Introduction
When autumn arrives, the air turns crisp, and kitchens fill with the comforting aroma of spices, roasted vegetables, and seasonal fruits. For me, fall salads are the perfect bridge between the freshness of summer and the coziness of winter meals. They bring together crunchy apples, earthy nuts, hearty greens, and creamy cheeses, often drizzled with tangy dressings that capture the spirit of the season. I still remember the first time I crafted one of these bowls of goodness for a family gathering—it was a turning point in how I viewed salads. That memory inspired me, Lina Vexley, to share the joy of fall salads with others.
Harvest Fall Salad
Equipment
- Large Salad Bowl
Ingredients
- 6 cups mixed greens romaine or spinach
- 1 apple thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup walnuts toasted
- 1/3 cup feta cheese cubed or crumbled
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Place the mixed greens in a large salad bowl.
- Add sliced apple, dried cranberries, walnuts, and feta cheese over the greens.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately and enjoy this crisp, seasonal delight.
Notes
Nutrition
How to Make Harvest Fall Salad
Making this harvest fall salad is simple, quick, and rewarding. Start by preparing the base of the dish with fresh, crisp greens. You can use a blend of romaine, spinach, or even kale, depending on the level of earthiness you prefer. Next, slice a fresh apple into thin wedges—Honeycrisp or Fuji apples are perfect choices for their balance of sweetness and tartness. Lay them beautifully over the greens to create that autumnal charm. Add a handful of dried cranberries for a burst of tangy sweetness, followed by toasted walnuts to bring crunch and a warm, nutty flavor. Cubes or crumbles of feta cheese add creaminess and a touch of saltiness, complementing the fruit and nuts.
For the dressing, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. This vinaigrette balances acidity and sweetness while binding all the flavors into harmony. Once the dressing is ready, drizzle it generously over the salad. Gently toss to ensure every bite has a mix of greens, fruit, nuts, and cheese.
The salad works beautifully as a side dish for roasted meats or as a light standalone meal. For extra depth, you can substitute walnuts with candied pecans or feta with creamy goat cheese. If you prefer a heartier salad, add roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes to enhance the fall flavors. The versatility of this dish ensures it can be adapted to whatever seasonal ingredients you have on hand. With just 15 minutes of preparation, you’ll have a refreshing salad that embodies the spirit of autumn and delights every palate.
Conclusion
Fall salads are a celebration of seasonal abundance, bringing together textures, flavors, and colors that evoke the warmth of autumn. With crisp apples, crunchy nuts, creamy cheese, and tangy dressings, they balance lightness and heartiness in one dish. Whether served as a starter for holiday feasts or enjoyed as a wholesome weekday meal, these salads offer both nourishment and comfort. Inspired by my love for seasonal cooking, I believe every bowl tells a story of the harvest season. So, gather your favorite fall ingredients and let your salad become a canvas for the beauty of autumn.