Harvest Salad with Apples, Pecans & Maple Dressing

There’s something about fall that makes us crave cozy flavors, crisp textures, and a little touch of sweetness in every bite. Enter the Harvest Salad with Apples, Pecans & Maple Dressing, a bowl of pure seasonal joy that manages to be fresh, healthy, and just indulgent enough. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a side dish for Thanksgiving, or just an excuse to use those gorgeous apples from the farmer’s market, this salad checks every box.

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Why You’ll Love This Harvest Salad

This isn’t just another leafy salad, it’s a flavor-packed, texture-rich, feel-good meal. Here’s why it works so well:

• Sweet + Savory Balance: Crisp apples and maple dressing bring natural sweetness, while pecans add nutty richness.
• Crunch Factor: Between apples, greens, and pecans, every bite is satisfying.
• Nutrient Boost: Packed with fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats, your body will thank you.
• Versatile: Serve it as a light lunch, a side for roast chicken, or a festive holiday dish.

Ingredients

Here’s the lineup for your harvest-inspired dish:

• Salad Base
  • 6 cups of mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or a spring mix all work well)
  • 2 crisp apples (Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji are great picks)
  • ½ cup pecans (toasted for extra flavor)
  • ½ cup dried cranberries (optional, for extra sweetness and color)
  • ½ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional but highly recommended)
• Maple Dressing
  • ⅓ cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the greens
   Rinse your salad greens and pat them dry. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
2. Slice the apples
   Core and thinly slice your apples. Leave the skins on for color and extra nutrients.
3. Toast the pecans (optional but worth it!)
   Heat a skillet over medium heat, toss in the pecans, and toast for 3–4 minutes until fragrant. Let cool slightly.
4. Mix the dressing
   In a small jar or bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
5. Assemble the salad
   Add the apple slices, pecans, and dried cranberries to the greens. Sprinkle cheese over the top.
6. Dress & serve
   Pour the maple dressing just before serving and toss gently so everything gets coated.

Ingredient Swaps & Alternatives

This salad is super flexible, here’s how you can make it your own:

• No Pecans? Swap in walnuts, almonds, or pumpkin seeds.
• Apple Options: Pears are a fantastic substitute if that’s what you have on hand.
• Dairy-Free: Skip the cheese or try a vegan cheese alternative.
• Dressing Twist: If you don’t have maple syrup, honey works beautifully.
• Greens: Can use cucumber instead.

What to Serve with Harvest Salad

This salad is versatile enough to be:

• A Main Meal: Add grilled chicken, salmon, or chickpeas for protein.
• A Holiday Side: It pairs perfectly with roast turkey, glazed ham, or any festive spread.
• A Light Lunch: Serve with a warm slice of sourdough bread or a cup of butternut squash soup.

Tips for the Best Harvest Salad

• Dress Right Before Serving: Keeps the greens crisp and fresh.
• Toast the Nuts: It takes 5 minutes but makes a huge flavor difference.
• Mix Textures: Don’t skip the cheese, it adds creamy balance to the crunch.

Why This Salad Is Perfect for Fall (and Beyond)

Fall is the season of abundance, and this salad captures it beautifully. The crisp apples represent harvest time, the pecans bring coziness, and the maple dressing ties everything together with that warm, earthy sweetness. But honestly? This salad is so good, you’ll want it year-round.

It’s easy, customizable, and downright delicious. Whether you’re trying to eat lighter, impress guests, or just enjoy a colorful bowl of goodness, this Harvest Salad with Apples, Pecans & Maple Dressing deserves a spot in your rotation.