There’s nothing quite like a simple fall harvest salad to capture the essence of the season. Picture vibrant greens mingling with roasted squash, crunchy apples, and a drizzle of tangy vinaigrette that dances on your taste buds. delicious fall dessert option Each bite is a celebration of autumn, bringing warmth and comfort even as the leaves turn crisp and golden. treat yourself to pumpkin pie cookies warm up with butternut squash soup. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter green beans recipe recipe.
This salad isn’t just about flavor; it’s about reconnecting with those cozy family moments around the table. Remember those fall afternoons when you helped your grandma gather fresh produce from her garden? This recipe brings back that nostalgia, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners at home. indulge in chocolate-covered Oreos Get ready to indulge in an explosion of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This simple fall harvest salad is a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or festive occasions
- Its colorful ingredients create a stunning visual appeal that brightens any table
- The versatility allows you to mix in whatever seasonal produce you have on hand, ensuring a unique experience every time you make it
- Every bite offers a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds
I still remember the first time I made this salad for my friends during our annual autumn potluck. Their delighted reactions made me feel like a culinary genius!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Mixed Greens: A blend of arugula and spinach provides the perfect base with peppery notes and freshness.
- Roasted Butternut Squash: Choose firm squash; roasting brings out its natural sweetness and enhances the flavor.
- Sliced Apples: Crisp varieties like Honeycrisp add just the right amount of sweetness and crunch.
- Toasted Pecans: These add a lovely nutty flavor and satisfying crunch; don’t skip toasting them!
- Dried Cranberries: Opt for unsweetened ones for a tangy contrast that balances the sweetness of apples.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta elevates this salad with its creamy texture and salty kick.
For the Dressing:
- Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for depth of flavor.
- Balsamic Vinegar: A splash adds acidity that ties all ingredients together beautifully.
- Dijon Mustard: Just a dab gives your dressing some zing without overpowering other flavors.
- Honey: A touch of honey enhances sweetness while balancing tartness from vinegar.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven : Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Squash : Peel and cube your butternut squash into bite-sized pieces. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper before spreading them evenly on the baking sheet.
Roast the Squash : Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized. You want them to be golden brown with crispy edges—so delicious!
Toss Your Greens : In a large bowl, combine mixed greens with sliced apples, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and feta cheese. The vibrant colors will instantly lift your mood!
Make the Dressing : Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until well blended. It should have a smooth consistency—taste it; it’s like liquid gold!
Assemble & Serve : Drizzle the dressing over your salad mixture right before serving to keep everything crisp. Toss gently so every ingredient gets coated in that heavenly dressing.
Now you’re ready to enjoy this simple fall harvest salad! It’s not just food; it’s an experience filled with warmth, love, and memories waiting to be made around your dinner table.
You Must Know
- This simple fall harvest salad is packed with seasonal flavors; it’s colorful, fresh, and pairs beautifully with any main dish
- The crunchy textures and sweet-tart dressings make it a delightful addition to your autumn table
- Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by prepping all ingredients before assembling the salad. Chop veggies and fruits to ensure even mixing and flavor distribution.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have. Try adding nuts for crunch or cheese for creaminess to enhance flavors.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Avoid reheating as it’s best enjoyed cold.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a vibrant salad, use a mix of leafy greens like kale or spinach
- Always taste before serving; adjust seasonings as needed
- Make sure your fruits are ripe for the best flavors!
Sometimes, I whip up this simple fall harvest salad when friends drop by unexpectedly, and they always rave about it!
FAQ
What greens work best in a simple fall harvest salad?
Mix spinach, arugula, or kale for a flavorful base in your salad.
Can I add proteins to my simple fall harvest salad?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken or chickpeas can boost protein content and make it heartier.
How long does the dressing last in the fridge?
Homemade dressing stays fresh in the fridge for about one week if stored properly.
Fall Harvest Salad
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Embrace the flavors of autumn with this vibrant and delicious Fall Harvest Salad. Featuring a blend of mixed greens, roasted butternut squash, crisp apples, and tangy feta cheese, this salad is drizzled with a zesty homemade dressing that perfectly balances sweetness and acidity. Ideal for cozy dinners or festive gatherings, this dish captures the essence of fall in every bite.
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens (arugula and spinach)
- 2 cups roasted butternut squash (cubed)
- 1 cup sliced Honeycrisp apples
- ½ cup toasted pecans
- ½ cup dried cranberries (unsweetened)
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Peel, cube, and toss butternut squash in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on the baking sheet.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized.
- In a bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced apples, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and feta cheese.
- Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper for the dressing.
- Drizzle dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Feel free to swap in seasonal produce like pears or pomegranate seeds for added flavor. For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas.
