Description
A vibrant and refreshing Cranberry Pecan Salad featuring mixed greens, dried cranberries, candied pecans, goat cheese, apple slices, and red onion, all tossed in a tangy apple cider vinaigrette. Perfect as a light meal or a festive side dish, this salad combines crunchy textures with sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (such as spinach, arugula, and romaine)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup candied pecans
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta
- 1 small apple, thinly sliced
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large salad bowl, add the mixed greens, dried cranberries, candied pecans, crumbled goat cheese, thinly sliced apple, and red onion. Gently toss to mix all components evenly.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the dressing is well emulsified and smooth.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are coated with the dressing.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately to maintain the freshness and crisp textures.
Notes
- Swap pecans with walnuts and goat cheese with blue cheese for variations.
- For a heartier salad, add grilled chicken or cooked quinoa.
- The dressing can be prepared up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
