Fall Harvest Salad

If you’re looking for a vibrant, seasonal dish to brighten your table, this Fall Harvest Salad is just what you need! Bursting with the cozy flavors of autumn, it’s like a warm hug on a plate. Each bite combines roasted butternut squash, crunchy pecans, and sweet apples drizzled with a mouthwatering maple vinaigrette. Whether you’re preparing dinner for a busy weeknight or hosting a family gathering, this salad is sure to impress everyone at the table.

What I love most about this Fall Harvest Salad is how versatile it is. You can serve it as a main dish or as a delightful side. Plus, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients that not only taste amazing but are also good for you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 50 minutes from start to finish, this salad fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of flavors and textures makes it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the components ahead of time and toss them together just before serving for easy entertaining.
• Seasonal Goodness: Celebrate fall harvests with fresh ingredients that highlight the best of the season.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vegetables and protein, this salad is as healthy as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering fresh, simple ingredients is part of the fun in making this salad! You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store or farmers’ market. Let’s dive into these wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully.

For the Salad

• 4 cups butternut squash, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• Kosher salt and black pepper
• 4 slices bacon
• 4 cups chopped kale
• 6 cups mixed spring greens
• 2 cups cooked shredded turkey or chicken (8 ounces)
• 1 Honeycrisp or Jonathan apple, cored and diced
• ⅔ cup pecan halves, toasted and chopped
• ⅓ cup dried cranberries
• ½ cup peeled Manchego or Parmesan (2 ounces)

For the Vinaigrette

• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• ¼ cup white balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons minced shallot
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

Variations

One of the best things about this Fall Harvest Salad is how flexible it can be! Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use roasted chickpeas or quinoa instead of turkey or chicken for a vegetarian option.
• Add different greens: Try spinach or arugula if you want to change up the base for added flavor.
• Mix in other fruits: Pears or pomegranate seeds would add even more autumnal flair!
• Experiment with nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different crunch.

How to Make Fall Harvest Salad

Step 1: Roast the Squash

First, let’s get that oven preheated to 400 degrees F. While it heats up, place your butternut squash on a sheet pan. Drizzle it with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, then toss to coat. Arranging them in a single layer helps them roast evenly. Roast until tender—about 25 to 30 minutes—tossing halfway through for that perfect caramelized flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

While your squash roasts, grab a large nonstick skillet and cook those bacon slices over medium heat until they’re crispy. The aroma will fill your kitchen! Once they’re done, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease before chopping them into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Prepare the Kale and Greens

Add your chopped kale into a large serving bowl or platter. Give it some love by massaging and squeezing gently; this helps soften the kale so it’s more enjoyable to eat. Next, toss in your mixed spring greens until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Assemble Your Salad

Now comes the fun part! Arrange your roasted squash, chopped bacon, shredded turkey or chicken, diced apple, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and cheese over the top of your greens. It’s like creating art!

Step 5: Make the Vinaigrette

In a small measuring cup, whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, minced shallot, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste—it’s important because this dressing ties all those flavors together beautifully!

Step 6: Dress and Toss

Finally, drizzle that delicious vinaigrette over your salad masterpiece and gently toss everything together until evenly coated. Give it one last taste test; adjust seasoning if needed!

Now you’ve got yourself an incredible Fall Harvest Salad that’s perfect for any occasion! Enjoy every colorful bite!

Pro Tips for Making Fall Harvest Salad

Creating the perfect Fall Harvest Salad can be a delightful experience, and these tips will help you make it even better!

• Choose fresh ingredients – Fresh produce not only enhances the flavor but also ensures your salad is vibrant and packed with nutrients. Visit your local farmer’s market for the best seasonal options.
• Toast your nuts – Toasting pecans brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor. Just a few minutes in a dry skillet or oven can make a big difference in taste and crunchiness.
• Massage the kale – Gently massaging the kale with olive oil helps to break down its tough fibers, making it tender and more enjoyable to eat. This simple step elevates the overall texture of your salad.
• Make it ahead of time – You can roast the squash and prepare the vinaigrette in advance. Assemble everything just before serving to keep your greens fresh and vibrant.
• Be generous with the dressing – The maple vinaigrette is deliciously sweet and tangy; don’t hold back! Drizzling a little extra on top right before serving gives every bite that perfect burst of flavor.

How to Serve Fall Harvest Salad

This beautiful Fall Harvest Salad makes for an eye-catching centerpiece on any table, whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering. Here are some suggestions for serving this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs – A sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Crumbled feta or goat cheese alternatives – If you’re looking for a creamy addition, consider using plant-based feta or goat cheese alternatives that blend wonderfully with the salad’s ingredients.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts – These crispy little gems have a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the squash in your salad. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until golden brown.
• Quinoa pilaf – A light quinoa pilaf with herbs can add another layer of texture and flavor. It’s a great option if you want to make your meal heartier without overpowering the salad.
• Sweet potato wedges – Baked sweet potato wedges seasoned with cinnamon and paprika create a satisfying side dish that echoes the fall theme while adding some comfort food vibes.
• Cranberry sauce (without gelatin) – A homemade cranberry sauce made with orange juice and zest can bring out the tangy sweetness that ties into the salad’s dried cranberries beautifully.

Enjoy crafting this Fall Harvest Salad as part of your autumn meals! With its mix of flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Fall Harvest Salad is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it to enjoy throughout the week. Here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover salad in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the vinaigrette separate until ready to serve to avoid sogginess.

Freezing

• It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as the ingredients may become mushy upon thawing, particularly the greens and roasted squash.
• If you have leftover cooked turkey or chicken, you can freeze that separately for later use.

Reheating

• If you want to warm up the roasted squash or turkey/chicken, place them in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals until warmed through.
• Toss fresh greens and toppings in just before serving for optimal texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making a Fall Harvest Salad:

Can I make this Fall Harvest Salad without bacon?

Absolutely! You can omit the bacon and replace it with crispy chickpeas or sunflower seeds for added crunch and flavor.

What makes this a great Fall Harvest Salad?

This salad celebrates autumn with seasonal ingredients like butternut squash, apples, and pecans, perfectly complemented by a maple vinaigrette that’s both sweet and tangy.

How can I customize my Fall Harvest Salad?

Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preference. Add roasted Brussels sprouts, swap apples for pears, or incorporate your favorite nuts or seeds!

Is this Fall Harvest Salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This salad is excellent for meal prep as it maintains its flavor when stored properly. Just add the dressing right before serving!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Fall Harvest Salad brings warmth to your table during those crisp autumn days! It’s not just a salad; it’s a celebration of fall flavors that can brighten any meal. Enjoy making it as much as I do, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients. Happy cooking!