What type of apples work best in an Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad?

Crisp and slightly sweet apple varieties like Gala, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best in an Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad. These apples hold their texture well without becoming mushy and add a refreshing sweetness that balances the tartness of the cranberries and the crunch of the pecans.

Can I use different nuts instead of pecans in this salad?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with other nuts such as walnuts, almonds, or cashews. Each brings a unique texture and flavor—walnuts are earthy, almonds add a mild crunch, and cashews introduce creaminess. Just toast the nuts lightly before adding them to enhance their flavor.

How should I store leftover Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad?

To keep the salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate and toss the salad just before serving to prevent the greens and apples from wilting or browning.

Is it possible to prepare the candied pecans ahead of time?

Absolutely. Candied pecans can be made several days in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to three weeks or freeze for up to three months, allowing you to have them ready whenever you need.

What are some easy homemade dressing options for this salad?

A simple vinaigrette made with apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper complements the Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad well. You can also try creamy dressings like a yogurt-based poppy seed dressing for a sweeter touch. Both dressings blend flavors nicely without overpowering the fresh ingredients.

Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad Recipe with Nutty Fresh Taste

Name: Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad
Prep time: 50 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 slices bacon diced – Adds a smoky, crispy element that provides protein and enhances the savory notes for a satisfying crunch.; ¼ cup apple cider vinegar – Forms the base of the vinaigrette, offering a tangy acidity that balances the sweetness and helps tenderize the greens.; 1 medium shallot diced – Brings a mild onion flavor that adds depth to the dressing without overpowering other ingredients.; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – Acts as an emulsifier in the dressing, giving it a sharp, tangy kick that ties the flavors together.; ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil – Provides a smooth, rich base for the vinaigrette, contributing healthy fats and a subtle earthy taste.; 1 tablespoon honey – Sweetens the dressing naturally, balancing the tartness and making the salad more appealing to those with a sweet tooth.; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste – Seasons the dish perfectly, enhancing all flavors while allowing for personalized adjustments.; 1 large bunch kale stems removed and leaves shredded – Serves as the hearty green base, packed with nutrients for a healthy, fibrous component.; 1 medium apple diced (Gala or Honeycrisp recommended) – Adds crisp sweetness and freshness, providing vitamins and a juicy texture that contrasts with other elements.; ½ cup sliced celery – Contributes a refreshing crunch and subtle earthiness, while also adding hydration and low-calorie bulk.; ½ cup dried sweetened cranberries – Infuses bursts of tart sweetness, offering antioxidants and a chewy contrast to the salad’s crispiness.; ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (can substitute with halloumi, ricotta, goat cheese, or cotija cheese) – Brings a creamy, salty tang that can be swapped for dairy-free options to suit various diets.; 1 large egg white – Helps coat the pecans evenly, creating a glossy finish that makes them irresistibly crunchy.; ⅓ cup sugar – Sweetens the pecans, turning them into a caramelized treat that adds a decadent layer to the nutty salad.; ¾ teaspoon kosher salt – Seasons the pecans for balanced flavor, ensuring they complement the rest of the dish without being overly sweet.; ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice – Infuses warm, spiced notes that evoke fall flavors, enhancing the overall seasonal appeal.; ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) – Adds a subtle heat if desired, giving the pecans a gentle kick for an extra flavor dimension.; 2 cups pecan halves – Provides a rich, nutty crunch as the star element, offering healthy fats and making the salad feel indulgent.

Description

🍎 Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad combines fresh, crisp apples and tart cranberries with nutty, sweet candied pecans for a delightful flavor mix.
🥗 This salad offers a nutritious combination of textures and tastes, making it a refreshing and satisfying meal or side dish.

Ingredients

Scale

3 slices bacon diced – Adds a smoky, crispy element that provides protein and enhances the savory notes for a satisfying crunch.

¼ cup apple cider vinegar – Forms the base of the vinaigrette, offering a tangy acidity that balances the sweetness and helps tenderize the greens.

1 medium shallot diced – Brings a mild onion flavor that adds depth to the dressing without overpowering other ingredients.

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – Acts as an emulsifier in the dressing, giving it a sharp, tangy kick that ties the flavors together.

⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil – Provides a smooth, rich base for the vinaigrette, contributing healthy fats and a subtle earthy taste.

1 tablespoon honey – Sweetens the dressing naturally, balancing the tartness and making the salad more appealing to those with a sweet tooth.

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste – Seasons the dish perfectly, enhancing all flavors while allowing for personalized adjustments.

1 large bunch kale stems removed and leaves shredded – Serves as the hearty green base, packed with nutrients for a healthy, fibrous component.

1 medium apple diced (Gala or Honeycrisp recommended) – Adds crisp sweetness and freshness, providing vitamins and a juicy texture that contrasts with other elements.

½ cup sliced celery – Contributes a refreshing crunch and subtle earthiness, while also adding hydration and low-calorie bulk.

½ cup dried sweetened cranberries – Infuses bursts of tart sweetness, offering antioxidants and a chewy contrast to the salad’s crispiness.

½ cup crumbled feta cheese (can substitute with halloumi, ricotta, goat cheese, or cotija cheese) – Brings a creamy, salty tang that can be swapped for dairy-free options to suit various diets.

1 large egg white – Helps coat the pecans evenly, creating a glossy finish that makes them irresistibly crunchy.

⅓ cup sugar – Sweetens the pecans, turning them into a caramelized treat that adds a decadent layer to the nutty salad.

¾ teaspoon kosher salt – Seasons the pecans for balanced flavor, ensuring they complement the rest of the dish without being overly sweet.

½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice – Infuses warm, spiced notes that evoke fall flavors, enhancing the overall seasonal appeal.

⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) – Adds a subtle heat if desired, giving the pecans a gentle kick for an extra flavor dimension.

2 cups pecan halves – Provides a rich, nutty crunch as the star element, offering healthy fats and making the salad feel indulgent.

Instructions

1-First Step: Prepare the Candied Pecans Begin by preheating your oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Whisk 1 large egg white until it’s frothy, which takes about 1-2 minutes, then stir in ⅓ cup sugar, ¾ teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, and ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper if you want a bit of spice. Add 2 cups pecan halves and mix until they’re fully coated, then spread them evenly on the baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking; let them cool completely before using. For a fun twist, if you’re new to nutty salads, check out another simple salad recipe on our site for more ideas on incorporating homemade toppings.

2-Second Step: Cook the Bacon Next, dice 3 slices of bacon and cook them in a skillet over medium-high heat until they’re brown and crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Once done, drain the bacon on paper towels and set it aside to cool. This step adds that irresistible smoky flavor to your cranberry apple salad, and it’s a great way to build layers of taste without much effort. If you’re adapting for dietary needs, swap bacon for plant-based options to keep it vegetarian-friendly.

3-Third Step: Make the Vinaigrette In a large bowl, whisk together ¼ cup apple cider vinegar, 1 diced medium shallot, and 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; let this mixture sit for 5 minutes to mellow the flavors. Then, whisk in ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil and 1 tablespoon honey until well combined, and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This dressing is the heart of the apple pecan salad, providing a tangy contrast that ties everything together nicely.

4-Fourth Step: Prep and Massage the Kale Take 1 large bunch of kale, remove the stems, and shred the leaves. Add the shredded kale to the bowl with the vinaigrette and massage it for about 1 minute to soften the leaves and make them more palatable. This technique helps reduce bitterness and ensures the greens absorb the dressing, making your fresh pecan salad more enjoyable, especially for those new to kale-based dishes.

5-Fifth Step: Assemble the Salad Now, mix in the cooked bacon, 1 diced medium apple, ½ cup sliced celery, ½ cup dried sweetened cranberries, ½ cup crumbled feta cheese, and the cooled candied pecans into the bowl with the kale. Toss everything gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed. For variations, you could add grilled chicken if you’re looking for a heartier meal, which aligns with preferences for busy parents or working professionals.

6-Sixth Step: Serve and Enjoy Finalize by giving the salad a quick taste test and adjusting seasonings if needed, then serve it immediately for the best crunch. The total time is around 50 minutes, with 20 minutes prep and 30 minutes cooking, making it an easy apple cranberry pecan salad recipe for any day. Remember, if you’re storing leftovers, keep them fresh by following the tips we’ll cover later to maintain that vibrant texture and flavor.

Notes

🥓 Cook bacon until crispy for best texture in salad.
🌰 Stir candied pecans during baking to ensure even caramelization.
🥗 Massage kale well to soften leaves and improve flavor absorption.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Baking and Mixing
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving

Keywords: apple cranberry salad,candied pecans salad,nutty fresh salad,kale cranberry salad