Apple Arugula Salad

Name: Apple Arugula Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 apples, sliced very thin; 5 oz arugula; 1/4 c red onion, sliced thin; 1/2 c figs, chopped; 1/2 c goat cheese crumbles; 1 c pecan halves; 2 T maple syrup (for pecans); pinch of sea salt (for pecans); 1/2 c olive oil (for dressing); 2 tsp maple syrup (for dressing); 1 tsp lemon juice; 1 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard; 1/2 pepper; 1 garlic clove, minced; 3 T balsamic vinegar; 1/4-1/2 tsp sea salt (for dressing, or to taste)

Author: Lora

Published: August 26, 2025

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Introduction to Apple Arugula Salad

As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to find time to whip up a meal that’s both delicious and nutritious. That’s why I absolutely adore this Apple Arugula Salad! It’s like savoring a burst of fresh goodness in every bite. The combination of crisp apples, peppery arugula, and creamy goat cheese creates a delightful harmony that dances on your taste buds. Plus, it comes together in just 25 minutes! Whether it’s a quick lunch or a vibrant side for dinner, this salad is a fantastic option for anyone looking to bring some brightness to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Arugula Salad

This Apple Arugula Salad is a lifesaver for those busy days. It’s quick to prepare, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish. The refreshing flavors of crunchy apples and peppery arugula make it incredibly satisfying. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, helping you feel great while enjoying every tasty bite. Trust me, once you taste this salad, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Ingredients for Apple Arugula Salad

Let’s gather our ingredients and prepare for a delightful culinary adventure! This Apple Arugula Salad calls for a vibrant lineup that brings freshness and flavor to your plate. Here’s what you’ll need:

Apples: Choose crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
Arugula: This peppery green packs a punch! It adds a zesty kick, making your salad lively and engaging.
Red Onion: Sliced thin for a mild flavor that gives just the right bite without overpowering the other ingredients.
Figs: These little gems bring natural sweetness and a chewy texture, making the salad even more interesting.
Goat Cheese: Creamy and tangy, this cheese complements the sweetness of the apples and figs beautifully.
Pecan Halves: These provide a wonderful crunch. Toss them in maple syrup for a sweet and nutty surprise.
Maple Syrup: Adds a warm sweetness to the pecans and the dressing. Pure maple syrup is the best choice, of course!
Olive Oil: A key player in the dressing, it brings richness without overpowering the fresh flavors.
Balsamic Vinegar: This balances the sweetness with a tangy depth, enhancing every bite of your salad.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice will brighten up your dressing, adding a refreshing zing.
Dijon Mustard: Just a hint of this mustard gives your dressing a subtle complexity.
Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the dressing with aromatic warmth, creating a comforting flavor profile.
Sea Salt: Elevates all the flavors in your salad, so use it to taste for a perfect finish.

You can check below for the exact measurements of each ingredient! Feel free to mix and match or substitute any of these according to what you have on hand. Enjoying this fantastic Apple Arugula Salad can be as creative as you like!

How to Make Apple Arugula Salad

Let’s dive into the fun part—making the Apple Arugula Salad! I promise, it’s a lot easier than it sounds. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to enjoying a beautiful dish that’s as tasty as it is healthy.

Step 1: Prepare the Maple Pecans

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a bowl, toss your pecan halves with maple syrup and a pinch of sea salt. The smell of maple and nuts together is almost irresistible!

Spread the pecans onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for about 5-7 minutes until they are toasted and a hint darker. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning—nobody enjoys bitter nuts!

Once done, let them cool while you move on to the next step.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and sea salt.

Grab a whisk and blend until smooth. The balsamic paired with maple syrup creates a heavenly dressing.

Taste and adjust—I usually add a little more lemon juice for zest or maple syrup for sweetness. It’s all about your preference!

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Grab a large salad bowl and add your fresh arugula.

Layer the thinly sliced apples, chopped figs, and thinly sliced red onion on top. Next, add those lovely cooled maple pecans and sprinkle the creamy goat cheese.

Visual appeal matters! Arrange your ingredients with flair—it makes every bite even tastier.

Step 4: Toss and Serve

Just before serving, drizzle about half of your homemade dressing over the top of the salad.

Gently toss everything to combine, ensuring every leaf is coated.

Serve immediately, garnished with extra pecans or a splash more dressing if you like.

Enjoy your vibrant, flavor-packed Apple Arugula Salad!

Tips for Success

Use a mandoline slicer for perfectly thin apple slices.
Choose ripe but firm figs for the best texture.
Toast pecans in small batches to ensure even roasting.
Add a splash of balsamic glaze on top for extra flair.
Make the dressing ahead of time for quicker prep later.

Equipment Needed

Oven: For toasting the pecans. A toaster oven can work in a pinch!
Baking Sheet: Line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. A glass dish can be an alternative.
Mixing Bowls: Use one for the dressing and another for the salad. Any medium-sized bowls will do!
Whisk: Essential for mixing the dressing. A fork can be a great substitute!
Salad Bowl: To combine everything. A large pasta bowl works too!

Variations of Apple Arugula Salad

Nuts: Try swapping pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different crunch and flavor.
Cheese: If goat cheese isn’t your thing, feta or blue cheese can add an exciting twist to the salad.
Fruits: Substitute apples with pears or add dried cranberries for a pop of color and sweetness.
Vegan Option: Omit the cheese and replace the honey with agave syrup for a fully plant-based option.
Extra Greens: Mix in baby spinach or kale alongside arugula for added nutrients and texture.
Grains: Add cooked quinoa or farro for a heartier salad that makes it a complete meal.
Protein: For extra energy, toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it more filling.

Serving Suggestions for Apple Arugula Salad

Pair the Apple Arugula Salad with grilled chicken for a satisfying meal.
Serve alongside crusty bread or a warm baguette to complement the textures.
Enjoy with a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, for a refreshing drink.
For presentation, place the salad in a beautiful serving bowl topped with extra figs and pecans.

FAQs about Apple Arugula Salad

I often find myself answering a few common questions about this Apple Arugula Salad. Let’s address them so you feel fully equipped to make this delightful dish!

Can I make the Apple Arugula Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dressing and toast the pecans in advance. Just combine everything right before serving to keep the arugula fresh and crisp.

What can I substitute for goat cheese?
If goat cheese isn’t your favorite, feta or blue cheese can be great alternatives. They’ll still provide that lovely creaminess that pairs well with the apples and arugula.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This salad is perfect for meal prep if you store the components separately. Keep the pecans and dressing in airtight containers to maintain freshness throughout the week.

Can I use different fruits in this salad?
Sure! Feel free to try pears, peaches, or even dried cranberries. Each choice brings its own unique flavor profile and can make your salad even more exciting.

How do I make the dressing taste even better?
Experiment with additional herbs and spices! Fresh herbs like basil or mint can add lovely notes, while adjusting the maple syrup can enhance the sweetness to your liking.

Final Thoughts

Creating this Apple Arugula Salad is more than just preparing a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors that brighten any table. The combination of crisp apples, tangy goat cheese, and sweet maple pecans makes each bite a delightful explosion of taste. I’ve found that sharing this salad with family or friends sparks joy and conversation, making it a memorable experience. It’s perfect for those busy days when you crave something healthy yet satisfying. So, roll up your sleeves, grab those ingredients, and let the joy of making and enjoying this salad lift your spirits!