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Apple Arugula Salad


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  • Author: sara
  • Total Time: 22 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Apple Arugula Salad is a refreshing, sweet, and savory combination of crisp apples, peppery arugula, chewy dried figs, crunchy maple-roasted pecans, and creamy goat cheese, all tossed in a homemade balsamic dressing. Perfect for fall gatherings, light lunches, or a gourmet side dish!


Ingredients

For the Salad:

  • 5 oz baby arugula (about 5 cups)
  • 3 apples (Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp), thinly sliced
  • ½ cup dried figs, chopped
  • ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup goat cheese crumbles

For the Maple Pecans:

  • 1 cup pecan halves
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • Pinch of sea salt

For the Balsamic Dressing:

  • ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons pure maple syrup
  • 1½ teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • ¼½ teaspoon sea salt, to taste
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Maple Pecans:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, toss pecan halves with maple syrup and sea salt until well coated.
  3. Spread pecans in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  4. Roast for 5–7 minutes until golden brown and fragrant (watch closely to prevent burning).
  5. Remove from oven and let cool completely.

2. Prepare the Balsamic Dressing:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together:
    • Balsamic vinegar
    • Maple syrup
    • Dijon mustard
    • Lemon juice
    • Minced garlic
  2. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify the dressing.
  3. Season with sea salt and black pepper to taste.

3. Assemble the Salad:

  1. In a large salad bowl, combine:
    • Baby arugula
    • Sliced apples
    • Chopped dried figs
    • Thinly sliced red onion
  2. Add cooled maple pecans and goat cheese crumbles.
  3. Drizzle half of the balsamic dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  4. Serve immediately with extra dressing on the side.

Notes

  • Make It Vegan: Swap goat cheese for vegan feta or omit it altogether.
  • Add Protein: Top with grilled chicken or chickpeas for a hearty meal.
  • Storage: Store dressing separately; salad is best enjoyed fresh.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7 minutes
  • Category: Salad, Side Dish, Fall Recipes
  • Method: Raw, Roasting
  • Cuisine: American, Mediterranean-Inspired