Mediterranean Crispy Apple Pecan Blue Cheese Salad
This salad brings together crisp apples, toasted pecans, and creamy blue cheese over tender greens, finished with a light honey-lemon vinaigrette. It’s refreshing yet indulgent, balanced with healthy fats and natural sweetness—classic Mediterranean flavors with a modern twist.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 3–4
Ingredients
Salad
4 cups mixed greens (arugula, baby spinach, or spring mix)
1 large crisp apple (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), thinly sliced
⅓ cup pecans, toasted
¼ cup blue cheese, crumbled
2 tbsp dried cranberries
Fresh cracked black pepper
Honey Lemon Vinaigrette
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1½ tbsp fresh lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
1½ tsp honey
½ tsp Dijon mustard
Salt, to taste
Instructions
Toast the Pecans
Heat a dry skillet over medium heat.
Toast pecans for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant.
Let cool.
Prepare the Dressing
Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon, and salt until emulsified.
Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, add greens and apple slices.
Drizzle lightly with dressing and toss gently.
Finish & Serve
Top with toasted pecans, blue cheese, cranberries (if using), and black pepper.
Serve immediately.
Tips & Notes
Extra Crunch: Add toasted sunflower seeds or walnuts.
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas.
Less Sharp: Use gorgonzola dolce instead of strong blue cheese.
Prevent Browning: Toss apple slices with a little lemon juice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes—prep all components separately and assemble just before serving.
Q: Is blue cheese Mediterranean-friendly?
Yes, in moderation—especially traditional European blues.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
Skip cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~280 kcal
Protein: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Fiber: 4 g
Fat: 22 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Sodium: 240 mg