Who says apples are a fall fruit? They can be just as springtime-scrumptious as the next fruit, and Apple Pecan Salad sets out to prove it! The apple is crisp and fresh and sweet and juicy, contrasting with the smoky-sweetness of the candied pecans, the garden-leafiness of the lettuce, and the sharpness of the cheddar, and it’s altogether just a joy to bite into time and time again, regardless of the season! Throw a creamy lemon dressing on top for some richness and brightness and you have a salad that embodies the best of spring and apples alike! Apple Pecan Salad might seem simple on the surface, but the flavors are stellar!
Ingredients
For the creamy lemon dressing:
- 3/4 cup crème fraiche or plain Greek yogurt
- 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
For the salad:
- 2 heads Romaine lettuce, chopped
- 2 large Honeycrisp apples, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup candied pecans
- 4 ounces aged white cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 tablespoon chives, minced
Directions
Step 1 –In a medium bowl, combine the crème fraiche, 3 tablespoons of the lemon juice, the lemon zest, the honey, and the salt, whisking until smooth.
Step 2 –Place the lettuce in a large salad bowl.
Step 3 –Drizzle the apple slices with the remaining lemon juice and toss to prevent the apples from browning.
Step 4 –Add the apple slices, the pecans, the grated cheese, and the chives to the salad bowl.
Step 5 –Add the creamy lemon dressing and toss until the salad is well coated.
Step 6 –Serve immediately.
