a different twist, you can substitute the feta cheese with goat cheese or omit it completely for a dairy-free version. You could also replace the pecans with walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use other greens instead of mixed greens?
Yes! You can use spinach, arugula, or kale as alternatives.
2. How can I make this salad vegan?
To make the salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese and honey, and use a plant-based sweetener instead.
3. Is there a way to make the vinaigrette healthier?
You can reduce the amount of oil and add more apple cider vinegar or use a low-calorie sweetener in place of honey to lighten it up.
Crisp Apple-Pecan Salad
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 3 cups mixed greens Any variety of mixed greens can be used.
- 2 cups apples, diced Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for more flavor.
- 1 cup pecans, toasted Toast in a dry skillet for enhanced flavor.
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled Can be replaced with goat cheese or omitted for a dairy-free version.
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced Adjust quantity based on preference.
Vinaigrette Ingredients
- ½ cup apple cider
- ¼ cup olive oil Can reduce amount for a lighter option.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey Use a plant-based sweetener for a vegan version.
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced apples, toasted pecans, crumbled feta cheese, and thinly sliced red onion.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the apple cider, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper to create the vinaigrette.
- Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
