Creamy Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad

Prep time: 10 mins | Cook time: 0 mins | Servings: 4

Nutrition & WW SmartPoints (Per Serving)

 WW SmartPoints: 3 Points

 Protein: 3g

 Net Carbs: 18g

 Fat: 9g

 Calories: 160 kcal

Description

This creamy, crunchy Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad combines crisp fresh apples, tart dried cranberries, and crunchy pecans tossed in a light, Weight Watchers-friendly dressing. Wonderfully sweet and satisfying, it feels like an indulgent treat while keeping your clean-eating goals completely on track.  

Anti-Inflammatory Highlights

 Fresh Apples: Rich in quercetin and soluble pectin fiber, which support gut health and help lower systemic inflammation.  

 Pecans: Packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, vitamin E, and antioxidant polyphenols.  

 Dried Cranberries: Provide powerful bioactive flavonoids that support immune defense and reduce oxidative stress.  

Ingredients

 3 medium crisp apples (such as Honeycrisp, Gala, or Granny Smith), cored and diced  

 3 cups chopped mixed salad greens or baby kale  

 ⅓ cup unsweetened or lightly sweetened dried cranberries  

 ⅓ cup chopped pecans, toasted  

 ¼ cup unsweetened plain Greek yogurt (or light mayonnaise)

 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (prevents browning)

 1 tbsp pure maple syrup or honey

 A pinch of sea salt and ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. Prep the Apples: Core and dice the apples into bite-sized chunks. Toss them in a bowl with the fresh lemon juice to keep them crisp and bright.  

2. Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or light mayo), maple syrup (or honey), a pinch of sea salt, and ground cinnamon until smooth.

3. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large serving bowl, combine the chopped greens, diced apples, dried cranberries, and chopped pecans.  

4. Toss to Coat: Pour the creamy dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated.  

5. Serve or Meal Prep: Enjoy immediately for a fresh crunch, or divide into airtight containers for an easy, satisfying meal-prep lunch!

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