There’s something about the crunch of toasted pecans paired with the tart burst of dried cranberries that makes this salad feel like an autumn celebration in every bite. I first tossed together this Cranberry Pecan Salad on a whim, craving something fresh yet satisfying that didn’t feel like a typical leafy bowl. The result? A vibrant mix of textures and flavors that instantly became a crowd favorite at family dinners and casual get-togethers alike. What I love most is how effortlessly it comes together—perfect for those moments when you want to impress without the stress. Whether you’re looking for a bright side dish or a wholesome lunch option, this salad hits the sweet spot between cozy and crisp, familiar yet delightfully unexpected.
Why choose Cranberry Pecan Salad today?
Freshness meets crunch: Toasted pecans add a satisfying texture that contrasts beautifully with crisp greens. Burst of flavor: Dried cranberries provide a tangy sweetness that brightens every bite. Effortless prep: Ready in minutes, it’s perfect when time is tight but taste matters. Versatile appeal: Works great as a light lunch or a standout side dish. Crowd-pleaser: Loved by home cooks and chefs alike for its balance of cozy and crisp.
Cranberry Pecan Salad Ingredients
For the Salad Base
• Fresh mixed greens – Choose a crunchy mix like romaine and kale for a vibrant texture contrast.
• Toasted pecans – Toast them lightly to unlock their full nutty aroma and add satisfying crunch.
• Dried cranberries – Pick plump, chewy cranberries for a juicy, tart burst every bite.
• Crisp apple slices – Use a tart apple variety to complement the sweetness and add freshness.
For the Dressing
• Olive oil – A smooth, fruity base that balances the salad’s sweet and tangy notes.
• Apple cider vinegar – Adds a gentle tang that lifts the flavors without overpowering.
• Honey – Just a touch to round out acidity with natural sweetness—key in this Cranberry Pecan Salad.
• Dijon mustard – Gives a subtle kick and helps emulsify the dressing perfectly.
• Salt and pepper – Season to taste and highlight all the fresh ingredient flavors.
How to Make Cranberry Pecan Salad
- Toast Pecans: Preheat oven to 350°F and spread pecans on a baking sheet. Bake for 5–7 minutes until golden brown and fragrant.
- Prep Salad Base: Wash mixed greens in cold water, spin dry, then core and thinly slice the apple for a crisp, fresh crunch.
For the Dressing: - Mix Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Assemble Salad: Combine greens, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and apple slices. Drizzle dressing and toss gently to coat evenly.
Optional: Sprinkle feta cheese for creamy tang.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cranberry Pecan Salad?
Brighten your meal with delightful sides that complement every crunchy, tangy bite of this vibrant salad.
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Grilled Chicken Breast: Juicy and seasoned to perfection, it adds a hearty touch to your light salad without overwhelming its fresh flavors.
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Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty, fluffy grain brings a subtle texture that pairs beautifully with the salad’s crunch, enhancing its wholesome appeal.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crispy exterior and slightly sweet finish create a lovely contrast, delivering rich depth next to the bright cranberries.
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Creamy Goat Cheese: Crumbled on top, it adds a luscious, tangy note that elevates every forkful of the salad with its creamy richness.
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Savory Crostini: Crispy bread topped with herbed cheese provides an earthy crunch that engages the palate alongside the sweet and tart elements.
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Sparkling Water with Lime: A refreshing drink option that cleanses the palate, allowing the salad’s vibrant flavors to shine with every sip.
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Pumpkin Soup: Its creamy, savory warmth sets a comforting tone, making for a cozy yet sophisticated meal perfect for any occasion.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light and airy mousse rounds off the meal with a sweet indulgence that keeps the spirit of autumn alive.
Make Ahead Options
These Cranberry Pecan Salad ingredients are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time during your busy week! You can wash and dry the mixed greens and slice the apples up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers to keep them fresh and crispy. Additionally, toast the pecans and make the dressing ahead of time—both can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to add the apples and dress the salad right before serving to prevent any browning and sogginess. When it’s time to enjoy your salad, simply combine all the components, toss with the dressing, and indulge in a vibrant, delicious meal with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Pecan Salad
Fridge: Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to maintain the crispness of the greens.
Freezer: It’s best not to freeze this salad, as the texture of mixed greens and apples will suffer when thawed. Enjoy it fresh!
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat salad, but you can toast more pecans if desired to enhance the flavor before serving.
Serving Suggestions: Always toss with dressing just before serving to keep the salad bright and fresh, highlighting those delightful flavors in your Cranberry Pecan Salad.
Cranberry Pecan Salad Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this delightful salad your own with these fun twists and substitutions!
- Nut-Free: Swap toasted pecans for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds to keep it crunchy without the nuts.
- Sweetness Boost: Add diced fresh pears for an extra layer of juicy sweetness and an autumnal vibe.
- Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese or feta on top for a creamy texture that pairs beautifully.
- Herb-Infused Dressing: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or mint into the dressing for an aromatic lift.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing for a surprising, subtle heat that elevates the flavors.
- Vegan Option: Use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure your mustard is vegan-friendly for a plant-based delight.
- Crunchy Topping: Toss in some crispy chickpeas or toasted quinoa for an additional crunch that contrasts nicely with the salad’s softness.
- Fruit Variety: Mix in tart pomegranate seeds or diced oranges for bursts of flavor and color that brighten the dish.
There’s truly no limit to how you can transform this cheerful Cranberry Pecan Salad!
Expert Tips for Cranberry Pecan Salad
- Toast Pecans Perfectly: Keep a close eye while toasting pecans; they can quickly go from golden to burnt, which affects the salad’s flavor.
- Use Fresh Greens: Always wash and dry your mixed greens thoroughly to avoid a soggy salad and keep every bite crisp and refreshing.
- Balance Dressing Flavors: Whisk the dressing well to emulsify; adjust honey or vinegar slightly to find your perfect sweet-tart balance in this Cranberry Pecan Salad.
- Add Texture Variety: Incorporate crisp apple slices last to keep their crunch intact and elevate your salad with fresh contrast.
- Serve Immediately: Toss and serve right away to prevent the greens from wilting and ensure every ingredient shines bright and flavorful.
Cranberry Pecan Salad Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to pick the perfect pecans for this salad?
Look for pecans that are firm, plump, and have a rich brown color without dark spots or cracks. Freshness is key for that nutty crunch, so avoid any that smell musty or stale.
How long can I keep Cranberry Pecan Salad fresh in the fridge?
I recommend storing the salad without dressing in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The dressing can be kept separately for 4 to 5 days, so toss just before serving to maintain that fresh, crisp texture.
Can I freeze Cranberry Pecan Salad if I have leftovers?
Freezing this salad isn’t a great idea because the mixed greens and apples tend to become limp and watery when thawed. If you want to prep ahead, freeze toasted pecans separately for up to 3 months and use them fresh when assembling.
What should I do if my salad turns soggy too quickly?
This happens when the dressing hits the greens too early. To avoid sogginess, always keep the dressing separate until right before serving. Also, thoroughly dry your mixed greens after washing, and add the apple slices at the last second for maximum crunch.
Is this salad safe for dogs or people with nut allergies?
Because of the pecans, this salad isn’t safe for dogs or anyone with nut allergies. For a nut-free version, try substituting toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds to keep that satisfying crunch without the risk.
Easy Cranberry Pecan Salad That Will Brighten Up Your Lunch!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Toast Pecans: Preheat oven to 350°F and spread pecans on a baking sheet. Bake for 5–7 minutes until golden brown and fragrant.
- Prep Salad Base: Wash mixed greens in cold water, spin dry, then core and thinly slice the apple.
- Mix Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Assemble Salad: Combine greens, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and apple slices. Drizzle dressing and toss gently to coat evenly.
