Fall Harvest Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that celebrates the flavors of autumn. Packed with seasonal ingredients like roasted squash, apples, nuts, and dried cranberries, this salad is perfect as a side dish or a light meal. It’s not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great addition to any fall gathering!

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 4 cups mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, or kale)
• 1 cup butternut squash (peeled and cubed)
• 1 apple (sliced, such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup walnuts (toasted)
• 1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
• 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced)

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Timing

Making Fall Harvest Salad takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 20-25 minutes for roasting the squash.

Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare Squash: Toss the cubed butternut squash with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it out on a baking sheet.
3. Roast: Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized. Let cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

1. Mix Dressing Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, roasted butternut squash, sliced apple, dried cranberries, toasted walnuts, crumbled feta cheese, and red onion.
2. Drizzle with Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Step 4: Serve

1. Enjoy: Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish or a light main course. This salad is also great for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for a day.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Fall Harvest Salad (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	280
Protein	6g
Fat	18g
Carbohydrates	30g
Fiber	6g
Sugar	10g

Tips for Customization

• Add Protein: Incorporate grilled chicken, turkey, or chickpeas for added protein.
• Nut Variations: Substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different flavor and texture.
• Seasonal Variations: Use other seasonal fruits like pears or pomegranate seeds for added color and taste.

Conclusion

Fall Harvest Salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that perfectly embodies the essence of autumn. With its colorful ingredients and delicious dressing, this salad is not only nutritious but also a feast for the eyes, making it a must-try for your fall gatherings!