TikTok Apple Goat Cheese Pecan Salad
This TikTok Apple Goat Cheese Pecan Salad is a fresh and crunchy combination that’s super easy to throw together. It mixes crisp apple slices, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy pecans…
Tip: save now, cook later.This TikTok Apple Goat Cheese Pecan Salad is a fresh and crunchy combination that’s super easy to throw together. It mixes crisp apple slices, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy pecans for a salad that’s bright and satisfying. The flavors come together perfectly with a simple dressing that adds just the right touch of sweetness and tang.
I love making this salad when I want something light but still interesting to eat. The goat cheese adds a smooth, tangy bite that balances the sweetness of the apples, while the pecans give it a nice crunch. It’s one of those salads that feels special without needing a lot of work or fancy ingredients, which is why I keep coming back to it.
My favorite way to enjoy this salad is with some fresh greens like spinach or arugula, and a drizzle of honey mustard or balsamic dressing. It’s great as a quick lunch or a side dish for dinner, and I always find myself reaching for seconds. Plus, it looks so pretty on the plate that it’s perfect for sharing at a casual get-together.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mixed Greens: I enjoy spring mix or arugula because they’re tender but still have a slight peppery bite. If you prefer milder greens, baby spinach or romaine work nicely too.
Apple: Fuji or Honeycrisp apples give sweetness and crunch. Granny Smith apples are great if you want a more tart flavor. Just slice them thinly for even bites.
Goat Cheese: This cheese adds creaminess and tang. If you’re dairy-free, try a plant-based cheese or soft tofu for texture.
Pecans: Toasting pecans boosts their flavor and crunch. You can swap for walnuts or almonds if you like. Just toast them lightly to bring out their nuttiness.
Dressing: The honey mustard vinaigrette balances sweet and tangy well. If you want a vegan version, use maple syrup instead of honey. Apple cider vinegar gives a nice fresh acidity, but white wine vinegar works too.
How Do You Make The Toasted Pecans Perfect Every Time?
Toasting pecans is quick but key to adding great flavor. Here’s how to do it simply:
- Use a dry skillet on medium heat.
- Add pecans in a single layer and keep them moving by stirring or shaking the pan.
- They’re ready when you smell a nutty aroma and see a deepened color—about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Remove immediately to prevent burning.
A tip I like is to toast a bit extra and keep the leftovers for salads or snacks. It makes such a difference to the crunch and taste!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large salad bowl – perfect for mixing all the ingredients without spilling.
- Sharp knife – to slice apples thinly and evenly for the best texture.
- Cutting board – gives you a safe space to chop and slice.
- Small mixing bowl – great for whisking the dressing together quickly.
- Whisk or fork – helps you combine the dressing ingredients smoothly.
- Skillet or frying pan – needed to toast the pecans and bring out their flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different crunchy nutty taste.
- Use feta cheese instead of goat cheese for a sharper, saltier flavor.
- Add thinly sliced pear or grapes for extra sweetness and juiciness.
- Mix in cooked chicken or turkey to turn the salad into a filling meal.
TikTok Apple Goat Cheese Pecan Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (spring mix, arugula, or baby greens)
- 1 large apple (such as Fuji or Honeycrisp), thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare. Toasting the pecans takes 3-5 minutes, and the rest is quick slicing and whisking the dressing. You can toss everything together right before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Toast the Pecans:
Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the pecans and stir or shake the pan frequently for about 3-5 minutes until they’re fragrant and lightly browned. Then remove them from the pan and let them cool.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking constantly until the dressing thickens and blends together smoothly. Add salt and pepper to taste.
3. Assemble the Salad:
Place the mixed greens in a large bowl. Arrange the thin apple slices evenly on top. Sprinkle the toasted pecans and crumbled goat cheese over the salad.
4. Dress and Serve:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently if you like, or leave the dressing on top for a pretty presentation. Serve immediately and enjoy the mix of crisp, creamy, and crunchy flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Pecans for This Salad?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before toasting to avoid sogginess. Toasting frozen pecans the same way will bring out their flavor beautifully.
What Can I Substitute for Goat Cheese?
If you don’t have goat cheese, feta cheese is a great alternative for a similar tangy flavor. For a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based cheese or soft tofu crumbles.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover salad components separately if possible—keep the dressing in its own container and the greens, apples, cheese, and pecans in another. The salad itself can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day to maintain freshness.
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prep the apples, pecans, and dressing in advance, but it’s best to assemble the salad right before serving to keep the greens crisp and apples from browning. If needed, toss the apples in a little lemon juice to slow browning.
