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Autumn Glow Salad

Autumn Glow Salad
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Autumn Glow Salad is a vibrant and refreshing fall salad that combines a colorful medley of seasonal produce, including crisp mixed greens, tart apples, roasted butternut squash, dried cranberries, toasted nuts, and creamy cheese, all tossed in a sweet and tangy maple vinaigrette. Perfect for cozy meals or fall gatherings, this healthy and hearty salad celebrates the best of autumn’s bounty with rich flavors and nourishing ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 4 cups fresh mixed greens (spinach, arugula, kale)
  • 2 medium crisp apples (Granny Smith or Fuji), cored and thinly sliced
  • 3 cups roasted butternut squash, peeled, cubed, and roasted
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup toasted pecans or walnuts
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese

Maple Vinaigrette

  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Roast the Butternut Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and cube the butternut squash, then toss it with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway until it’s tender and caramelized.
  2. Prepare the Maple Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper until fully combined and smooth. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
  3. Chop and Assemble the Produce: Core and thinly slice the apples, wash and dry your greens thoroughly, and toast your nuts lightly in a dry pan to release their aroma and crunch. Set everything aside for the final assembly.
  4. Toss the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, roasted butternut squash, sliced apples, dried cranberries, and toasted nuts. Drizzle the maple vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  5. Add Cheese and Serve: Sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese on top for a creamy finish, then serve immediately to enjoy the fresh textures and flavors.

Notes

  • Use Fresh, Crisp Apples: Choose freshly picked, firm apples for the best balance of sweetness and crunch.
  • Don’t Overdress: Start with half the vinaigrette, toss the salad, then add more as needed to avoid soggy greens.
  • Warm the Squash Slightly: Adding squash that’s still a little warm enhances the salad’s comforting vibe.
  • Toast Nuts Right Before Use: Toasting the nuts in a dry skillet for 3-5 minutes boosts their flavor but watch closely to prevent burning.
  • Mix Greens Thoughtfully: Use a variety of textures such as tender spinach and peppery arugula for flavor complexity.

Nutrition

Keywords: autumn salad, fall recipe, butternut squash salad, healthy salad, maple vinaigrette, seasonal salad, gluten free, vegetarian

Find it online: https://eazyummy.com/autumn-glow-salad/