Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

If you’re looking for a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly captures the essence of fall, this Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette is just what you need! With its crisp greens, tart apples, and sweet dried cranberries, it’s like a burst of autumn on your plate. This salad is a real crowd-pleaser, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or simply to spice up those busy weeknights when you need something healthy yet delicious.

What I love most about this recipe is how quick and easy it is to whip up. You can prepare it in just 15 minutes, which means more time to enjoy with your loved ones. Plus, the homemade apple cider vinaigrette adds such a delightful flavor that you’ll want to drizzle it over everything!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 15 minutes, you can have this colorful salad ready to serve!
• Packed with flavor: The combination of sweet and tangy ingredients creates a taste sensation you won’t forget.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the dressing in advance and store it for up to three days—perfect for meal prep!
• Family-friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy the mix of textures and flavors in this autumn-inspired dish.
• Versatile ingredients: Use what you have on hand or swap out ingredients easily without losing the deliciousness!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette. Each component adds a unique touch, making this salad not only tasty but also visually appealing.

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 chopped Romaine or Green Leaf lettuce (approximately 1 head of lettuce per batch)
• 2 medium tart red apples (cored and diced; 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)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences or what’s available in your pantry. Here are some fun ideas to make this salad even more your own:

• Swap the protein: Try adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier option.
• Change up the nuts: Substitute walnuts or almonds if pecans aren’t your favorite.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some shredded carrots or sliced bell peppers for added crunch and nutrition.
• Make it vegan: Omit the bacon and feta cheese or use plant-based alternatives for a delicious vegan twist!

How to Make Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by combining all the dressing ingredients in a jar with a lid. Seal it tightly and give it a good shake! This method not only mixes everything perfectly but also allows you to store any leftovers in the fridge for later use. The dressing keeps well for 2-3 days, so feel free to make extra.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, add all your salad ingredients. This includes your chopped greens, diced apples, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, crumbled bacon, and feta cheese. Lightly drizzle about two-thirds of the dressing over everything. Toss gently until everything is well-coated—this ensures every bite bursts with flavor!

Step 3: Serve It Up

Once your salad is nicely tossed, serve it immediately! Place any remaining dressing on the side so everyone can add more if they like. Enjoy this delightful Autumn Salad as a perfect side dish or as a light meal on its own. Trust me; it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!

Pro Tips for Making Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

Creating the perfect autumn salad is all about balance, freshness, and flavor. Here are some pro tips to help you get the most out of this delicious dish:

• Use fresh ingredients: The crunch of fresh greens and the sweetness of ripe apples will elevate your salad’s flavor. Fresh produce not only tastes better but also provides more nutrients.
• Toast the pecans: Toasting nuts enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch. Simply place them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until they’re golden and fragrant—this simple step makes a big difference!
• Mix the dressing ahead of time: By preparing your Apple Cider Vinaigrette in advance, you allow the flavors to meld together beautifully. Plus, it saves you time on busy weeknights!
• Adjust sweetness to taste: The level of sweetness from the maple syrup or honey can be adjusted based on personal preference. Taste as you go to find that perfect balance between sweet and tangy.
• Add seasonal toppings: Feel free to get creative! Seasonal toppings like roasted butternut squash or pomegranate seeds can add new dimensions to your salad while keeping it festive.

How to Serve Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

This vibrant autumn salad is as visually appealing as it is delicious, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Here are some ideas on how to beautifully present this dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives can add a burst of color and freshness.
• Additional cheese: Crumbled goat cheese or shaved Parmesan can enhance the creaminess and overall flavor profile.
• Apple slices: Thinly sliced additional apples on top not only look beautiful but also reinforce the apple theme of the salad.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These caramelized bites are sweet and savory, making them a perfect complement to the crispness of the salad.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing touch and boosts protein content.
• Grilled Chicken Breast: For those looking for extra protein, serving grilled chicken breast alongside adds heartiness without overpowering the flavors of the salad.
• Vegetable Soup: A warm bowl of vegetable soup pairs wonderfully with this autumn salad, creating a cozy and satisfying meal experience.

Enjoy crafting this Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette — it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your fall recipe collection!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare the components ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep any leftover salad ingredients separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
• Store the vinaigrette in a jar in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
• Combine the salad only when you’re ready to serve to keep the greens crisp.

Freezing

• It’s best not to freeze this salad as fresh greens do not thaw well. However, you can freeze the vinaigrette for future use.
• To freeze, pour the dressing into an ice cube tray, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Use within 3 months.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat this salad, but if you prefer warm ingredients like bacon or pecans, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat before adding to the salad.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I make the Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette vegan?

Yes! To make it vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative and skip the bacon or replace it with crispy chickpeas.

How long does the Apple Cider Vinaigrette last?

The Apple Cider Vinaigrette can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Just give it a good shake before using!

What types of apples work best in an Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette?

Fuji and Honeycrisp apples are excellent choices due to their tartness and crisp texture, enhancing your autumn salad’s flavor.

Can I substitute any ingredients in this Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out feta cheese for Gorgonzola crumbles or use fresh pomegranate seeds instead of dried cranberries based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette as much as I do! It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the flavors of fall while keeping things fresh and healthy. Whether it’s for a cozy dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe is sure to please. Happy cooking!