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Apple Pecan & Bacon Salad with Maple Vinaigrette

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A fresh, flavorful salad featuring crisp apples, crunchy pecans, smoky bacon, and a tangy maple vinaigrette, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 33 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

Salad Base
  • 4 cups baby spinach Can substitute with spring mix or chopped kale
  • 2 medium apples Use Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, or Granny Smith
  • 1/2 cup toasted pecans Toast in a dry skillet for flavor enhancement
  • 6 slices bacon Cook bacon until crispy
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta Optional for added creaminess
Maple Vinaigrette
  • 1/4 cup olive oil Extra virgin recommended
  • 2 tablespoons real maple syrup For sweetness
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Helps emulsify the dressing
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar Adds tang
  • to taste salt and pepper Adjust according to preference

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the bacon in the oven at 400°F for 15-18 minutes until crispy. Drain on paper towels and chop.
  2. Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, until fragrant.
  3. Wash and dry the salad greens and place them in a large bowl.
  4. Core and slice the apples just before serving to maintain freshness.
Assembly
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  2. Toss the salad greens with the vinaigrette lightly.
  3. Add the apples, bacon, and toasted pecans to the bowl and gently toss to combine.
  4. Top with crumbled feta if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 21gProtein: 8gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 6gSodium: 450mgFiber: 4gSugar: 7g

Notes

For best texture, store salad components separately. Dress salad right before serving. To keep apples from browning, toss with lemon juice if preparing in advance.
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