Apple Cranberry Salad with Maple Pecan Dressing for the Holidays

The Apple Cranberry Salad with Maple Pecan Dressing for the Holidays brings a burst of color, crunch, and seasonal flavor to your festive table. Crisp apples, tart cranberries, and sweet pecans mingle with a maple-scented dressing that embodies the warmth of the season. Whether it’s Thanksgiving dinner or Christmas brunch, this salad serves as a refreshing counterbalance to the richness of traditional holiday dishes. In this article, you’ll discover the story behind this crowd-pleasing favorite, the essential ingredients, step-by-step preparation, and elegant serving ideas—all designed to make your holiday meals more memorable and delicious.

Why This Apple Cranberry Salad Is a Holiday Favorite

Childhood Memories Around the Holiday Table

Some of the most cherished memories come from the dishes that graced our family’s holiday table, and one that always stood out was the blend of crisp apples and tangy cranberries. As the kitchen filled with the comforting scent of maple syrup and roasted pecans, you knew the holidays had truly arrived. The combination of sweet, tart, and nutty aromas evoked a sense of comfort that only home-cooked food can bring. Each spoonful connected generations—grandparents who cracked pecans by hand, parents who whisked the dressing to perfection, and children waiting eagerly for that first bite of the Apple Cranberry Salad with Maple Pecan Dressing for the Holidays. It wasn’t just about the ingredients; it was about the laughter, storytelling, and togetherness that surrounded the table.

Over time, the Apple Cranberry Salad with Maple Pecan Dressing for the Holidays became more than a side dish—it became a family trademark. Amid plates filled with roasted turkey, glazed ham, and buttery casseroles, this salad brought lightness and balance. Its crisp apple slices provided a refreshing crunch, while the maple pecans and dried cranberries added bursts of flavor that excited every palate. The tangy-sweet maple dressing tied everything together, creating a harmony that felt both nostalgic and new. Beyond taste, its jewel-toned colors made it visually striking—a vibrant centerpiece amid the golden browns and creamy whites of typical holiday fare.

What makes this dish particularly loved is its simplicity. It’s quick to prepare, travels well to potluck gatherings, and complements just about any main course. Even better, it caters to a range of dietary preferences, making it a versatile choice for festive entertaining. Over the years, the Apple Cranberry Salad with Maple Pecan Dressing for the Holidays has become the dependable, delightful dish everyone requests—a symbol of freshness and flavor that elevates every celebration.

Apple Cranberry Salad with Maple Pecan Dressing for the Holidays

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• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This vibrant salad combines crisp apples, tart cranberries, mixed greens, and candied pecans tossed in a maple pecan dressing for a refreshing holiday side. It’s simple to prepare, visually striking, and pairs beautifully with traditional festive mains.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

6 cups mixed greens

2 medium apples thinly sliced

1/2 cup dried cranberries

1/2 cup candied or toasted pecans

1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese

3 tablespoons maple syrup

1/4 cup olive oil

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

salt to taste

cracked pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and spread pecans on a baking sheet

2. Toast pecans for 5–7 minutes until fragrant and golden

3. Toss toasted pecans with 1 tablespoon maple syrup and a pinch of cinnamon until glossy, then let cool

4. Whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified

5. Place mixed greens in a large bowl and layer apple slices evenly over them

6. Sprinkle dried cranberries and crumbled feta cheese on top of the greens

7. Drizzle half of the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat

8. Top salad with cooled candied pecans and drizzle remaining dressing just before serving

9. Serve in a wide shallow bowl or platter to showcase the colors

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: tossing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 12
• Sodium: 220
• Fat: 14
• Saturated Fat: 2
• Unsaturated Fat: 10
• Trans Fat: 0
• Carbohydrates: 22
• Fiber: 3
• Protein: 4
• Cholesterol: 5

Keywords: apple cranberry salad, holiday salad, thanksgiving salad, christmas salad recipes, maple pecan dressing, festive salad, fall salad, cranberry salad, pecan salad

Building the Perfect Apple Cranberry Salad

Fresh Ingredients That Shine in Every Season

The beauty of the Apple Cranberry Salad with Maple Pecan Dressing for the Holidays lies in its balance of color, texture, and seasonal flavor. Every ingredient plays an important role—adding crunch, sweetness, or tart contrast that comes together perfectly on the palate. Below is a breakdown of what you’ll need for a salad that tastes as impressive as it looks:

When choosing apples, opt for firm, juicy varieties that hold their shape once sliced. Crisp options like Honeycrisp or Fuji offer sweetness, while Pink Lady provides a mild tang. For cranberries, dried ones add chewiness; however, if fresh cranberries are available, briefly sauté or roast them with honey to soften their tartness.

The pecans are the star accent. Lightly toasting or candying them enhances both flavor and aroma, lending a cozy feel that perfectly complements the maple-based dressing. Meanwhile, creamy cheese crumbles provide contrast, making every bite balanced and indulgent.

The key to making this Apple Cranberry Salad with Maple Pecan Dressing for the Holidays shine is freshness. Wash and dry greens thoroughly using a salad spinner to avoid sogginess. Slice the apples just before serving to maintain their crisp texture and beautiful color. These thoughtful touches elevate a simple salad into an elegant holiday feature.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide for Maple Pecan Dressing

1. Prepare the Pecans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecans on a baking sheet and toast for 5–7 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. For candied pecans, toss them in a skillet with a tablespoon of maple syrup and a pinch of cinnamon, stirring until coated and slightly glossy. Let them cool completely before adding to the salad.
2. Make the Maple Pecan Dressing: In a small mixing bowl or mason jar, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Add salt and pepper, whisk briskly until emulsified, and adjust sweetness or acidity as needed.
3. Assemble the Salad Base: Place washed and dried greens in a large serving bowl. Layer apple slices across the greens and sprinkle with dried cranberries and crumbled feta cheese.
4. Add the Finishing Touches: Drizzle half of the dressing over the salad before serving, toss gently, and top with toasted or candied pecans.
5. Presentation Tips: Serve in a shallow white or wooden bowl for a festive appearance, keeping dressing on the side for guests to drizzle fresh portions.

• Helpful Tools: Mixing bowls, whisk, salad spinner, sharp knife, cutting board, airtight container, and a serving platter.
• Pro Tips: Chill greens before assembling, whisk dressing again before serving, use vegan cheese alternatives as needed, and refrigerate leftover dressing for up to one week.

Combining these simple steps ensures that every bite of your Apple Cranberry Salad with Maple Pecan Dressing for the Holidays is a celebration of texture and seasonal abundance. It’s a dish that looks gourmet but comes together with the ease every holiday cook appreciates—a festive favorite that tastes just like the season feels: fresh, warm, and endlessly inviting.

Serving, Pairing, and Presentation Ideas

Beautiful Ways to Serve Your Holiday Apple Cranberry Salad

Presentation can take a simple dish and make it extraordinary, especially during the holidays when the table becomes the centerpiece of celebration. The Apple Cranberry Salad with Maple Pecan Dressing for the Holidays is naturally vibrant—with ruby cranberries, green leaves, and caramelized pecans—but a few thoughtful touches can help it truly shine as part of your Thanksgiving Salad or Christmas Salad Recipes collection.

For family-style dinners, pile the salad high in a wide, shallow white bowl or a rustic wooden tray. The contrast of colors makes the greens pop, and the natural textures fit right in with cozy, seasonal décor. A drizzle of the golden maple dressing just before serving adds a glossy finish that catches the candlelight beautifully. Garnish with a few extra apple slices or pomegranate seeds for an extra touch of holiday sparkle.

If you’re hosting a buffet, consider serving the salad in layered trifle bowls or large glass vessels to show off its festive hues. Guests can see every ingredient—from crisp apples to toasted pecans—enticing them to take a generous scoop. For more formal or plated gatherings, portion the salad into small individual cups or mini bowls, perfect for cocktail-style serving.

To tie into your theme, coordinate presentation with seasonal accents like rosemary sprigs, cinnamon sticks, or red-and-white napkins. Whether your style is rustic farmhouse or modern minimalist, this salad fits beautifully, bringing color, freshness, and warmth to your spread.

Perfect Pairings and Make-Ahead Options

The Apple Cranberry Salad with Maple Pecan Dressing for the Holidays pairs perfectly with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or vegetarian favorites like butternut squash risotto and baked brie with cranberry compote. Its tangy-sweet balance complements hearty entrées, while bright flavors refresh the palate between bites of richer dishes. For brunch, serve it beside quiche or frittata—it’s equally lovely.

To save time, toast pecans and mix dressing up to a week ahead. Wash and dry greens a day in advance, refrigerating them in a towel-lined container. Slice apples close to serving time or coat lightly with lemon water to prevent browning. When ready to serve, toss greens with toppings and drizzle dressing just before guests arrive. Keeping dressing separate ensures crisp, fresh texture every time.

Keep extra dressing nearby—guests often want more of that maple-sweet flavor. With its effortless beauty and delightful balance, this salad isn’t just another side dish; it’s a must-have for seamless, flavorful, and stress-free holiday hosting.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make the Apple Cranberry Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare all components up to a day ahead—toast the pecans, mix dressing, and wash greens—then store separately in airtight containers. Slice apples just before serving or toss them in lemon water. Combine and dress right before your meal for the freshest texture.

2. What apple types work best for this salad?
Crisp, firm varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, or Pink Lady work wonderfully. Mix sweet and tangy apples for balanced flavor. Avoid soft or mealy options that might turn mushy once dressed.

3. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Yes. Lightly sauté or roast fresh cranberries with a touch of maple syrup to mellow their tartness before cooling and adding to the salad. This brings a gourmet twist and stunning pop of color.

4. How long does the maple pecan dressing last?
Stored in a sealed jar in the refrigerator, the dressing keeps for up to one week. Shake or whisk before serving to re-emulsify the ingredients and restore its silky smooth texture.

5. What are some substitutions for nuts or cheese?
For a nut-free version, use pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or crispy chickpeas. Cheese alternatives like goat or blue cheese, or plant-based options, offer similar creamy contrast to balance the sweet-tart elements of the salad.

Bringing It All Together – A Toast to Holiday Simplicity

The Apple Cranberry Salad with Maple Pecan Dressing for the Holidays captures everything cherished about festive cooking—vibrant colors, crunchy textures, and the cozy flavors of maple and roasted nuts. It’s a bridge between generations at the holiday table, delighting guests while offering effortless preparation for busy hosts.

Serve it beside turkey, ham, or even breakfast favorites, and it adds sparkle to every meal. The medley of maple sweetness, cranberry tartness, and apple freshness embodies holiday cheer in every bite.

As you gather with loved ones this season, let this salad become part of your tradition. Adapt it, personalize it, and serve it with gratitude. The Apple Cranberry Salad with Maple Pecan Dressing for the Holidays isn’t just food—it’s a celebration of togetherness, simplicity, and the joy found in sharing something truly special.