Arugula, Nectarine & Pecan Salad with Bright Apple Cider Vinaigrette

Arugula, Nectarine & Pecan Salad with Bright Apple Cider Vinaigrette

This Arugula, Nectarine & Pecan Salad is the perfect mix of fresh and satisfying. Peppery arugula, sweet nectarines, toasted pecans, and a touch of feta cheese come together for a beautiful balance of flavors and textures. The bright apple cider vinaigrette—made with shallots, Dijon, and honey—pulls everything together with just the right tang. Easy to make and always a hit, this salad is ideal for any meal or occasion.

🥗 Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Salad:

• 6–8 cups fresh arugula

• 2 ripe nectarines, thinly sliced (can easily substitute nectarines with peaches, apples or any other fruit that you love!)

• ½ cup candied pecans

• ½ cup feta or crumbled goat cheese (wonderful as well)

• Fresh cracked black pepper

🍎 Bright Apple Cider Vinaigrette

Ingredients:

• ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil

• 4 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1–1½ teaspoons honey (adjust to taste)

• 1 small shallot, finely minced or grated

• ½ teaspoon sea salt

• ⅛–¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper

• Optional: 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice for added brightness

• Optional: pinch of thyme or basil

Directions:

1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the vinegar, Dijon, honey, shallot, salt, pepper, and optional lemon juice or herbs.

2. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking until fully emulsified.

3. Taste and adjust—more vinegar for brightness, more honey for sweetness, more oil for smoothness.

4. Store in a sealed jar up to 1 week; shake before using.

🥗 Assemble the Salad:

1. Build the base: Add arugula to a large serving bowl.

2. Add toppings: Scatter sliced nectarines, candied pecans, and feta cheese over the greens.

3. Dress the salad: Drizzle several spoonfuls of the apple cider vinaigrette over the top. Gently toss until everything is lightly coated.

4. Finish: Add a crack of black pepper and serve immediately.