Fresh Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad: A Crisp, Colorful, and Flavorful Favorite
Why This Salad Is So Popular
Fresh Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad is a perfect balance of sweet, tart, crunchy, and fresh flavors. It’s a light yet satisfying salad that works beautifully as a side dish or a refreshing main when paired with grilled chicken or turkey. Popular during fall and holiday seasons, this salad brings together crisp apples, chewy dried cranberries, and crunchy pecans for a combination that never fails.
What makes this salad truly special is its contrast in textures. Juicy apples provide freshness, cranberries add a tangy sweetness, and pecans bring a rich, nutty crunch. Finished with a simple, slightly sweet dressing, this salad feels both comforting and elegant—ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or festive gatherings.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
For the Salad
- 3 crisp apples (Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji), thinly sliced or chopped
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup pecans, lightly toasted and roughly chopped
- 4 cups mixed greens (romaine, spinach, or spring mix)
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese (optional)
For the Dressing
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1–2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (to taste)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
How to Make Fresh Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad (Step-by-Step)
1. Prepare the Apples
Wash and slice the apples just before assembling the salad to keep them fresh and crisp. If you’re preparing ahead, toss the apple slices lightly with a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning.
2. Toast the Pecans
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant. Let them cool completely before adding to the salad—this enhances their flavor and crunch.
3. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity as needed.
4. Assemble the Salad
In a large salad bowl, add the mixed greens, sliced apples, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans. Gently toss to combine.
5. Dress and Serve
Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss lightly to coat all ingredients evenly. Sprinkle feta or goat cheese on top if using.
Serving Suggestions
This apple cranberry pecan salad pairs wonderfully with:
- Roasted chicken or turkey
- Grilled salmon
- Holiday meals like Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners
It can also stand alone as a light lunch when topped with grilled chicken or roasted chickpeas.
Tips for the Best Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad
- Use firm, sweet-tart apples for the best flavor and texture.
- Toasting the pecans makes a big difference—don’t skip this step.
- Add the dressing right before serving to keep the greens fresh.
- For extra flavor, try candied pecans instead of plain toasted ones.
Variations You’ll Love
- Autumn version: Add roasted butternut squash
- Protein boost: Top with grilled chicken or turkey
- Vegan option: Skip the cheese and use maple syrup