There’s something magical about bringing a fresh, vibrant salad to the holiday table — especially when it balances sweetness, crunch, and a pop of seasonal color. This Cranberry Pecan Salad with Maple Dressing captures everything we love about autumn gatherings: bright cranberries, buttery roasted pecans, and crisp greens drizzled with a silky-smooth maple dressing. It’s a festive and flavorful Green Salad for Thanksgiving that complements hearty dishes and adds a refreshing touch to the feast. In this article, we’ll share the heartwarming story behind the recipe, step-by-step directions, serving ideas, creative variations, and answers to common questions.
A Family Tradition Reimagined for Thanksgiving
The first time I made Cranberry Pecan Salad with Maple Dressing was during a Thanksgiving when I wanted something lighter to balance our usual spread of rich sides and roasted meats. The kitchen was filled with warmth — cinnamon-spiced pies cooling by the window, the faint hum of family chatter from the dining room, and the irresistible aroma of roasted pecans toasting in butter. When I whisked together the maple dressing, its sweet earthiness filled the air, instantly reminding me of cozy autumn mornings and the golden hues of falling leaves.
That inaugural salad turned out to be more than just a side dish — it became the star among our heavy comfort favorites. Each bite offered contrast: the tart burst of cranberries, the crunch of pecans, and the velvety sweetness of the Maple Dressing coating every leaf. It wasn’t long before this simple, colorful dish evolved into our signature Thanksgiving Salad, requested year after year.
Now, it’s part of our annual menu — a family tradition reimagined through color and flavor. We gather around the table with bowls of this Cranberry Pecan Salad glistening beside the turkey, knowing it ties generations together in one joyous, refreshing bite. Every holiday season since, it reminds us that even small dishes can hold the biggest memories.
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cranberry pecan salad with maple dressing
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
A vibrant autumn salad featuring mixed greens, tart cranberries, toasted pecans, and creamy cheese tossed in a silky maple dressing. This easy-to-make side adds color, crunch, and seasonal flavor to any holiday or winter meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Rinse and dry salad greens thoroughly, then place in a large bowl.
2. Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium-low heat for 4–5 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant; let cool.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Add cranberries, cooled pecans, red onion, and cheese to the greens; toss gently.
5. Drizzle dressing over salad and toss just before serving to coat evenly.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate components separately and dress just before serving for maximum freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: salad
- Method: tossing
- Cuisine: american
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 12
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Unsaturated Fat: 14
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 18
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 4
- Cholesterol: 10
Keywords: cranberry pecan salad, maple dressing, thanksgiving salad, autumn salad, holiday salad, green salad, winter salad, easy salad, healthy salad
Why This Green Salad for Thanksgiving Wins Every Time
A good Green Salad for Thanksgiving should do more than fill space on the table — it should complement the richness of the feast with balance and beauty. This Cranberry Pecan Salad does exactly that. The freshness of the greens cuts through heavier flavors like buttery mashed potatoes and gravy, while the maple dressing adds a touch of warmth that perfectly matches the season.
What makes it the perfect Thanksgiving salad idea is its harmony of texture and taste. The crispness of leafy greens, the chew of tart cranberries, and the crunch of toasted pecans bring excitement to every forkful. Its jewel-toned colors — deep reds, amber browns, and vibrant greens — mirror the beauty of autumn itself, turning your holiday table into a feast for both the eyes and palate.
Beyond appearances, this salad fits effortlessly alongside Thanksgiving classics. It pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, baked ham, or even honey-glazed vegetables. Whether you’re hosting a small family gathering or a grand holiday dinner, it lifts the entire meal with a refreshing, light-hearted touch. No wonder it stands out among Thanksgiving Salad Recipes, Cranberry Salad Recipes, and Autumn Salad Recipes — it’s simple, elegant, and ready to bring cheer to every winter celebration.
Ingredients and Preparation
Fresh Ingredients That Bring it to Life
The heart of any delicious Cranberry Pecan Salad lies in its ingredients — fresh, colorful, and complementary. Each component brings a unique flavor and visual appeal: crisp greens for freshness, jewel-like cranberries for tartness, buttery pecans for crunch, and creamy cheese to round it all out. The luscious Maple Dressing ties everything together with its mellow sweetness and autumn depth. Below is a detailed list of what you’ll need to create this seasonal favorite.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes / Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Mixed salad greens (spinach, arugula, or spring mix) | 6 cups | Any hearty leafy greens can work. Baby kale adds extra texture. |
| Fresh cranberries or dried cranberries | ¾ cup | Use dried cranberries for a sweeter twist or fresh for more tartness. |
| Pecans (halved) | 1 cup | Toast lightly for deeper flavor. Walnuts work as a substitute. |
| Crumbled cheese (feta or goat cheese) | ½ cup | Omit or use vegan cheese for a dairy-free option. |
| Red onion (thinly sliced) | ¼ cup | Optional for a bit of sharp contrast. |
| Apple slices (optional) | ½ apple | Add sweetness and texture; choose crisp apples like Honeycrisp. |
| Maple Dressing Ingredients | ||
| Pure maple syrup | 3 tablespoons | Foundation of the dressing’s warmth and sweetness. |
| Apple cider vinegar | 2 tablespoons | Balances the richness of the syrup. |
| Olive oil | ¼ cup | Use extra-virgin for best flavor. |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon | Helps emulsify the dressing; adjust to taste. |
| Salt and freshly ground pepper | To taste | Brings out all the other flavors. |
For dietary adjustments:
- For vegan diners, skip the cheese or use a plant-based version.
- For nut-free preferences, sunflower seeds make an excellent alternative to pecans.
- To reduce sweetness, use less maple syrup and more vinegar for sharper flavor.
Every version offers the same visual appeal — ruby cranberries and golden pecans glinting against a leafy green backdrop that hints at the beauty of fall and makes an ideal Thanksgiving Salad Recipe.
Simple Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
- Wash and dry the greens. Rinse your greens thoroughly under cold water, then dry them completely using a salad spinner or paper towels so the dressing clings without watering down.
- Toast the pecans. Heat a skillet on medium-low, add the pecans in a single layer, and stir for 4–5 minutes until fragrant and golden. Let them cool before using.
- Prepare the maple dressing. Whisk maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper together in a small bowl until smooth. For easy storing, shake in a sealed jar instead.
- Assemble the salad. Arrange greens in a serving bowl, scatter cranberries, pecans, onion, and cheese, and layer apple slices if using.
- Dress and toss right before serving. Drizzle the Maple Dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently so the leaves stay crisp.
Tools you’ll need: mixing bowl, whisk, salad spinner, and a pretty serving platter for holiday presentation. The process takes less than 20 minutes, so you can focus on other Winter Salad Recipes while still delivering a dish that’s colorful, crisp, and full of charm.
Serving, Variations & Pairings
How to Serve and Store Cranberry Pecan Salad for the Holidays
When it comes to serving this delightful Cranberry Pecan Salad, timing is everything. Keep the greens fresh by waiting until just before mealtime to drizzle on the dressing. Tossing too early can wilt the leaves, and the salad’s appeal is in its crisp contrast between tart cranberries, crunchy nuts, and tender greens.
To simplify your feast prep, wash and dry the greens early, toast the pecans a day ahead, and refrigerate the Maple Dressing for up to two days. Shake it well before serving. When ready, assemble, toss, and serve fresh for the ideal Thanksgiving Salad texture.
For leftovers, store greens and dressing separately to retain crispness. Keep undressed greens in a sealed bag lined with paper towel, and refrigerate the dressing in a jar. Once combined, consume within 24 hours for best results. This efficiency makes it a star among Cranberry Salad Recipes and other Autumn Salad Recipes for the holidays.
Variations and Perfect Pairings for a Festive Spread
This Cranberry Pecan Salad with Maple Dressing invites creativity. Add sliced apples or pears for a fruity twist. Incorporate goat cheese, blue cheese, or Brie for richer layers, or swap in pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a nut-free crunch. Each tweak highlights new flavors without losing the salad’s seasonal charm.
Pair it with roast turkey, baked ham, or warm vegetable sides for a full meal. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements its sweetness, while sparkling apple cider makes a refreshing non-alcoholic match. For Christmas, add pomegranate arils or candied nuts to transform it into an elegant centerpiece. That adaptability ensures it stands out among all Christmas Salad Recipes, Winter Salad Recipes, and Holiday Salad Recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions & Conclusion
FAQs About Cranberry Pecan Salad with Maple Dressing
1. Can I make Cranberry Pecan Salad ahead of time?
Yes, but keep components separate. Prepare greens, dressing, and toasted pecans in advance, then toss together right before serving to keep it crisp and flavorful.
2. What type of greens work best?
Use hearty yet tender greens like baby spinach, arugula, or spring mix. They hold the Maple Dressing well and provide freshness ideal for a Green Salad for Thanksgiving.
3. Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes. Dried cranberries add sweetness and convenience, while fresh ones bring sharp tartness. Soak dried fruit briefly in warm water or orange juice to plump them before adding.
4. How long does the maple dressing keep?
Store it in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to a week. Shake before using to recombine ingredients. It’s excellent on other Autumn Salad Recipes or roasted vegetables too.
5. What’s the best way to toast pecans without burning them?
Toast in a dry skillet on medium-low for 4–5 minutes, stirring often, or bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 7 minutes. Their nutty aroma signals perfection, adding crisp flavor to your Cranberry Pecan Salad.
Final Thoughts – Why This Cranberry Pecan Salad Deserves a Place at Your Table
Every Thanksgiving table tells a story of comfort and celebration, and this Cranberry Pecan Salad with Maple Dressing captures that beautifully. Its mix of tart cranberries, buttery pecans, and velvety greens reflects the season’s warmth and generosity.
Versatile and visually stunning, it fits effortlessly into any feast — a Green Salad for Thanksgiving that refreshes the palate and delights every guest. Elegant enough for celebrations yet easy enough for weeknights, it’s one of the most rewarding Thanksgiving Salad Recipes you can share.
As you plan your next gathering, let this colorful recipe bring lightness and cheer to the table. The simple act of tossing these wholesome ingredients together creates something special — a dish that tastes like love, gratitude, and the essence of winter itself. Keep it on hand for every festive occasion, and let it remind you why good food always brings us closer.
