Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a salad that breaks all the rules! This Apple Mozzarella Pecan Salad with Maple Vinaigrette is not just another boring green dish - it's a culinary masterpiece that combines sweet, savory, and crunchy elements into one jaw-dropping creation. Imagine crisp mixed greens dancing with juicy apple slices, creamy mozzarella balls, and toasted pecans, all brought together by a mind-blowing maple vinaigrette that will make your palate sing with joy!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 apple, sliced
- 1 cup mozzarella balls
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all the ingredients for the salad. Ensure you have 4 cups of mixed greens, 1 apple, 1 cup of mozzarella balls, 1/2 cup of toasted pecans, 1/4 cup of maple syrup, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1/4 cup of olive oil, and salt and pepper for seasoning.
- Wash the mixed greens thoroughly under cold running water. Spin them dry in a salad spinner or gently pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Place the mixed greens in a large salad bowl.
- Wash the apple, then slice it into thin wedges or bite-sized pieces, discarding the core. You can choose to leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients. Add the apple slices to the bowl with the mixed greens.
- Next, add the mozzarella balls to the salad bowl. If they are large, you may want to cut them in half for easier eating. Distribute them evenly over the greens and apple slices.
- Take the toasted pecans and sprinkle them over the salad. If you haven’t toasted the pecans yet, you can do so by placing them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until they are fragrant and lightly browned.
- In a small bowl or a jar with a lid, combine the maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil. Whisk or shake vigorously until the dressing is well combined and emulsified. Taste and season with salt and pepper to your preference.
- Drizzle the maple vinaigrette over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the dressing coats the mixed greens, apples, mozzarella, and pecans evenly.
- Serve the salad immediately on individual plates or in a larger serving bowl. Enjoy this refreshing Apple Mozzarella Pecan Salad with Maple Vinaigrette as a light lunch or as a side dish to your favorite meal.
Tips
- Toasting Pecans: The secret to an incredible crunch is properly toasting your pecans. Watch them carefully and stir frequently to prevent burning - you want a golden brown color and nutty aroma.
- Mozzarella Selection: Use fresh, high-quality mozzarella balls for the best flavor and texture. If they're large, halve them to ensure every bite is perfectly balanced.
- Dressing Technique: Make your maple vinaigrette ahead of time and store in a sealed jar. This allows the flavors to meld and makes last-minute preparation a breeze.
- Apple Freshness: Choose a crisp apple variety like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for the best texture and a slight tartness that complements the sweet maple dressing.
- Serving Tip: Dress the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp and prevent wilting. This ensures maximum freshness and flavor in every bite!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
