This TikTok Apple Goat Cheese Pecan Salad is a fresh and crunchy mix of sweet apples, creamy goat cheese, and toasted pecans all tossed with crisp greens. The combination of juicy fruit, tangy cheese, and nutty crunch makes it a delightful salad that’s both colorful and tasty.
I love making this salad when I want something quick but impressive. The sweet apples and creamy goat cheese balance each other perfectly, while the pecans add just the right amount of crunch. Plus, it’s so simple to put together, which is always a win in my book.
My favorite way to enjoy this salad is with a drizzle of honey or a light vinaigrette to bring all the flavors together. It’s a great side dish for lunch or dinner, and it’s always a hit when I bring it to gatherings. If you want something fresh and satisfying, this salad definitely hits the spot.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mixed Greens: Using a combination like romaine, butter lettuce, or spring mix gives the salad varied texture and freshness. If you prefer, spinach or arugula works well too for a peppery bite.
Apples: Gala and Fuji apples are sweet and crisp, perfect for salads. If you like tartness, try Granny Smith apples. Just keep them thinly sliced for easy eating.
Goat Cheese: This cheese adds a creamy tang. If goat cheese isn’t your favorite, feta or cream cheese are good alternatives. For dairy-free, try a tangy vegan cheese.
Pecans: Toasted pecans bring crunch and a toasted flavor. Walnuts or almonds can be swapped in if preferred, but toasting them enhances the nutty flavor.
Dried Cranberries or Cherries: These add chewiness and a sweet-tart pop. Raisins or chopped dried apricots can also work well here.
How Do I Toast Pecans Perfectly Without Burning Them?
Toasting nuts enhances their flavor and crunch but can be tricky. Here’s how I get pecans just right:
- Heat a dry skillet over medium heat — no oil needed.
- Add pecans in an even layer and stir every minute to toast all sides.
- After 3-5 minutes, when you smell a nutty aroma and see light browning, remove from heat.
- Let pecans cool before adding to salad to keep them crisp.
Keep a close eye—they can go from toasted to burnt quickly. Stirring often helps with even toasting!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large salad bowl – big enough to toss all the ingredients without spilling.
- Sharp knife – for slicing apples thinly and evenly.
- Cutting board – protects your counters and gives you a stable surface to work on.
- Small mixing bowl – to whisk together the dressing.
- Whisk or fork – helps blend the oil, vinegar, and honey smoothly for the dressing.
- Skillet – to toast the pecans and bring out their flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap pecans for walnuts or sliced almonds for a different nutty crunch.
- Use feta cheese instead of goat cheese for a milder, salty flavor.
- Add grilled chicken or turkey slices to turn it into a filling meal.
- Include sliced cucumber or avocado for extra freshness and creaminess.
TikTok Apple Goat Cheese Pecan Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (such as romaine, butter lettuce, or spring mix)
- 1 large apple (such as Gala or Fuji), thinly sliced
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup pecan halves, toasted
- ½ cup dried cranberries or dried cherries
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. Toasting the pecans takes around 5 minutes, and slicing the apple and mixing ingredients will only take a few minutes more. It’s a quick and easy dish perfect for a fresh, tasty meal or side.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Toast the Pecans:
Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the pecan halves and stir frequently for 3-5 minutes, until they become fragrant and lightly browned. Remove the pecans from heat and let them cool.
2. Whisk the Dressing:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the dressing is well combined and emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
3. Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, thinly sliced apples, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and crumbled goat cheese.
4. Dress and Toss:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad. Gently toss everything together to ensure the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
5. Serve:
Serve the salad immediately for the freshest taste. For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken or turkey slices.
Can I Use Frozen Pecans for This Salad?
Yes, you can use frozen pecans! Just thaw them completely at room temperature before toasting. This helps them toast evenly and brings out their full flavor.
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. Keep the dressing separate if possible to avoid soggy greens, then toss right before serving.
Can I Substitute the Goat Cheese?
Absolutely! Feta cheese or cream cheese are good alternatives if you don’t have goat cheese. Just crumble or slice them similarly for the best texture.
What Can I Use Instead of Apples?
If you’re out of apples, try substituting with sliced pears or even fresh grapes for a different but still sweet, juicy element in the salad.
