Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette
Crisp and vibrant, this Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette brings together the best of fall flavors. Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, casual dinners, or a healthy lunch option, this salad shines with the combination of tart apples, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans. The homemade apple cider vinaigrette elevates it to new heights, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and tang.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Profile: The blend of sweet and savory ingredients creates a taste experience that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
- Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can easily whip up this salad for any occasion.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize your salad by swapping ingredients based on your preferences or what’s in season.
- Nutritious Choice: Packed with fresh produce and healthy fats, this salad is both filling and nutritious.
- Make-Ahead Dressing: The vinaigrette can be prepared days in advance, making meal prep a breeze.
Tools and Preparation
To create your Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Jar with lid
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork (optional for dressing)
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Jar with lid: Ideal for shaking the dressing thoroughly to combine all ingredients smoothly.
- Large mixing bowl: Provides enough space to toss all the salad ingredients without spilling.
- Knife: Essential for cutting apples and other ingredients evenly.
Ingredients
For this Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette, gather the following:
For the Dressing
- 2/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (sub: honey)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
For the Salad
- 8 cups crisp Romaine or Green Leaf lettuce, chopped (approximately 1 head of lettuce)
- 2 medium tart red apples, cored and diced (do not peel) (recommended: Fuji or Honeycrisp)
- 1 cup dried cranberries (sub: fresh pomegranate seeds)
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted (see Cooking Notes)
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (try baking it ahead of time)
- 4 ounces crumbled feta cheese (sub: Gorgonzola crumbles)
How to Make Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
- Add all the dressing ingredients to a jar with a lid.
- Seal the jar tightly and shake vigorously until well combined.
- You can make this dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all the salad ingredients: chopped lettuce, diced apples, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, crumbled bacon, and feta cheese.
- Lightly drizzle about 2/3rds of the dressing over the top.
- Gently toss all ingredients together until well coated.
- Serve immediately with any remaining dressing on the side for guests to add as desired.
How to Serve Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette
This Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette is versatile and perfect for various occasions. Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering, here are some delightful serving suggestions.
As a Main Dish
- Pair it with grilled chicken or salmon for a heartier meal that balances flavors well.
With Soup
- Serve alongside a warm butternut squash soup to complement the salad’s freshness and add warmth to your meal.
On a Buffet Table
- This salad makes an excellent addition to any buffet. Its vibrant colors and textures will attract guests and enhance the spread.
For Meal Prep
- Prepare individual servings in mason jars for easy grab-and-go lunches during busy weeks. Just add the dressing when ready to eat!
How to Perfect Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette
To elevate your Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh greens and crisp apples will enhance the overall taste and texture of the salad.
- Customize the toppings: Feel free to swap out dried cranberries for fresh pomegranate seeds or add walnuts for extra crunch.
- Adjust the vinaigrette: Taste and modify the sweetness or acidity of the dressing according to your preference by adding more maple syrup or vinegar.
- Chill before serving: Letting the salad chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve immediately: For best results, serve right after tossing to keep the greens crisp.
Best Side Dishes for Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette
Pairing side dishes with this Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy on the outside, tender inside, these flavorful sprouts complement the salad.
- Sweet Potato Wedges: Baked sweet potato wedges provide a sweet contrast that pairs wonderfully with tangy vinaigrette.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf adds protein and texture, making it an ideal match for this salad.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft garlic breadsticks offer a comforting side that balances out lighter dishes.
- Stuffed Acorn Squash: Filled with grains and nuts, this dish adds seasonal flair and heartiness.
- Creamy Potato Salad: A classic favorite, creamy potato salad contrasts nicely with the fresh elements of your autumn salad.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making an Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette can be simple and delightful, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using the wrong type of greens: Choosing wilted or overly bitter greens can ruin your salad. Opt for fresh Romaine or Green Leaf lettuce for the best flavor.
- Skipping the toasting step: Not toasting the pecans can lead to a lack of crunch and flavor. Toast them before adding to enhance their taste and texture.
- Overdressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can overwhelm the other ingredients. Start with less and add more as needed to keep it balanced.
- Neglecting ingredient quality: Using low-quality apples or bacon can impact the overall taste. Select fresh, crisp apples and high-quality bacon for a superior salad.
- Making the dressing too early: If you prepare your dressing too far in advance, its flavors may dull. Make it just before serving for maximum freshness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 2 days in the fridge but is best enjoyed fresh.
Freezing Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette
- Freezing is not recommended as it may affect the texture of the greens and fruits.
- You can freeze leftover dressing separately for up to 3 months.
Reheating Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm salad briefly without wilting greens.
- Microwave: Heat gently in short bursts, stirring occasionally; avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Warm in a pan over low heat, stirring frequently, until just heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making an Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette.
Can I use different kinds of lettuce?
Yes! Feel free to mix in other types like spinach or arugula for variety in flavor and texture.
What can I substitute for pecans?
You can use walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nutty flavor in your Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette.
How long does the vinaigrette last?
The vinaigrette can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Shake well before using.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat, ensuring freshness.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Certainly! Grilled chicken or chickpeas would be great additions for extra protein.
Final Thoughts
This Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette is not just a feast for your eyes; it’s also packed with flavor and nutrients. Its combination of crisp greens, sweet apples, and savory bacon makes it versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it uniquely yours!
Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6 people 1x
Description
Experience the vibrant flavors of fall with this Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette. Bursting with a delightful combination of crisp greens, tart apples, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans, this salad is perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, casual dinners, or as a healthy lunch option. The homemade apple cider vinaigrette adds a tangy-sweet finish that elevates the dish to new heights. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can quickly whip up this nutritious and satisfying salad. Whether enjoyed as a main course paired with grilled chicken or presented as an eye-catching side on your buffet table, it’s sure to impress everyone at your table.
Ingredients
- 8 cups crisp Romaine or Green Leaf lettuce, chopped
- 2 medium tart red apples, cored and diced
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 4 ounces crumbled feta cheese
- 2/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- To make the dressing, combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a jar. Shake well until combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss together chopped lettuce, diced apples, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, crumbled bacon, and feta cheese.
- Drizzle about two-thirds of the dressing over the salad and gently mix until evenly coated.
- Serve immediately with any remaining dressing on the side.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No cooking required
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
