1 apple thinly sliced and halves cut crosswise - or chopped
Maple Vinaigrette
⅓ cup olive oil
⅓ cup pure maple syrup - see note
5 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons orange juice - or 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
¾ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon coarsely cracked black pepper - or 1/8 teaspoon finely ground black pepper
INSTRUCTIONS
First, prepare the candied pecans. In a small skillet, toast pecans for 1 minute over medium-high eat. Add sugar and stir constantly until sugar dissolves. Sprinkle cinnamon over pecans and stir until pecans are sugar-coated. Immediately transfer to a sheet of parchment or a heat-resistant plate to cool slightly.
Prepare salad by arranging lettuce on a platter. Top with apples, cranberries, pecans, and bacon.
Combine all dressing ingredients in a jar, shake vigorously to combine. Pour over salad immediately if serving right away, or wait until just before serving (shake well just before pouring over salad).