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–+ servings
A rustic bowl of cranberry and pecan salad made with mixed greens, diced apples, dried cranberries, candied pecans, and goat cheese drizzled with honey balsamic dressing on a wooden table.

Cranberry and Pecan Salad 🥗

This Cranberry and Pecan Salad is a fresh, flavorful mix of sweet and savory goodness! Crisp spring greens, tart Granny Smith apples, tangy goat (or feta) cheese, and chewy dried cranberries come together with crunchy candied pecans. It’s all tossed in a light, homemade honey balsamic dressing that balances every bite perfectly. This easy salad is ideal for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or anytime you crave something bright and delicious.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American, Southern Cooking
Servings 6
Calories 305 kcal

Equipment

  • large mixing bowl
  • Chef's Knife
  • cutting board
  • Whisk
  • airtight dressing jar

Ingredients
  

For the Salad

  • 4 cups baby mixed greens or spring mix
  • ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
  • ½ cup dried cranberries
  • ½ cup candied pecans
  • 1 Granny Smith apple diced
  • 2 oz goat cheese or feta cheese

For the Dressing

  • 2 tbsp honey
  • ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • ¾ cup olive oil
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions
 

  • In a small bowl or jar, whisk together honey, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking until well combined and emulsified.
  • On a large serving platter or bowl, layer the spring mix, red onion slices, diced apple, dried cranberries, and candied pecans.
  • Sprinkle goat or feta cheese evenly across the top.
  • Drizzle with the honey balsamic dressing just before serving, and toss lightly to coat.

Notes

Nutritional values provided are estimates only and are calculated based on general nutritional data for the listed ingredients. Actual values may vary depending on the specific brands, measurements, and preparation methods used. For precise dietary information, please consult a registered dietitian or use a verified nutrition calculator with the exact ingredients you use.

Nutrition

Serving: 1.5cCalories: 305kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 4gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 13gCholesterol: 8mgSodium: 215mgPotassium: 210mgFiber: 3gSugar: 19gVitamin A: 1800IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 70mgIron: 0.8mg
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