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Apple Cranberry Pecan Spinach Salad Maple Cider Vinaigrette

Apple Cranberry Pecan Spinach Salad Maple Cider Vinaigrette - Recipes From Chef

Hello, fellow food lovers! Today, I’m excited to take you on a flavorful journey through my beloved Apple Cranberry Pecan Spinach Salad with Maple Cider Vinaigrette. Imagine a blend of sweet apples, crunchy pecans, and tangy cranberries all nestled into a bed of fresh spinach. It’s a dish that not only looks stunning on your table but also ticks the health box effortlessly.
I've enjoyed this salad at various gatherings, and let me tell you, it has a way of bringing people together. Whether it’s a summer BBQ or a cozy winter dinner, this salad stands by you throughout the seasons.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad:
  • 1 crisp, sweet apple like Honeycrisp or Fuji, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons roasted sunflower seeds for a crunchy twist
  • 10 ounces tender baby spinach leaves
  • 1/2 small red onion thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds for extra pop
  • 6 ounces creamy crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries and toasted pecans
For the Maple Cider Vinaigrette:
  • 1 small garlic clove finely minced
  • 2 tablespoons tangy apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon smooth Dijon mustard

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Base
  1. Start by washing and drying the spinach leaves thoroughly. Baby spinach is delicate; a salad spinner works wonders here. Place the crispy leaves in a large bowl.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables and Fruits
  1. Now, it’s time to bring in the stars of the show. Slice the apple thinly, ensuring each piece is beautiful and bite-sized. Toss them into the bowl. Next up, add the thinly sliced red onion. For that sweet burst, sprinkle in the pomegranate seeds and dried cranberries.
Step 3: Include the Nuts and Cheese
  1. Top the salad with toasted pecans and roasted sunflower seeds for a dose of crunch. Finally, add dollops of creamy feta cheese. The saltiness of the feta will play beautifully against the sweet elements.
Step 4: Whisk Together the Vinaigrette
  1. In a small bowl, combine the garlic, cider vinegar, olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk until everything is blended beautifully. This dressing is the glue that binds your salad together!
Step 5: Dress and Serve
  1. When you’re ready to serve, pour the vinaigrette over the salad. Gently toss everything together until the dressing clings to each ingredient. Serve immediately for the freshest experience!

Notes

  • Use fresh ingredients: The fresher your spinach and apples, the more vibrant your salad will be.
  • Toast your nuts: Toasting pecans enhances their flavor. Just a few minutes in a dry skillet over medium heat can elevate the taste.
  • Dressing on the side: If you're preparing this ahead, consider serving the dressing on the side. This keeps the salad fresh without the risk of wilting.
  • Experiment with different cheeses: Feel free to substitute feta with goat cheese or even blue cheese for an added lyrical twist.
  • Add protein: If you're looking for a heartier meal, grilled chicken or chickpeas can make this salad more filling.