Spinach Apple Pecan Salad

This apple spinach salad recipe is so easy to make and is a great healthy side dish for weeknight dinners or the holidays. Smooth cheddar cheese gives this pecan salad some extra protein which makes it perfect for whenever you need something filling!

The sweet maple vinaigrette is the perfect dressing for pecans and apples. Whenever you are craving something sweet and savory, you will the flavors from this cranberry salad!

Pair this spinach salad recipe with any main course such as Ground Turkey Meatloaf, Chicken Parmesan Pasta, and even this vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie.

Recipe Summary

• Quick: This salad is ready in minutes! It doesn’t take long to assemble this easy apple pecan salad recipe.
• Healthy: Fresh spinach leaves are loaded with iron and fiber and are paired with healthy pecans and fresh apples.
• Vegetarian: Enjoy this salad whenever you are looking to eat a little more plant-based and want to keep things meat-free.
• Perfect Side Dish: Serve this salad alongside soups, casseroles, pasta recipes, proteins, etc.
• Serve as a Meal: You can even enjoy this salad all by itself since it is made with wholesome ingredients and protein.

Ingredients you will need

Below is simple a list of ingredients that we used to make this apple and spinach salad. The full measurements are listed further down below.

for the spinach salad Dressing

• Olive Oil– I like to use olive oil because it is rich in flavor especially if you use a high-quality brand.
• Lemon– Fresh lemon juice is squeezed into the vinaigrette to make sure it is bright and flavorful. The zest is also used for an extra hint of citrus.
• Apple Cider Vinegar– or if you do not have this use balsamic vinegar.
• Mustard– Dijon mustard is tangy and sharp with a mild spice.
• Maple Syrup– balances out the acidity. You may use honey or agave.
• Salt and Pepper.

for the Salad

• Spinach– Use organic spinach if you can. If you don’t like spinach, use any other greens.
• Apples– Any kind of fresh apples will work for this recipe. Just make sure you have two. Some apple options include Gala, Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, etc.
• Cheddar Cheese– You can use either white or yellow cheddar cheese for this recipe. I like to use both! Cut your blocks of cheese into small cubes to mix throughout the salad.
• Pecans– Roasted pecans are nutty and sweet and add the perfect amount of crunch to this salad.
• Cranberries– Dried cranberries provide extra sweet flavors and are so pleasant with the pecans!

How to make apple spinach pecan salad

• Make the dressing: First, in a small bowl, whisk the olive oil, lemon juice and zest, apple cider vinegar, dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt, and pepper together until fully emulsified and blended. Set the dressing aside.
• Assemble the salad: Next, in a large bowl, combine the fresh spinach, cubes apples with lemon juice, cheddar cubes, pecans, and dried cranberries.
• Toss with dressing: Finally, drizzle the salad with the vinaigrette and toss the ingredients to combine everything. Serve immediately or place in the refrigerator to chill.

Recipe notes and tips

• Use any kind of fresh greens instead of spinach such as arugula, spring mix, romaine, etc.
• Make this a vegan salad by omitting the cheese.
• Add more protein: consider adding some grilled chicken breast, salmon, and shrimp to this spinach salad.
• Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Prepare the dressing ahead of time and store it in a sealed jar in the refrigerator until ready to use.
• Use pears instead of apples.
• Instead of cheddar cheese, crumble the salad with goat, feta, or blue cheese.
• Use agave nectar or honey instead of maple syrup.

More Salad Recipes You Will Love

• Chickpea and Avocado Salad
• Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad
• Mexican Street Corn Salad
• Tomato Mozzarella Salad
• Watermelon Feta Salad

What to serve with apple pecan salad

• Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Breast
• Baked Honey Lemon Chicken and Potatoes
• Grilled Chicken Breast with Avocado Salsa
• Grilled Lemon Chicken Skewers
• Easy Chimichurri Chicken