Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette
Crisp and refreshing, this Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette is perfect for any occasion. The combination of tart apples, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans creates a delightful balance of flavors. This salad not only makes a stunning centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table but also adds a touch of fall to your everyday meals. With the bonus of a homemade apple cider vinaigrette, this dish truly stands out!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
- Flavorful Ingredients: Enjoy the wonderful blend of sweet, tart, and savory elements that elevate your dining experience.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for holiday feasts or light lunches, it fits various occasions effortlessly.
- Nutritious Choice: Packed with fresh produce and healthy fats, this salad supports a balanced diet while tasting great.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the dressing in advance to save time on busy days.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Jar with lid
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Jar with lid: Ideal for shaking up the vinaigrette ingredients effortlessly.
- Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to mix all salad components without spills.
- Cutting board: Protects your countertops when chopping ingredients like apples and lettuce.
Ingredients
Crisp greens are topped with tart apples, sweet dried cranberries, feta cheese, toasted pecans, and crispy bacon in this Autumn Salad. Finish off with our sweet and tangy Apple Cider Vinaigrette.
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 combined.
- You can make this dressing ahead of time; it stores well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine all salad ingredients except for the dressing.
- Lightly drizzle about 2/3rds of the prepared dressing over the top.
- Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Serve immediately with extra dressing on the side for drizzling as desired.
Enjoy your delicious Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette!
How to Serve Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette
This Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette is versatile and can be served in various ways. It makes a delightful main dish or a refreshing side that complements many meals. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
As a Main Course
- Serve it with grilled chicken for added protein.
- Pair it with quinoa or farro for a hearty meal.
As a Side Dish
- Offer it alongside roasted turkey during Thanksgiving for a festive touch.
- Complement it with a warm, crusty bread to soak up the vinaigrette.
In Individual Portions
- Serve in mason jars for a picnic or lunch on-the-go.
- Create individual salad bowls at parties for easy serving.
With Additional Proteins
- Top with sliced steak or shrimp for an upscale twist.
- Add chickpeas for a vegetarian protein boost.
How to Perfect Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette
To make your Autumn Salad even more delightful, consider these tips. Perfecting the balance of flavors and textures will elevate your dish.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lettuce and seasonal apples enhance flavor and crunch.
- Toast the pecans: Toasting adds depth and richness to the salad.
- Chill the dressing: Cooling the vinaigrette enhances its tangy flavor and makes it refreshing.
- Mix textures: Combine crunchy nuts, soft cheese, and crisp greens for an enjoyable bite.
Best Side Dishes for Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette
Pairing this salad with complementary side dishes can create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs well with the tartness of the salad.
- Butternut Squash Soup: A warm, creamy soup balances the crisp salad beautifully.
- Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts add a savory element that enhances the overall meal.
- Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty grain provides additional texture and fiber to your plate.
- Garlic Bread: A classic choice that works well to soak up any extra vinaigrette.
- Herbed Rice: Fragrant rice infused with herbs complements the flavors of the salad nicely.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms add an elegant touch to your dinner spread.
- Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: Creamy potatoes are always a crowd-pleaser alongside salads.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making an Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette, avoid these common missteps to ensure a delicious dish.
- Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using wilted or old greens will ruin the salad’s freshness. Always choose crisp, vibrant lettuce.
- Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much dressing can overpower flavors. Start with less and add more as needed for balance.
- Neglecting Texture Variety: A lack of different textures can make the salad boring. Incorporate crunchy nuts and crispy bacon for interest.
- Forgetting to Taste: Not tasting before serving may result in unbalanced flavors. Adjust seasoning after mixing to ensure satisfaction.
- Using Wrong Apples: Choosing apples that are not tart can lead to a bland taste. Opt for Fuji or Honeycrisp for the best flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
- Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Separate the dressing if possible to maintain freshness.
Freezing Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette
- It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to texture changes.
- Fresh ingredients do not hold up well once frozen.
Reheating Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm the salad briefly without overcooking it.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
- Stovetop: Warm on low heat while stirring gently, ensuring not to overcook the greens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making an Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette.
Can I customize my Autumn Salad?
Yes! Feel free to add your favorite nuts, seeds, or even grilled chicken for added protein.
How long does the Apple Cider Vinaigrette last?
The vinaigrette can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days when sealed in a jar.
What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?
You can substitute apple cider vinegar with white wine vinegar for a different yet pleasant taste.
Is this recipe suitable for Thanksgiving?
Absolutely! This Autumn Salad makes a delightful and refreshing addition to any Thanksgiving feast.
Final Thoughts
This Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette is perfect for fall gatherings or cozy dinners at home. Its vibrant colors and flavors make it visually appealing and satisfying. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients, from roasted squash to fresh herbs, making it truly your own!
Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette is a crisp and vibrant dish that captures the essence of fall. Featuring a delightful mix of tart apples, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, and tangy feta cheese, this salad is both visually stunning and bursting with flavor. The homemade apple cider vinaigrette adds a sweet and tangy kick that elevates this salad to new heights. Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings or as a refreshing addition to your everyday meals, this salad is not only nutritious but also incredibly easy to prepare. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can create a dish that impresses both friends and family.
Ingredients
- Crisp Romaine or Green Leaf lettuce
- Tart red apples (Fuji or Honeycrisp)
- Dried cranberries
- Toasted pecans
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Cooked bacon
- Homemade apple cider vinaigrette
Instructions
- In a jar with a lid, combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Seal tightly and shake well.
- In a large mixing bowl, add chopped lettuce, diced apples, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, crumbled bacon, and feta cheese.
- Drizzle 2/3 of the prepared dressing over the salad. Toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately with extra 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: 260
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
