Harvest Salad

The first time I tried a Harvest Salad, I was instantly transported to a cozy autumn evening. Imagine crunching through crisp leaves on your way home, the air filled with a hint of sweetness and spice. This salad brings all those feelings to your table! With vibrant colors from mixed salad greens, red apples, and pears, it celebrates the season’s bounty. It’s not just a salad; it’s a way to savor the moment. I remember serving it during Thanksgiving last year, and it was the star of the show. Everyone kept coming back for seconds, and I couldn’t help but feel the warmth of family gathering around good food. The Harvest Salad became our go-to dish, showcasing how simple ingredients can create something wonderful. It’s packed with flavors, from the dried cranberries to the chopped pecans, and topped off with a delightful maple balsamic dressing.

Ingredients to Make Harvest Salad

When it comes to creating the perfect Harvest Salad, the ingredients play a crucial role in harmonizing flavors and textures. Each element contributes to a vibrant dish that captures the essence of fall. Here are the key players:

• 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as spinach, arugula, and kale) – The base of the salad, providing a fresh crunch.
• 1 red apple, diced – Adds a sweet and juicy element that contrasts beautifully with the greens.
• 1 pear, diced – Enhances the sweetness and texture, complementing the apple.
• ¼ cup chopped pecans – Provides a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, perfect for autumn.
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese – Offers a creamy, salty note that balances the sweetness of the fruits.
• ¼ cup dried cranberries – Introduces a tangy pop of flavor, reminiscent of the holiday season.
• ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion – Adds a sharp bite that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar – The vinegar brings acidity that brightens the entire dish.
• ¼ cup pure maple syrup – Provides natural sweetness to the dressing, elevating the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Adds depth and a gentle kick to the dressing.
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – Enriches the dressing and adds healthy fats.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of the salad.

Putting Together Harvest Salad

Creating the Harvest Salad is a breeze, and it’s all about layering flavors. You’ll love how quickly it comes together. Follow these steps to craft a salad that’s bursting with fall goodness.

1. Start by preparing the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard until well combined. It’s important to do this first so the flavors have time to meld together. As you whisk, you’ll notice the mixture thickening slightly. This is a good sign!

2. Next, slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously. This step is crucial for emulsifying the dressing. You want to achieve a creamy consistency that clings to the salad ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set this flavorful dressing aside.

3. If you choose to toast the pecans, preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread the pecans on a baking sheet and toast them for about 5 to 7 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they become fragrant and lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning. Once toasted, remove them from the oven and let them cool.

4. Now, it’s time to assemble the salad. In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced apples, diced pears, toasted pecans, crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, and sliced red onion. The colors should be vibrant and inviting!

5. Just before serving, drizzle the prepared maple balsamic dressing over the salad. This is where the magic happens. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly with the dressing. Be careful not to bruise the delicate greens; you want everything to remain crisp.

6. Enjoy your Harvest Salad immediately as a side dish or, if you’re feeling adventurous, add grilled chicken or leftover turkey on top for a complete meal. The combination of flavors is sure to leave your guests raving!

Helpful Notes about Harvest Salad

Creating the perfect Harvest Salad is simple and enjoyable. Here are some helpful notes to keep in mind:

• Storage: The salad is best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dressing can be stored separately to keep the greens crisp.
• Freezing: Freezing the salad is not recommended as the greens will wilt, and the texture will be compromised.
• Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, making it a great addition to any barbecue or holiday feast.
• Variations: Try adding other seasonal fruits like pomegranate seeds or persimmons for a twist.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week.

Great Combinations for Harvest Salad

Serving the Harvest Salad can be as fun as making it! Here are some great combinations to consider:

• Serve as a Side: This salad is a fantastic side for roasted turkey or grilled chicken, enhancing the meal with its fresh flavors.
• Lunch Option: Pack it for a healthy lunch at work or school. It’s filling yet light, perfect for midday energy.
• Holiday Gatherings: Ideal for Thanksgiving or any fall celebration, it brings a festive touch to your table.
• Potluck Dish: Take it to gatherings; it’s sure to impress and disappear quickly!
• Seasonal Pairings: Enjoy it with warm, crusty bread or alongside a hearty soup for a complete fall meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

Ultimately, the Harvest Salad is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of fall. Its combination of fresh ingredients and a tantalizing dressing creates a dish that’s not only satisfying but also visually appealing. I encourage you to give this recipe a try, whether for a special occasion or a weekday meal. You’ll find that it’s a joyful addition to your table, bringing warmth and flavor to every bite. Enjoy every moment spent preparing and sharing this beautiful salad!

Harvest Salad

The ultimate way to enjoy fall flavors, this Harvest Salad combines crunchy greens, sweet apples, and tangy cranberries for a refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a festive side, this easy recipe is sure to impress!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Course Side Dishes

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 200 kcal

Equipment

• Whisk
• Oven
• Chef's Knife
• Cutting Board
• Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

  

• 4 cups mixed salad greens
• 1 red apple, diced
• 1 pear, diced
• ¼ cup chopped pecans
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ¼ cup dried cranberries
• ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
• ¼ cup pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

 

• In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard until well combined. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously until the dressing emulsifies. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
• Toast the pecans (optional): Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spread the pecans on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. Once toasted, remove from the oven and let them cool.
• In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced apples, diced pears, chopped pecans, crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, and thinly sliced red onion.
• Just before serving, drizzle the maple balsamic dressing over the salad. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly with the dressing.
• Enjoy immediately as a side dish or add grilled chicken or leftover turkey on top for a complete meal.

Notes

No additional tips available.

Keyword Fall Salad Ideas, Harvest Salad Recipe, healthy salad recipes, Thanksgiving Salad

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Meet Camila Rivera

I’m Camila, and I believe the very best meals are the ones that bring the whole family together. My passion is taking classic, beloved dishes and adding a spicy or zesty twist to wake up your palate. I have cooked, tweaked, and taste-tested this recipe right here in my own home kitchen to ensure it works perfectly for you. I hope you enjoy every single bite let me know how it turns out!