Description
This Apple Pecan Fall Salad celebrates the best of autumn’s harvest with a delightful combination of crisp apples, toasted pecans, and tender roasted butternut squash. Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweetness, crunch, and creaminess, thanks to the addition of cranberries and optional goat cheese. The salad is complemented by a light, tangy maple vinaigrette that enhances each ingredient’s natural flavors, making it an ideal choice for a cozy fall meal. Perfect for both casual gatherings and festive occasions, this salad brings seasonal flair to any table. With its mix of textures and vibrant colors, it’s not only a feast for the palate but also for the eyes. Whether enjoyed as a main dish or a side, this salad captures the essence of autumn, making it a comforting and nourishing addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, and romaine)
- 1 large apple, thinly sliced (Honeycrisp or Gala recommended)
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup butternut squash, cubed and roasted
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange cubed butternut squash on a baking sheet, drizzle with a little olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
- While the squash is roasting, prepare the salad dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mixed greens, apple slices, pecans, goat cheese, dried cranberries, red onion, roasted butternut squash, and pumpkin seeds.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss until all ingredients are well-coated.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, autumn-inspired flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes