Warm Spinach Salad with Apples, Brie and Pecans

Warm Spinach Salad with apples, Brie and pecans tossed in a warm, tangy dressing. A simple yet elegant salad perfect for cosy dinners.

Warm Spinach Salad with Apples, Brie and Pecans is a simple dish that feels a little more special than your everyday salad. Fresh spinach is lightly wilted with a warm dressing, then tossed with sweet maple-coated apples, creamy Brie, and crunchy pecans for a mix of flavours and textures in every bite.

It comes together quickly and works just as well for a cosy weeknight dinner as it does for a holiday table. Serve it on its own or alongside your favourite main for an easy, elegant addition to any meal.

Tips for Best Results

• Use firm apples – Granny Smith holds its shape well and adds a nice tart contrast to the sweet and creamy elements.
• Warm, not overcook – Heat the dressing just until it begins to simmer so it wilts the spinach without making it soggy.
• Add Brie at the end – This helps it soften gently without completely melting into the salad.
• Toss just before serving – Combine everything right before serving to keep the textures fresh and balanced.
• Toast the pecans – If not already toasted, this brings out their flavour and adds a better crunch.

Ingredients and Substitutions

• Granny Smith apples – Tart and firm; can swap for Honeycrisp or Gala for a sweeter flavour.
• Maple syrup – Adds natural sweetness; honey can be used as an alternative.
• Baby spinach – Fresh and tender; regular spinach works but should be chopped and stems removed.
• Brie cheese – Soft and creamy; Camembert is a good substitute with a similar texture.
• Pecans – Toasted for crunch; walnuts or sliced almonds can be used instead.

For the Dressing

• Apple juice – Adds a light sweetness; orange juice can be used for a brighter flavour.
• Cider vinegar – Provides tang; white wine vinegar is a suitable alternative.
• Dijon mustard – Helps emulsify and adds depth; whole grain mustard can be used.
• Garlic – Fresh is best for flavour; garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
• Olive oil – Brings everything together; any neutral oil will work.
• Salt and pepper – Adjust to taste.

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Warm Spinach Salad with Apples, Brie and Pecans

Yield: 4 servings | Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 large Granny Smith apples
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 8 cups baby spinach, washed
• 8 oz Brie cheese, cut into small pieces
• 1/2 cup toasted pecans

For the Dressing

• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup apple juice
• 3 tablespoons cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil

Directions

1. Peel and core the apples, then slice and place them in a small bowl. Toss with the maple syrup and set aside.
2. Add the spinach to a large serving bowl.
3. In a saucepan, whisk together the apple juice, cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, and olive oil. Heat over medium, whisking occasionally, until the dressing just begins to simmer.
4. Pour the warm dressing over the spinach and toss gently to start wilting the leaves.
5. Add the apples, Brie, and toasted pecans.
6. Toss lightly until everything is combined and the Brie begins to soften.
7. Serve right away while still warm.