Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad Recipe – Fresh Healthy Fall Salad Idea

Apple cranberry pecan salad served in a large bowl with crisp apple slices, dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, mixed greens, and a light vinaigrette dressing.
Crisp, sweet, and nutritious – apple cranberry pecan salad is the ultimate healthy fall salad idea! 🍎🥗✨
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Engaging Opening Hook

Crisp, refreshing salads have a way of bringing brightness to any meal, whether it’s a casual lunch or a festive holiday spread. Among the many variations, the apple cranberry pecan salad stands out as a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s light yet satisfying, colorful yet simple, and versatile enough to complement everything from roasted meats to cozy casseroles. Sweet apples, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans come together in harmony, creating a dish that feels both wholesome and indulgent. Drizzled with a tangy dressing, it’s the kind of salad that makes you look forward to eating greens. Perfect for fall gatherings, Thanksgiving feasts, or even everyday dinners, this salad captures the essence of comfort and freshness in one bowl. It’s proof that salads can be more than just a side—they can be the star of the table.

What is Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad?

Apple cranberry pecan salad is a vibrant dish that combines crisp apple slices, tart dried or fresh cranberries, and crunchy pecans with a bed of fresh greens. The result is a salad that’s both refreshing and satisfying, offering a mix of sweet, tart, and nutty flavors. A light vinaigrette or honey-mustard dressing ties everything together, enhancing the natural flavors without overpowering them. The beauty of this salad lies in its versatility—it can be served as a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a festive addition to holiday meals. Unlike heavier salads with creamy dressings, this one feels bright and balanced, making it a crowd-pleaser across seasons. Whether paired with grilled chicken for protein or enjoyed on its own, apple cranberry pecan salad is a dish that celebrates freshness, flavor, and simplicity.

The Flavor Profile

The magic of apple cranberry pecan salad lies in its interplay of flavors and textures. Apples bring crisp sweetness, offering a refreshing bite that anchors the salad. Cranberries add tartness, balancing the sweetness with a tangy edge. Pecans contribute a nutty crunch, adding depth and richness that elevates the dish. Together, these ingredients create a salad that’s layered and dynamic. The dressing—often a vinaigrette with hints of honey, mustard, or citrus—ties everything together, adding brightness and cohesion. Each bite delivers contrast: crisp apples against chewy cranberries, crunchy pecans against tender greens. It’s a salad that feels indulgent yet light, making it suitable for everyday meals and special occasions alike.

Seasonal & Cultural Significance

Apple cranberry pecan salad is especially popular in autumn, when apples are at their peak and cranberries begin to appear in markets. Apples have long been a staple in fall salads, symbolizing harvest and abundance. Cranberries, meanwhile, are closely tied to holiday traditions, particularly Thanksgiving, where they often appear in sauces and side dishes. Incorporating them into a salad adds a festive touch. Pecans bring in a Southern influence, as they are widely used in American cuisine, especially in desserts like pecan pie. Together, these ingredients reflect seasonal bounty and cultural traditions, making the salad both nostalgic and modern. It’s a dish that bridges everyday dining with holiday celebrations, embodying the warmth and freshness of the season.

Apple cranberry pecan salad served in a large bowl with crisp apple slices, dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, mixed greens, and a light vinaigrette dressing.

Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad Recipe – Fresh Healthy Fall Salad Idea

This apple cranberry pecan salad recipe is a crisp and nutritious dish made with fresh apples, tart cranberries, crunchy pecans, and mixed greens tossed in a light vinaigrette. Perfect for fall meals, holiday gatherings, or anytime you want a refreshing and healthy salad.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American, Seasonal
Servings 4
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • Cutting board and knife
  • Salad spinner or colander
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small whisk for dressing

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
  • 2 crisp apples (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), thinly sliced
  • ½ cup dried cranberries (or fresh cranberries, halved)
  • ½ cup pecans, lightly toasted
  • ¼ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)

Dressing:

  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Prep Greens: Wash and dry greens thoroughly. Place in a large mixing bowl.
  • Slice Apples: Thinly slice apples and toss lightly with lemon juice to prevent browning.
  • Toast Pecans: Heat pecans in a dry skillet for 3–5 minutes until fragrant.
  • Mix Salad: Add apples, cranberries, and pecans to the greens.
  • Make Dressing: Whisk olive oil, vinegar, honey, mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
  • Toss & Serve: Drizzle dressing over salad just before serving. Garnish with cheese if desired.

Notes

  • Apple Choice: Honeycrisp for sweetness, Granny Smith for tartness.
  • Cranberry Swap: Use fresh cranberries for sharper flavor.
  • Make Ahead: Prep ingredients separately; assemble just before serving.
  • Extra Flavor: Add goat cheese or grilled chicken for protein.
  • Holiday Touch: Garnish with pomegranate seeds for festive color.
Keyword Apple cranberry pecan salad, fall salad, healthy side dish, holiday salad