Apple, Pear & Cranberry Salad with Goat Cheese and Pecans

 Ingredients

For the salad

• 5 cups mixed salad greens or baby spinach

• 1 large apple, thinly sliced

• 1 ripe but firm pear, thinly sliced

• ½ cup dried cranberries

• ½ cup pecan halves

• 4 oz (115 g) crumbled goat cheese or feta

• ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the maple balsamic dressing

• 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar

• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 tbsp pure maple syrup or honey

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1 small garlic clove, minced

• ¼ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

 Instructions

1. Prepare the dressing: Whisk balsamic vinegar, olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.

2. Prepare the greens: Wash and thoroughly dry the salad greens. Place them in a large serving bowl.

3. Slice the fruit: Core the apple and pear, then cut them into thin slices. Toss with a little lemon juice if preparing ahead to help prevent browning.

4. Add the toppings: Arrange the apple, pear, red onion, dried cranberries, and pecans over the greens.

5. Add the cheese: Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese or feta evenly over the salad.

6. Dress the salad: Drizzle with the maple balsamic dressing just before serving.

7. Finish and serve: Toss gently, garnish with parsley, and serve immediately to keep the greens crisp.

 Nutrition Information

Approximate per serving, based on 6 servings.

 Nut & Allergen Information

• Peanuts: None in the listed ingredients

• Tree nuts: Yes — pecans

• Dairy: Yes — goat cheese or feta

• Gluten: Generally gluten-free; check packaged ingredients

• Eggs: None in the basic recipe

• Soy: Check the labels of packaged dressing ingredients

Nut-free option: Omit the pecans and use toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds, provided they are safe for your dietary needs. If cooking for someone with a nut allergy, check labels and avoid cross-contact.

 Q/S — Quick Questions & Substitutions

Can I use walnuts instead of pecans? Yes, walnuts or sliced almonds work well, but both are tree nuts.

Can I use feta instead of goat cheese? Yes. Feta gives the salad a saltier, tangier flavor.

Can I replace the dried cranberries? Yes. Try raisins, dried cherries, or fresh pomegranate seeds.

Can I make the dressing without maple syrup? Yes. Use honey or a small amount of brown sugar.

Can I add chicken? Yes. Add 1–2 cups of grilled chicken for a more filling main-course salad.

Can I prepare it ahead? Prepare the dressing and wash the greens in advance. Slice the fruit and add the pecans and dressing just before serving so everything stays fresh and crunchy.