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–+ servings

Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad with Cider Vinaigrette

This refreshing salad features crisp apples, tangy cranberries, creamy cheese, candied pecans, and a homemade cider vinaigrette for a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 11 ounce package spring mix
  • 3 EverCrisp apples, cored and thinly sliced
  • 4-6 ounce blue or gorgonzola cheese crumbles
  • 2/3 cup dried cranberries
For the Candied Pecans
  • 2 teaspoon butter
  • 1/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1 cup pecan halves
  • 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
For the Cider Vinaigrette
  • 2/3 cup olive oil
  • 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • 3 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 3 tablespoon pineapple juice
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Equipment

  • Large salad bowl
  • Skillet
  • Small jar or bowl
  • Whisk
  • Knife
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

To Make the Candied Pecans
  1. Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the brown sugar, salt, water, and cinnamon.
  3. Stir until the sugar dissolves and bubbles slightly.
  4. Add pecan halves and toss to coat evenly.
  5. Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring constantly.
  6. Transfer to parchment paper and cool completely.
To Make the Cider Vinaigrette
  1. Combine all vinaigrette ingredients in a jar or bowl.
  2. Shake or whisk until emulsified.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Assemble the Salad
  1. In a large bowl, layer spring mix.
  2. Top with apples, cheese crumbles, and cranberries.
  3. Sprinkle the cooled candied pecans.
  4. Drizzle with cider vinaigrette just before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 26gProtein: 4gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 230mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 3gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 450IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This salad is an ideal mix of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors. Store undressed salad in an airtight container for up to two days. Nutrition information is estimated based on common ingredients and serving sizes and may vary.

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