Name: Delicious Fall Harvest Salad with Butternut Squash and Apple
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 medium Butternut Squash (Cubed); 2 medium Crisp Apple (e.g., Honeycrisp, Fuji) (Sliced thinly); 5 cups Mixed Greens (spinach, kale, arugula) (Washed and dried); 1 cup Feta Cheese (Crumble into small pieces); 1 cup Pecans (Toasted); 1/2 cup Pomegranate Seeds or Dried Cranberries; 1/4 cup Olive Oil (High-quality); 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1/4 teaspoon Pepper; 2 tablespoons Maple Syrup (Adjust to taste); 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar; 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard; 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon (Optional)

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Can you hear the crackling leaves underfoot and smell the hint of cinnamon in the air? As autumn unfolds, it beckons us to embrace the warm, comforting flavors of the season. I’m excited to share my Fall Harvest Salad with Butternut Squash and Apple—a delightful blend of fresh, crisp apples and roasted butternut squash that captures the essence of fall. This salad not only looks stunning on the table, but its easy preparation means you can whip it up in no time, making it the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving feast or a light weekday lunch. Plus, with options for delicious substitutions like sweet potatoes or goat cheese, you can customize it to your taste. Are you ready to bring the taste of fall right to your kitchen?

Why is this salad a fall favorite?

Cozy Flavors: This Fall Harvest Salad brings a warm, inviting blend of sweetness from roasted butternut squash and crisp apples, perfectly embodying autumn.
Customizable: With simple substitutions like sweet potatoes or goat cheese, you can cater to every palate.
Nutrient-Dense: At approximately 320 calories per serving, it’s a healthy yet hearty option for your meals.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for Thanksgiving gatherings or an easy weeknight dinner, it’s a dish everyone will love!
Quick Preparation: You can have this salad ready in just 30 minutes, making it a time-saving option without compromising flavor.
Elevate your culinary repertoire with this vibrant salad—perfect alongside dishes like a French Apple Cider Chicken or a comforting Gratin with Gruyere and Thyme.

Fall Harvest Salad Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need for a delicious fall harvest salad!

For the Salad

Butternut Squash – Provides a sweet, creamy texture; substitute with sweet potatoes for a different twist.
Crisp Apple (e.g., Honeycrisp, Fuji) – A wonderful crunch and sweetness; slice thinly for easy eating.
Mixed Greens (spinach, kale, arugula) – Acts as a fresh base; massage kale with olive oil for better texture.
Feta Cheese – Adds a creamy, tangy flavor; can be switched with goat cheese or blue cheese if desired.
Pecans – Brings crunch and nuttiness; toasting enhances their flavor—walnuts or candied pecans work too.
Pomegranate Seeds or Dried Cranberries – Perfect for a seasonal touch and tart bursts of flavor; use whichever you prefer.

For the Dressing

Olive Oil – Essential for flavor and richness in the dressing; choose a high-quality version for the best taste.
Salt and Pepper – Simple seasonings that enhance the salad’s taste; don’t skip these!
Maple Syrup – Adds natural sweetness to balance the dressing; adjust to your liking based on sweetness preference.
Apple Cider Vinegar – Provides needed acidity to cut through sweetness; a must-have for flavor balance!
Dijon Mustard – Delivers depth and sharpness to the dressing; a little goes a long way.
Cinnamon – Optional warmth for the squash; adds a lovely autumnal touch if desired.

Now, you’re all set to create your cozy Fall Harvest Salad with Butternut Squash and Apple!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Fall Harvest Salad with Butternut Squash and Apple

Step 1: Roast the Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cube the butternut squash and toss it in a large bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional cinnamon for added warmth. Spread the seasoned cubes on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is golden brown and fork-tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Greens
While the squash is roasting, wash and dry your mixed greens thoroughly to ensure they stay crisp. If you’re using kale, take a moment to massage it gently with a little olive oil in a bowl to soften its texture and enhance flavor. Set the prepared greens aside as they wait to be combined in your Fall Harvest Salad.

Step 3: Slice and Crumble
Next, take a fresh, crisp apple and slice it thinly for an easy bite. Crumble your feta cheese into small pieces for a delightful tang. In a skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become fragrant and golden brown. This step will elevate the flavor of the pecans in your cozy salad.

Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, combine maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a generous drizzle of olive oil. Whisk together until well blended and smooth. Taste the dressing, adjusting with a pinch of salt and a sprinkle of cinnamon to match your preferences. This flavorful dressing will bring all the elements of the Fall Harvest Salad together beautifully.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad
Take a large bowl or platter and begin layering your salad. Start with the mixed greens at the bottom, then add the roasted butternut squash, apple slices, crumbled feta, and toasted pecans. Finally, sprinkle pomegranate seeds or dried cranberries on top for a vibrant touch. Drizzle the dressing over the assembled salad and toss gently to combine everything just before serving.

How to Store and Freeze Fall Harvest Salad

Fridge: Keep the undressed salad and dressing in separate airtight containers. The salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days, ensuring optimal crunch in your Fall Harvest Salad with Butternut Squash and Apple.

Freezer: While it is not ideal to freeze the assembled salad, you can freeze roasted butternut squash for up to 3 months. Thaw before adding to your fresh greens.

Reheating: If you want to enjoy roasted squash warm, reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes before serving. This step revives its cozy flavors!

Make-Ahead: For convenience, prepare the salad components a day ahead. Roast the squash and mix the dressing to save time, and then assemble before serving for the best texture.

Make Ahead Options

These Fall Harvest Salad with Butternut Squash and Apple are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can roast the butternut squash and prepare the dressing up to 24 hours in advance. Simply let the cooled squash and dressing cool, then refrigerate them separately to maintain their quality. Additionally, slice the apples and store them in water with a splash of lemon juice to prevent browning, keeping them fresh for meals up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just assemble the salad by layering the greens, roasted squash, sliced apples, and pecans. Drizzle with the dressing, toss gently, and enjoy the delightful flavors of fall with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Fall Harvest Salad with Butternut Squash and Apple

Bring your autumn dining experience to life with these delightful pairings that enhance the comforting flavors of your salad.

Roast Chicken: Juicy, tender chicken complements the sweetness of the salad perfectly, making for a well-rounded meal. The savory notes of seasoned roast chicken will harmoniously blend with the salad’s fresh ingredients.
Creamy Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of creamy pumpkin soup adds creaminess and a touch of spice that ties beautifully with the fall flavors of the salad. The velvety texture creates a cozy atmosphere that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Buttermilk Biscuits: Flaky, buttery biscuits serve as a delightful contrast to the salad’s crisp textures. Perfect for soaking up any dressing left on your plate, they add a homey touch to your fall feast.
Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts: The earthy flavors of Brussels sprouts, enhanced with a touch of maple, echo the sweetness in the salad, elevating the autumnal experience even further. Their crispy edges and tender insides will surely be a hit.
Mulled Cider: A warm glass of spiced mulled cider sets the scene for a cozy meal, echoing the flavors found in your fall harvest salad. The aromatic spices will envelop you in the essence of fall, making every sip a celebration.
Pumpkin Cheesecake: End on a sweet note with a slice of creamy pumpkin cheesecake. Its rich, spiced flavor serves as a dreamy counterpoint to the salad’s fresh ingredients, ensuring a memorable finish to your fall meal.

Variations & Substitutions for Fall Harvest Salad

Feel free to put your unique spin on this Fall Harvest Salad with Butternut Squash and Apple—the joy of cooking lies in exploring new flavors!

Sweet Potato Swap: Replace butternut squash with sweet potatoes for a sweeter, heartier base. The creamy texture complements the apples beautifully.
Goat Cheese Twist: Switch feta for crumbly goat cheese for a tangy flavor kick that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the squash and apples. Goat cheese adds a lovely earthy depth.
Walnut Crunch: Use walnuts instead of pecans for a slightly different flavor profile. Toast them until golden for an extra layer of richness.
Vegan Delight: Ditch the cheese altogether for a vegan version. Add avocado or silken tofu for creaminess without dairy, keeping all the delightful textures intact.
Spice it Up: For a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. This unexpected twist will bring a tantalizing warmth to your salad.
Seasonal Fruit Blast: Incorporate seasonal fruits like pear or pomegranate in place of apples for a refreshing touch. These alternatives invite vibrant flavors and add delightful juiciness.
Cinnamon Infusion: Add a pinch of nutmeg along with cinnamon to your roasted squash. This will deepen the warm spices and enhance the fall vibes even more!

Make this salad your own and let each bite reflect your personality—just like my family’s delicious take on the classic French Apple Cider Chicken or the warming Gratin with Gruyere and Thyme. Enjoy the journey of flavors!

Expert Tips for Fall Harvest Salad

Dress Just Before Serving: Ensuring your Fall Harvest Salad with Butternut Squash and Apple is dressed right before serving prevents sogginess, maintaining the delightful crunch of the greens.
Choose a Balanced Apple: Opt for crisp, sweet-tart apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji—they elevate the salad’s sweetness and provide a refreshing contrast to the savory elements.
Don’t Skip Toasting: Toasting your pecans enhances their flavor significantly; keep an eye on them to prevent burning—just 5-7 minutes over medium heat will do!
Roast Squash Evenly: Cut your butternut squash cubes to a uniform size for even roasting. This ensures every piece becomes tender and caramelized without any undercooked chunks.
Mix Up Your Greens: Feel free to experiment with mixed greens; combining spinach, kale, and arugula not only adds variety but also unique textures that enhance each bite.
Sweetness Adjustments: Personalize your dressing sweetness! Start with less maple syrup and adjust according to your taste—it’s all about finding the balance you love.

Fall Harvest Salad with Butternut Squash and Apple Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best butternut squash?
Absolutely! Look for squash that feels heavy for its size and has a smooth, tan skin. Avoid any with dark spots or soft patches as these indicate overripeness. When properly selected, the butternut squash will have a sweet and creamy texture once roasted, making it the perfect base for your fall salad.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
Keep your undressed Fall Harvest Salad components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This will keep the ingredients fresh for up to 3 days. The dressing, when stored in a separate jar, will remain fresh and flavorful. Remember to dress your salad just before serving to maintain that delightful crunch!

Can I freeze roasted butternut squash?
Certainly! To freeze roasted butternut squash, let it cool completely after roasting. Then, place it in airtight freezer bags or containers, removing as much air as possible. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before adding it to your salad or reheating it!

What if my salad ingredients are wilting or not fresh?
If you find your greens wilting, it’s often because they weren’t stored properly. Make sure they are completely dry before storing in airtight containers, and crisp them up in ice water for a few minutes prior to assembly. If your apples are soft, it’s a great time to use them in cooked dishes instead. Choose fresh, crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji with a nice crunch when preparing your salad!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! The Fall Harvest Salad is versatile for various dietary needs. If you’re catering to gluten-free diets, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. For those with nut allergies, you can easily substitute pecans with seeds, such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds, for added crunch without the risk. Always opt for organic ingredients where possible to ensure no allergens or preservatives are present!