Preparation and Cook Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
## Introduction
Do something different and brighten up your meals with our tasty Cranberry Apple Pecan Salad recipe! This refreshing and colorful combination of fresh apples, tangy cranberries, and crunchy pecans would be a jubilant surprise to your taste buds! Simple yet festive, it’s delightful whether you’re enjoying a family gathering or a relaxed weekday meal.
## Why Make This Recipe
Just can’t handle another heavy meal? Try this Cranberry Apple Pecan Salad! It’s fresh, light, and packed with healthy fruits and veggies. It’s also super quick to make with only 15 minutes from start to finish! With its bright and cheerful combination of fruits, veggies and nuts you’ll be enjoying each flavorful and crunchy bite!
## How To Make Cranberry Apple Pecan Salad
### Ingredients:
– 6 cups mixed salad greens (like arugula, spinach, or romaine)
– 1 large Granny Smith apple, thinly sliced
– 1 large Red Delicious apple, thinly sliced
– 1/3 cup dried cranberries
– 1/3 cup pecans, roughly chopped
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
Dressing:
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and black pepper to taste
### Directions
1. In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced apples, dried cranberries, pecans, feta cheese, and red onion (if you’re using it).
2. In another small bowl or jar, mix the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well blended.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and lightly toss to ensure even coating.
4. Serve the salad immediately and enjoy!
## How To Serve Cranberry Apple Pecan Salad
This salad is a fresh and vibrant side dish that pairs well with any main meal. You can also top it with some grilled chicken or turkey for a light and healthy lunch!
## How To Store Cranberry Apple Pecan Salad
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to consume leftovers within 1-2 days as the salad greens may start to wilt.
## Tips To Make Cranberry Apple Pecan Salad
– Keep your salad fresh: To keep your salad greens crisp, make sure to dry them properly after washing.
– Apple Prep: To prevent your apple slices from browning, toss them in a little lemon juice before adding them to the salad.
– Make it your own: Feel free to swap out any of the ingredients to suit your personal taste. You can use different types of apples, substitute candied pecans for plain, or try a different kind of cheese like blue cheese or goat cheese!
## Variations
For a vegan version, just skip the feta cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute. You can also add some roasted butternut squash or pumpkin to make it a hearty fall salad!
## FAQs
Q1) Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Ans: Fresh cranberries can be quite tart, so if you prefer a sweeter salad, stick with dried.
Q2) Can I make the dressing in advance?
Ans: Absolutely! The dressing can be made in advance and will keep in the fridge for up to a week.
Q3) What other nuts can I use?
Ans: Aside from pecans, this salad would also taste great with walnuts, almonds, or even pistachios!