Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad – A Perfect Fall & Holiday Favorite

Nothing says fall quite like a crisp, colorful Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad. With its combination of sweet apples, tangy cranberries, crunchy candied pecans, and smoky bacon, this dish offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Tossed in a zesty apple cider vinaigrette, it’s a refreshing yet hearty option for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or holiday feasts. This salad not only looks beautiful on the table but also delivers layers of taste in every bite.

Fresh, Flavorful, and Festive

This Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad is more than just a leafy side—it’s a showstopper. Massaged kale brings a tender yet robust base, while apples add natural sweetness, and dried cranberries provide a chewy, tart contrast. Candied pecans bring addictive crunch, and bacon offers savory depth. The apple cider vinegar dressing ties it all together with a sweet-tangy kick, making it perfect for seasonal gatherings or as a make-ahead weekday meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Kale: The sturdy green that softens beautifully when massaged, holding up well to the dressing.
• Apple: Adds crisp sweetness and seasonal freshness.
• Celery: Brings a clean, refreshing crunch.
• Dried Cranberries: Offers chewy, tangy sweetness that complements the pecans.
• Feta Cheese: Creamy, salty bites that balance the fruitiness.
• Bacon: Smoky, savory richness that pairs perfectly with sweet elements.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Provides a tangy base for the dressing.
• Shallot: Adds a mild, aromatic sharpness to the vinaigrette.
• Dijon Mustard: Gives body and a subtle heat to the dressing.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Smooth, fruity richness to emulsify the vinaigrette.
• Honey: Natural sweetness that balances acidity.
• Salt & Pepper: Enhances and rounds out flavors.

For the Candied Pecans
• Pecan Halves: Crunchy, buttery foundation for the sweet coating.
• Egg White: Helps the sugar and spices cling to the nuts.
• Sugar: Sweet caramelized coating for the pecans.
• Kosher Salt: Balances the sweetness.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: Warm, aromatic flavor boost.
• Cayenne Pepper: Optional heat for a subtle kick.

Smart Ingredient Swaps
• Greens: Substitute kale with baby spinach, arugula, or Swiss chard for a milder flavor.
• Cheese: Swap feta for goat cheese, ricotta, or halloumi for a different creamy profile.
• Nuts: Use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans if preferred.
• Fruit: Replace cranberries with dried cherries or pomegranate seeds for a fresh twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, crisp diced bacon over medium-high heat, about 6–8 minutes. Drain on a paper towel.
2. Prepare the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk apple cider vinegar, diced shallot, and Dijon mustard. Let stand 5 minutes to mellow. Whisk in olive oil and honey, seasoning with salt and pepper.
3. Massage the Kale: Add shredded kale to the dressing, gently massaging for 1 minute to tenderize the leaves.
4. Assemble the Salad: Top kale with crispy bacon, diced apple, sliced celery, cranberries, crumbled feta, and candied pecans. Toss lightly to combine.
5. Make the Candied Pecans: Preheat oven to 300°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment. In a bowl, whisk egg white until frothy, then mix in sugar, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and cayenne. Stir in pecans until coated. Spread evenly on the baking sheet and bake 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway. Cool completely before adding to the salad.

Tips for the Best Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad

• Prep Ahead: Make dressing up to a week ahead and store in the fridge.
• Size Matters: Chop all ingredients uniformly for balanced bites.
• Kale Tenderizing: Don’t skip massaging the kale—it transforms texture and flavor.
• Storage: Keep candied pecans separate until serving to maintain crunch.

Serving Ideas & Variations

• Holiday Platter: Serve alongside roasted turkey, baked ham, or butternut squash soup.
• Grain Bowl Base: Add quinoa, farro, or couscous for a more filling meal.
• Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes to the candied pecans for extra heat.
• Make-Ahead Option: Assemble without dressing and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours; dress just before serving.

This Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad brings a delightful mix of textures and flavors that make it a seasonal favorite. Whether for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a casual fall dinner, it’s a salad that earns a permanent spot in your recipe collection.

Conclusion

The Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad is more than a seasonal side—it’s a flavorful balance of sweet, savory, tangy, and crunchy elements that satisfies both the palate and the eye. With its vibrant colors, nutrient-rich ingredients, and versatile nature, it’s a dish you’ll find yourself making again and again. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch, a festive dinner side, or a make-ahead option for gatherings, this salad showcases how fresh, simple components can create something extraordinary.

FAQ – Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad

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