Autumn Harvest Salad

Autumn Harvest Salad is a vibrant, seasonal salad full of fall flavors and textures. With crisp apples, roasted squash, crunchy nuts, dried cranberries, and tangy cheese, it’s a fresh and satisfying dish perfect for autumn gatherings or a healthy lunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with seasonal ingredients like apples, squash, and cranberries
• Perfect balance of textures: creamy cheese, roasted veggies, crisp greens, and crunchy nuts
• Easy to customize with your favorite fall produce
• Ideal for holidays like Thanksgiving or casual weeknight meals
• Healthy yet hearty, offering a nutrient-dense, satisfying meal or side

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, or baby kale)
• 1 small butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 apple (Honeycrisp or Gala), thinly sliced
• ¼ cup dried cranberries
• ¼ cup pecans or walnuts, toasted
• ¼ cup goat cheese or feta, crumbled
• Olive oil
• Salt and black pepper
• Optional: cooked quinoa or farro for extra heartiness

Dressing:

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

directions

this recipe

1. Roast the squash: Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20–25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
2. Prepare the dressing: Whisk together olive oil, vinegar, maple syrup, mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
3. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, roasted squash, apple slices, cranberries, nuts, and cheese.
4. Dress the salad: Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve: Enjoy immediately, optionally topped with grilled chicken or served as a side dish.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4 as a main dish or 6–8 as a side
• Prep time: 10–15 minutes
• Cook time: 20–25 minutes
• Total time: 30–40 minutes

Variations

• Protein boost: Add grilled chicken, turkey, or roasted chickpeas
• Cheese swap: Use blue cheese, shaved parmesan, or brie instead of goat cheese
• Fruit options: Swap apples for pears or pomegranate seeds
• Nutty twist: Use almonds, hazelnuts, or candied pecans for different flavors
• Grain addition: Add cooked quinoa, wild rice, or farro for a more filling salad

storage/reheating

• Storage: Store salad components separately for up to 3 days
• Dressed salad: Best eaten the same day to avoid soggy greens
• Roasted squash: Can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Reheating: Gently warm roasted squash if desired, but serve salad cold or at room temperature

FAQs

Can I make Autumn Harvest Salad ahead of time?

Yes, prepare all components ahead and assemble just before serving to maintain texture.

What greens work best?

Mixed baby greens, arugula, spinach, or a blend of kale and romaine are all great choices.

Can I use pre-cut squash?

Absolutely—buying pre-cut butternut squash saves time and works just as well.

What’s the best apple variety for this salad?

Crisp, slightly sweet apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala pair wonderfully with the savory ingredients.

Is this salad vegetarian or vegan?

It’s vegetarian. To make it vegan, use a plant-based cheese or omit the cheese.

How can I make it more filling?

Add a protein source like grilled chicken, roasted chickpeas, or a grain like farro.

Can I use a store-bought dressing?

Yes, a light balsamic vinaigrette or apple cider dressing works well if you’re short on time.

What nuts are best?

Pecans, walnuts, or almonds all add great crunch—toast them for even more flavor.

Does this salad work for holidays?

Yes! It’s a popular choice for Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving as a fresh, festive side.

Can I serve it warm?

Yes, especially with freshly roasted squash or warm grains—it’s delicious slightly warm or at room temp.

Conclusion

Autumn Harvest Salad brings the best of fall produce into one beautiful, balanced dish. Whether you serve it as a light entrée, a hearty side, or a holiday favorite, its colors, flavors, and textures will win over everyone at the table.

Print