Go Back
Pin Recipe Print Recipe

Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans

This fall-inspired salad features crisp apples, maple-glazed pecans, creamy goat cheese, and figs on a bed of peppery arugula. It’s topped with a tangy balsamic dressing for a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time5 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 379kcal

Ingredients

Salad:

  • 3 apples thinly sliced
  • 5 oz arugula
  • ¼ cup red onion thinly sliced
  • ½ cup figs chopped
  • ½ cup goat cheese crumbles

Maple Pecans:

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

Dressing:

  • ½ cup olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons maple syrup
  • 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

Instructions

Prepare the Maple Pecans

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Toss the pecan halves with the maple syrup and a pinch of sea salt.
  • Spread the pecans in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  • Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the pecans are toasted and slightly darkened.
  • Remove from the oven and let them cool completely.

Make the Dressing

  • In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, black pepper, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, and sea salt.
  • Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Assemble the Salad

  • In a large salad bowl, add the arugula.
  • Arrange the sliced apples, chopped figs, red onion, goat cheese crumbles, and cooled maple pecans on top of the greens.

Dress and Serve

  • Just before serving, drizzle about half of the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat.
  • Serve with the remaining dressing on the side for those who prefer extra. Enjoy!

Notes

Apples: Add them just before serving to keep them fresh. Use saltwater to prevent browning if prepping ahead.
Make Ahead: Assemble the components separately and combine just before serving for optimal freshness.
Dressing: Adjust sweetness or acidity to taste by tweaking the maple syrup and balsamic vinegar.