Fall Harvest Salad

If you’re looking for a way to celebrate the flavors of fall, this Fall Harvest Salad is just what you need. It’s packed with roasted butternut squash, crunchy pecans, and sweet apples, making it a delightful dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just want to whip up something special for a busy weeknight dinner, this salad brings warmth and comfort to the table.

This recipe is not only vibrant and delicious but also incredibly satisfying. With its mix of textures and colors, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Plus, it’s easy enough that even novice cooks can impress their friends and family. Let me show you why this Fall Harvest Salad is bound to become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just about 50 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Each bite bursts with the flavors of autumn, from sweet apples to savory roasted squash.
• Family-Friendly: With ingredients that appeal to everyone, it’s a great way to get your loved ones excited about healthy eating.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or side dish; it’s perfect for any meal!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare components in advance, so you can toss everything together when you’re ready to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Fall Harvest Salad uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. You’ll love how each component complements the others 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 Dressing

• 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 its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use grilled chicken or chickpeas instead of turkey to suit your taste.
• Change up the greens: Spinach or arugula can add a different flavor profile while still keeping it fresh.
• Add seasonal fruits: Pears or pomegranate seeds can bring an additional layer of sweetness and texture.
• Make it vegan: Omit the bacon and cheese, using extra nuts or seeds for crunch instead.

How to Make Fall Harvest Salad

Step 1: Roast the Squash

Start by heating your oven to 400 degrees F. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness in butternut squash. Toss the cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a sheet pan. Spread them out in a single layer and roast until tender—about 25-30 minutes. Don’t forget to toss them halfway through for even cooking!

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

While the squash roasts, cook your bacon in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat until crispy. This step adds smokiness to our salad. Once done, transfer it to paper towels to drain excess fat before chopping it into bits.

Step 3: Prepare the Greens

In a large serving bowl or platter, add chopped kale. Gently massage it with your hands; this softens the leaves and makes them more enjoyable to eat. Then toss in mixed spring greens for added flavor and nutrition.

Step 4: Assemble Your Salad

Now comes the fun part! Layer on top of your greens: roasted squash, crispy bacon bits, shredded turkey (if using), diced apple, pecans, dried cranberries, and cheese. Each ingredient adds its unique charm!

Step 5: Make the Vinaigrette

In a small liquid measuring cup, whisk together olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, minced shallot, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard. This dressing ties everything together beautifully! Taste it as you go; adjust with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Toss It All Together

Drizzle that lovely vinaigrette over your salad masterpiece! Give everything a gentle toss so each bite is coated in flavor. It’s time for everyone at your table to enjoy a bowl full of fall goodness!

Pro Tips for Making Fall Harvest Salad

Creating the perfect Fall Harvest Salad is all about using fresh ingredients and ensuring each flavor shines through. Here are some handy tips to elevate your salad game:

• Use seasonal produce: Opting for fruits and vegetables that are in season, like butternut squash and crisp apples, enhances the flavors and ensures freshness.
• Toast your nuts: Toasting pecans before adding them brings out their natural oils and intensifies their flavor, adding a delicious crunch to your salad.
• Massage the kale: Gently massaging the kale helps to break down its fibrous texture, making it more tender and palatable without losing its nutritional benefits.
• Customize your protein: Feel free to switch out chicken or turkey for another protein source like chickpeas or quinoa for a vegetarian-friendly option while still keeping it hearty.
• Make ahead vinaigrette: Preparing your maple vinaigrette in advance not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

How to Serve Fall Harvest Salad

Presenting your Fall Harvest Salad can be as delightful as eating it! Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a side, there are plenty of ways to make it visually appealing and delicious.

Garnishes

• Crumbled feta cheese: Adding crumbled feta introduces a tangy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the squash and cranberries.
• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme adds a pop of color and an aromatic touch that brightens up the dish.
• Pomegranate seeds: These little jewels not only add a burst of color but also offer a tart sweetness that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper, these crispy little bites make for a hearty side that pairs well with the earthy flavors of the salad.
• Quinoa pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf with herbs and lemon zest is not only nutritious but also offers a nice textural contrast to the salad’s crunchiness.
• Sweet potato wedges: Baked sweet potato wedges seasoned with cinnamon make for a comforting side that harmonizes with the autumn theme of this meal.
• Crispy flatbread: Serve some warm, crispy flatbread on the side for an added crunch; it’s perfect for scooping up those delicious salad bites!

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Fall Harvest Salad will shine on any table. Enjoy every bite as you celebrate the flavors of fall!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Fall Harvest Salad is perfect for meal prep! With its vibrant ingredients and delicious flavors, you can whip it up ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Keep the vinaigrette separate to avoid sogginess, and add it just before serving.
• Consume leftovers within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• This salad is not suitable for freezing as the greens will wilt and lose their texture.
• However, you can freeze the roasted butternut squash separately for future use.

Reheating

• If you have leftover roasted squash, reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Avoid reheating mixed greens to keep them fresh and crisp!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious Fall Harvest Salad.

Can I make the Fall Harvest Salad without bacon?

Absolutely! You can replace bacon with crispy chickpeas or simply omit it entirely. The salad will still be packed with flavor from other ingredients!

What variations can I try with my Fall Harvest Salad?

Feel free to experiment by adding different nuts like walnuts or almonds, using different cheeses, or incorporating seasonal fruits like pears or pomegranates for extra flavor.

How do I store leftover Fall Harvest Salad?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, keeping the dressing separate. Enjoy within three days for best results!

Can I use different greens in my Fall Harvest Salad?

Yes! You can substitute kale with spinach, arugula, or any leafy greens you prefer. Each option adds a unique taste and texture to your salad.

Final Thoughts

This Fall Harvest Salad is a celebration of autumn’s bounty, bringing together warm flavors and fresh ingredients that nourish both body and soul. I hope you enjoy making this colorful dish as much as I do. It’s perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in. Don’t hesitate to get creative with it—add your favorite ingredients and make it your own! Happy cooking!