Apple Pecan Fall Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing

Imagine the essence of fall in every bite: crisp apples, butter‑toasted pecans, creamy goat cheese, all brightened with a tangy-sweet maple Dijon dressing. This salad is the perfect harmony of fresh crunch and creamy richness—ideal as a light lunch, an elegant side for family dinners, or a festive plate for holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving. It’s easy to prepare yet packed with seasonal flavor, making it an autumn favorite you’ll return to again and again.

Why This Salad Captures Fall

• Seasonal highlights: Apples and pecans are quintessential autumn ingredients—crisp, nutty, and comforting.

• Flavor balance: Sweet-tart apples, tangy goat cheese, smoky dressing, and crunchy nuts create a symphony of textures.

• Versatile and elegant: Fancy enough for guests, simple enough for weeknight cooking.

• Meal-prep friendly: Greens stay fresh when dressing is added just before serving.

• Nutrient-rich: Loaded with fiber, polyphenols, healthy fats, and probiotics (if you include goat cheese).

Ingredients You’ll Need

Salad Components

• 6 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, baby kale, or spring mix)

• 2 crisp apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji), thinly sliced

• ½ cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped

• ¼ cup creamy goat cheese crumbles

• Optional extras: dried cranberries/raisins, sliced pears, pumpkin seeds

Maple Dijon Dressing

• ¼ cup pure maple syrup

• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or fresh lemon juice

• ¼ cup extra‑virgin olive oil (or your favorite neutral oil)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Optional: pinch of cinnamon or allspice for warm undertones

Step‑by‑Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salad Base

Set your mixed greens into a large salad bowl or platter. Keep them chilled until ready to dress.

Step 2: Thinly Slice Apples

Wash and core the apples, then slice them thinly—aim for uniform pieces to ensure even texture in every bite. To prevent browning, toss them lightly with a few drops of lemon juice.

Step 3: Toast the Pecans

In a skillet over medium heat (or in the oven), toast pecans until fragrant and lightly golden—just 3–4 minutes. Stir often to avoid burning. Then roughly chop them for better distribution in the salad.

Step 4: Whisk the Maple Dijon Dressing

In a small bowl or a jar with a lid, combine maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and vinegar (or lemon juice). Whisk gradually while drizzling in olive oil until emulsified. Season with salt, pepper, and optional warm spices as desired.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

Arrange apple slices over the greens, scatter goat cheese crumbles and toasted pecans, and optionally add dried fruit or seeds.

Step 6: Dress & Serve

Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving—start with half, toss gently, taste, and add more if needed.

Tips & Customizations

• Greens selection: Use hearty greens like kale or chard if you’ll pack or prep the salad ahead of time.

• Nut substitutes: Walnuts, almonds, or pumpkin seeds offer different textures and flavors.

• Make it dairy-free: Skip goat cheese or use plant-based alternatives.

• Protein boost: Add sliced grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa to make it a fuller entrée.

• Fruit variations: Pears, pomegranates, or grapes complement the theme beautifully.

• Spice the dressing: A pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika gives the salad a subtle kick.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs elegantly with:

• Roast turkey or chicken

• Pumpkin or butternut soup

• Grain bowls or autumn vegetable stews

• Warm bread like focaccia or sweet cornbread for a complete seasonal spread

FAQ — Your Questions Answered

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes! Store it in a sealed container for up to a week in the fridge. Bring it to room temperature and re-emulsify before serving.

How can I prevent apple browning longer than a couple of hours?
Lightly toss slices with lemon juice or soak them in cold salted water (1 tsp salt per cup) for a few minutes before using—then drain and dry well.

How long will this salad stay freshest?
Assembled without dressing, in an airtight container, it stays crisp in the fridge for up to two days. Add dressing just before serving to avoid soggy greens.

Are there any nut-free substitutions?
Yes! Sub in roasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds, or use air-roasted chickpeas for crunch.

Can I make this vegan-friendly?
Absolutely. Omit goat cheese or use vegan cheese alternative, use maple syrup for the dressing, and ensure all components align with dietary preferences.

Nutritional Highlights

Per serving (approximate, without dressing): rich in fiber, vitamins A and C (from greens and apples), healthy fats (pecans), probiotics (goat cheese), and natural sugars.

Final Thoughts

The Apple Pecan Fall Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing is a celebration of autumn’s best flavors—crisp apples, rich pecans, creamy cheese, and warming sweetness from the dressing. Whether you’re looking for a light dinner side, a festive holiday dish, or a nourishing lunch, this salad delivers seasonal comfort and refreshing crunch in every bite.