Description
The “Apple and Fig Arugula Delight” is a vibrant, nutritious salad that brilliantly melds the crispness of fresh apples with the luscious sweetness of figs. This dish is beautifully balanced with the creamy texture of goat cheese and the delightful crunch of homemade maple pecans, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking for a wholesome yet tasty meal. Whether you’re seeking a light lunch option or a sophisticated side dish, this salad promises freshness in every bite and is perfect for various dining occasions.
Ingredients
- 3 apples, sliced very thin
- 5 oz arugula
- 1/4 cup red onion, sliced thin
- 1/2 cup figs, chopped
- 1/2 cup goat cheese crumbles
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (plus additional for dressing)
- Pinch of sea salt
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1/4-1/2 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Prepare the Maple Pecans
Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). In a bowl, toss the pecan halves with 2 tablespoons of maple syrup and a pinch of sea salt. Spread the pecans evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for about 5-7 minutes or until they are toasted and slightly darkened. Once done, remove from the oven and allow to cool.
2. Mix the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, 2 teaspoons maple syrup, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, black pepper, and sea salt. Adjust the flavor according to your preference.
3. Assemble the Salad
In a large salad bowl, lay down a bed of arugula. Add the thinly sliced apples, chopped figs, and crumbles of goat cheese on top. Just before serving, drizzle about half of the prepared dressing over the salad (or more, based on your taste) and gently toss to mix.
Servings & Preparation Time
This recipe serves 4-6 people as a side dish or 2-3 people as a light main dish. The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes, making it a swift and simple choice for meal preparation.
Tips for Storage & Reheating
- Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- It is best to store the dressing separately and add just before serving to maintain the freshness and texture of the greens.
- If the pecans lose their crunch, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 2-3 minutes.
Conclusion
The Apple and Fig Arugula Delight is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a visually appealing dish that can brighten up your dining table. With its simple yet sophisticated combination of ingredients, it can appeal to a wide range of palates. Crafting this salad at home invites an experience of delightful flavors and textures, ensuring a satisfying and healthful culinary journey.
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Apple and Fig Arugula Delight
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
Description
The “Apple and Fig Arugula Delight” is a vibrant, nutritious salad that brilliantly melds the crispness of fresh apples with the luscious sweetness of figs. This dish is beautifully balanced with the creamy texture of goat cheese and the delightful crunch of homemade maple pecans, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking for a wholesome yet tasty meal. Whether you’re seeking a light lunch option or a sophisticated side dish, this salad promises freshness in every bite and is perfect for various dining occasions.
Ingredients
- 3 apples, sliced very thin
- 5 oz arugula
- 1/4 cup red onion, sliced thin
- 1/2 cup figs, chopped
- 1/2 cup goat cheese crumbles
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (plus additional for dressing)
- Pinch of sea salt
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1/4–1/2 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Maple Pecans Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). In a bowl, toss the pecan halves with 2 tablespoons of maple syrup and a pinch of sea salt. Spread the pecans evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for about 5-7 minutes or until they are toasted and slightly darkened. Once done, remove from the oven and allow to cool.
- Mix the Dressing In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, 2 teaspoons maple syrup, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, black pepper, and sea salt. Adjust the flavor according to your preference.
- Assemble the Salad In a large salad bowl, lay down a bed of arugula. Add the thinly sliced apples, chopped figs, and crumbles of goat cheese on top. Just before serving, drizzle about half of the prepared dressing over the salad (or more, based on your taste) and gently toss to mix.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes