Crunchy Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad

© Original recipe by Crave & Craft ©

🥗✨ Crunchy Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad — The Ultimate Holiday Salad! 🎄🥜

1. Introduction

Imagine a vibrant, crisp fruit salad bursting with fall flavors — sweet apples, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans all tossed together in a delightful dressing. The Crunchy Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad is the perfect festive side dish to elevate any holiday table. Its combination of textures and flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas feast or a cozy Thanksgiving gathering, this salad adds a refreshing and crunchy twist to traditional holiday fare.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in 15 minutes — Perfect for last-minute preparations.
• One-bowl preparation — Easy to assemble without a mess.
• Vibrant & festive — Eye-catching colors and fresh flavors.
• Healthy & flavorful — Packed with nutrients and natural sweetness.

3. Ingredient Notes

The quality of ingredients truly makes this festive side dish shine. Choose crisp, sweet apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp for a satisfying crunch and natural sweetness. Dried cranberries lend a tart contrast and a pop of color. Toasted pecans add rich, buttery nuttiness with a satisfying crunch. For the dressing, a touch of honey and lemon juice brightens the flavors while balancing the sweetness. I recommend using high-quality honey and fresh lemon for the best taste.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

To make this salad effortlessly, you’ll want some reliable kitchen tools. The Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer is perfect for roasting pecans to golden perfection — it makes the process quick and even, with minimal cleanup. A high-quality T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set helps toss the ingredients easily and ensures your fruits and nuts won’t stick. For mixing, a sturdy Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master makes chopping apples and cranberries a breeze.

5. How to Make Crunchy Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Pecans

Start by roasting the pecans in your air fryer. Spread them in a single layer and set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, or until fragrant and toasted. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. Once done, let them cool — their warm, smoky aroma will fill your kitchen!

Step 2: Core and Slice the Apples

While the pecans are cooling, core and thinly slice the apples. Use the Veggie Prep Master for quick, even slices. The apples should be crisp and slightly tart, providing a refreshing crunch with every bite.

Step 3: Toss the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the apple slices, dried cranberries, and cooled toasted pecans. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is evenly coated. The vibrant mixture will look inviting, with a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

Serve immediately to enjoy the crispness of the apples and crunch of the pecans. Garnish with a few extra cranberries or a sprig of fresh mint for a festive presentation!

6. Expert Tips for Success

• Choose firm, fresh apples to prevent sogginess.
• Toast pecans just before serving to maximize crunch and flavor.
• Prepare the salad just before serving to keep it crisp and fresh.
• Add a sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese for extra creaminess, if desired.

7. Variations & Substitutions

For a dairy-free or vegan version, skip cheese and substitute honey with agave syrup. Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nutty flavor. To add extra protein, include cooked quinoa or grilled chicken slices for a heartier salad. For a joyful color boost, incorporate pomegranate seeds or sliced oranges.

8. Storage & Reheating

This fruit salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent sogginess. Re-toss gently before serving to refresh the flavors.

9. FAQ

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the components separately and assemble just before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh.

What other nuts work well in this salad?

Almonds or walnuts can be substituted for pecans for a different flavor profile. Toast them for extra crunch.

Is this salad suitable for gluten-free diets?

Absolutely — all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure dried cranberries are free from gluten-containing additives.

Can I add protein to this fruit salad?

Yes, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crumbled cheese to make it more filling.

10. Conclusion

This Holiday Salad combines fresh, vibrant flavors with satisfying crunch, making it an essential addition to any festive occasion. Light, nutritious, and beautifully colorful, it’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. Give it a try, and your holiday gathering will be even more memorable!

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