Quarter and core the apples; place at bottom of slow cooker. Season pork with salt and pepper; add to slow cooker. Pour in broth. Cook on low 6-8 hours or until pork is no longer pink in the center.
Just before pork is done, prepare rice side dish: Boil some water and pour 2 tablespoons into a small cup; add crumbled saffron and allow to steep.
Meanwhile, dice the onion. Heat olive oil in saucepan over medium-high heat until hot (it will shimmer). Add onion and cook 2-3 minutes or until softened, stirring frequently. Add rice; cook for 2-3 minutes, continuing to stir often.
Stir in broth, water with saffron, and salt. Bring to a boil; reduce heat. Cover and cook 15-18 minutes or until liquid has absorbed and rice is the desired texture. Remove from heat and rest for 5 minutes.
For the salad: Chop lettuce and toss with your favorite dressing.
Serve pork and apples with rice and salad on the side.