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Swede Dish Arugula–Apple Salad with Lemon–Honey Dressing (Vegan, Gluten-Free)

Prep Time 10 mins
Total Time 10 mins
Cuisine: ,
Courses: ,
Difficulty: Beginner
Servings: 6
Dietary: Vegetables, Roots + Plant Forward
Description

This fresh Scandinavian-inspired salad layers peppery arugula, thin-sliced apples, toasted pepitas, and a bright lemon–maple dressing. Light, crisp, and refreshing, it’s the perfect gluten-free and vegan-friendly side to balance richer Thanksgiving or Christmas dishes — or to enjoy on its own anytime during the autumn season.

Ingredients
    Salad
  • 5 oz baby arugula
  • 1 Honeycrisp or Pink Lady apple, thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup toasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
  • ¼ cup thin-sliced red onion (optional)
  • 2 Tbsp dried cranberries (optional; ensure no added dairy)
  • Fresh cracked black or white pepper
    • Lemon–Honey Dressing (Vegan Version!)
  • 3 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 ½ Tbsp lemon juice (fresh)
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 Tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard (check for gluten-free brand)
  • Pinch salt
  • Pinch white pepper (Swede Dish signature)
Instructions
    1. Make the Dressing
  1. 1
    In a small jar or bowl, whisk (or shake) together:
  2. 2
    olive oil
  3. 3
    lemon juice
  4. 4
    lemon zest
  5. 5
    maple syrup
  6. 6
    Dijon
  7. 7
    salt + white pepper
  8. 8
    Taste and adjust sweetness or lemon to your liking.
    9. 2. Assemble the Salad
  9. 9
    Add arugula to a large bowl or serving platter.
  10. 10
    Top with apple slices, onions, pepitas, and dried cranberries (if using).
    11. 3. Dress & Serve
  11. 11
    Drizzle dressing over top just before serving.
  12. 12
    Toss gently.
  13. 13
    Finish with cracked pepper and an extra pinch of lemon zest for brightness.
  14. 14
    Serve immediately.
Note

RECIPE NOTES

  • 100% Vegan (using maple syrup instead of honey)
  • 100% Gluten-Free (ensure GF Dijon)
  • Add walnuts or hazelnuts for a festive Scandinavian twist
  • Add shaved fennel for a Nordic-modern flavor profile
Keywords: swede dish salad, arugula apple salad, vegan gluten free salad, lemon maple dressing, nordic fall salad, clean holiday sides, thanksgiving salad vegan, scandinavian salad recipe, plant based holiday dishes
Read it online: https://swededish.com/recipe/swede-dish-arugula-apple-salad-with-lemon-honey-dressing-vegan-gluten-free/
Abby Phillips
Foodie + Boy Mom