A fresh and vibrant Apple Arugula Salad featuring thinly sliced apples, peppery arugula, sweet figs, tangy goat cheese, and crunchy maple-glazed pecans, all tossed with a flavorful balsamic maple dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or a side dish for dinner.
Total Time:22 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Ingredients
Salad
3 apples, sliced very thin
5 oz arugula
1/4 cup red onion, sliced thin
1/2 cup figs, chopped
1/2 cup goat cheese crumbles
Maple Pecans
1 cup pecan halves
2 Tbsp maple syrup
pinch of sea salt
Dressing
1/2 cup olive oil
2 tsp maple syrup
1 tsp lemon juice
1 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp pepper
1 garlic clove, minced
3 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
1/4-1/2 tsp sea salt, or to taste
Instructions
Prepare maple pecans: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Toss the pecan halves with 2 tablespoons of maple syrup and a pinch of sea salt until well coated. Spread them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 7 minutes or until the pecans are toasted and slightly darkened. Remove from oven and allow them to cool completely.
Make the dressing: In a bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup olive oil, 2 teaspoons maple syrup, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, 1 minced garlic clove, 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, and 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon sea salt. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Assemble the salad: Place arugula into a large salad bowl. Arrange the thinly sliced apples, chopped figs, red onion slices, and goat cheese crumbles on top of the greens.
Toss and serve: Just before serving, drizzle about half of the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients. Sprinkle the cooled maple pecans on top for a sweet crunch. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Use a sharp knife or a mandoline to slice apples very thinly for the best texture and presentation.
Maple pecans can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
If figs are not in season, dried figs soaked briefly in warm water can be used as a substitute.
Adjust the amount of sea salt in the dressing according to your taste preference.
For a vegan variation, substitute goat cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative.
