Hearty Fall Salads: Nutritious and Delicious Seasonal Recipes
Discover a collection of hearty fall salads that are both nutritious and delicious, featuring seasonal recipes perfect for your autumn table.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- Salad Base
- Kale: 4 cups chopped
- Spinach or Arugula: 2 cups mixed in
- Quinoa or Farro: 1 cup cooked and cooled
- Sweet Potatoes: 2 medium peeled and cubed
- Butternut Squash: 2 cups cubed
- Beets: 2 medium roasted and sliced
- Apples or Pears: 1 large thinly sliced
- Pomegranate Seeds: ½ cup
- Dried Cranberries: ½ cup
- Walnuts or Pecans: ½ cup toasted
- Proteins Optional
- Grilled Chicken Breast: 2 sliced
- Chickpeas: 1 can drained and roasted
- Goat Cheese or Feta: ½ cup crumbled
- Dressing Options
Maple Vinaigrette:
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tahini Lemon Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey optional
- Water to thin if necessary
Instructions
Directions
Prepare the Vegetables:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cubed sweet potatoes and butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and golden. Roast beets separately if using.
Cook the Grains:
- Prepare quinoa or farro according to package instructions. Allow it to cool before adding to the salad.
Assemble the Salad Base:
- In a large salad bowl, combine kale, spinach, or arugula. Massage the kale with a small drizzle of olive oil to soften it.
Add Toppings:
- Layer roasted vegetables, grains, apples or pears, pomegranate seeds, dried cranberries, and toasted nuts over the greens. Add protein like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or cheese, if desired.
Make the Dressing:
- Whisk together your chosen dressing ingredients in a small bowl or shake in a jar until well combined.
Toss and Serve:
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
These salads are perfect as a side dish or a standalone meal, packed with the vibrant flavors of the fall season.