Description
Autumn Harvest Salad
Ingredients
6 cups fresh arugula or mixed greens
1 cup roasted butternut squash, diced
½ cup crumbled goat cheese or feta
½ cup dried cranberries
½ cup pecans, roughly chopped
1 small apple, thinly sliced
Dressing:
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Pinch of salt & pepper
Directions
Prepare the Dressing:
In a small jar, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified. Set aside.
Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, layer arugula, roasted butternut squash, apple slices, dried cranberries, pecans, and crumbled goat cheese.
Drizzle & Toss:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to combine.
Serve & Enjoy:
Serve immediately for a burst of autumn flavors!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes (for roasting squash)
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 280 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
1. Roast the Squash: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss 1-inch cubes of butternut squash with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized. Let cool slightly.
2. Prepare Components: While squash roasts, thinly slice the apple, roughly chop the pecans, and crumble the cheese. Place your greens in a large serving bowl.
3. Make the Dressing: Combine all dressing ingredients in a jar with a tight-fitting lid. Shake vigorously until fully combined and slightly thickened.
4. Assemble with Care: On top of the greens, artfully arrange the cooled squash, apple slices, dried cranberries, and pecans. Sprinkle the crumbled cheese over the top.
5. Final Toss: Just before serving, drizzle the desired amount of dressing over the salad. Using salad tongs or two large spoons, gently toss from the bottom upward to coat evenly without crushing the ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad can be served as a stunning side or a light main course. For a heartier meal, top with grilled chicken, sliced turkey breast, or pan-seared salmon. Serve it alongside a warm, crusty bread or a bowl of creamy soup for a complete autumn feast. To make it ahead, keep the dressing separate and add the apples at the last minute to prevent browning.
How-to Summary
Create this Autumn Harvest Salad by first roasting diced butternut squash. Whisk together a simple honey-Dijon vinaigrette. In a large bowl, combine fresh arugula, the roasted squash, sliced apple, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and crumbled goat cheese. Drizzle with the dressing, toss gently, and serve immediately for a fresh, flavorful dish packed with fall ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, for best results, prepare components separately. Store cooled squash, chopped nuts, cheese, and dressing in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble and dress just before serving.
What’s a good substitute for goat cheese? Feta cheese is an excellent alternative, offering a similar tangy and crumbly texture. For a vegan option, use a plant-based feta or creamy avocado chunks.
How do I prevent the apples from browning? Toss the apple slices in a small amount of lemon juice or the prepared dressing before adding them to the salad. This creates a barrier against oxidation.
Can I use a different type of nut? Absolutely. Walnuts, candied pecans, or toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas) would all be delicious and add a wonderful crunch.
Is there a shortcut for the butternut squash? You can often find pre-cubed butternut squash in the produce section. Alternatively, substitute with sweet potato cubes or even roasted beets for a different flavor profile.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid adding warm roasted squash directly to the greens, as it will cause them to wilt. Always let it cool first. Do not dress the salad until you are ready to serve, as the vinaigrette will break down the delicate greens. Finally, resist over-tossing the salad after adding the cheese and nuts to keep the texture intact.
Conclusion
The Autumn Harvest Salad is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of seasonal produce. With its perfect balance of sweet, savory, crunchy, and creamy elements, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings the essence of fall to your table. Simple to prepare yet impressive in presentation, this salad is a healthy and delicious way to enjoy the best flavors of the season.