Fall Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

If you’re craving a refreshing yet cozy meal perfect for autumn, this Fall Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette is exactly what you need. Packed with crisp apples, crunchy nuts, fresh greens, and a tangy, sweet dressing, this salad offers a beautiful balance of flavors that celebrate the best of fall’s harvest. Whether you’re preparing a light lunch or a vibrant side dish, this recipe brings warmth and freshness to your table with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crisp and Refreshing: The combination of fresh greens and juicy apples delivers a satisfying crunch in every bite.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The apple cider vinaigrette provides the ideal mix of tangy and sweet to complement the salad’s ingredients.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes, this salad is a simple way to elevate your meal without any hassle.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and healthy fats, it’s a wholesome choice for a light yet filling dish.
• Seasonal Favorite: Embracing autumn’s bounty, this dish feels cozy and festive for fall gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, fresh ingredients is key. Each one adds texture, flavor, or vibrant color, making this Fall Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette a true celebration of autumn’s best flavors.

• Mixed Greens: Use a blend of baby spinach, arugula, and romaine for varied texture and fresh taste.
• Crisp Apples: Choose tart varieties like Granny Smith or sweet ones like Honeycrisp to suit your preference.
• Toasted Pecans or Walnuts: Adds a warm, nutty crunch that pairs beautifully with the apples.
• Cranberries or Pomegranate Seeds: Introduce a pop of color and tart sweetness that brightens up the salad.
• Feta or Goat Cheese: A creamy, slightly tangy element that balances the crisp fruit and greens.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: The star of the vinaigrette that offers both acidity and sweetness.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Provides richness and smoothness to the dressing.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: Natural sweeteners to balance the vinegar’s tartness.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds depth and a subtle kick to the dressing.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings for flavor enhancement.

Variations for Fall Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

Feel free to get creative with this recipe—switching up ingredients to fit your taste, dietary needs, or pantry options is easy and encouraged.

• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
• Different Nuts: Swap pecans for almonds or pistachios to change the nutty flavor profile.
• Cheese Alternatives: Use shaved Parmesan or omit cheese for a vegan version.
• Greens Variety: Substitute kale or Swiss chard for a more robust texture.
• Dressing Adjustments: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to bring out more fall flavors.

How to Make Fall Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

Step 1: Prepare the Vinaigrette

Start by whisking together apple cider vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until fully combined and smooth.

Step 2: Wash and Dry the Greens

Rinse your mixed greens thoroughly and spin or pat them dry to ensure your salad stays crisp and not soggy.

Step 3: Slice the Apples

Core and thinly slice your apples into bite-sized pieces, leaving the skin on for extra color and nutrients.

Step 4: Toast the Nuts

Lightly toast the pecans or walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant, then set aside to cool.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the greens, sliced apples, toasted nuts, cranberries or pomegranate seeds, and crumbled cheese.

Step 6: Toss with Dressing

Drizzle the apple cider vinaigrette over the salad, tossing gently to coat all ingredients evenly without bruising the greens.

Pro Tips for Making Fall Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

• Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher the greens and apples, the crispier and more flavorful the salad will be.
• Balance the Dressing: Taste the vinaigrette before tossing and adjust sweetness or acidity as needed.
• Toast Nuts Carefully: Keep an eye on the nuts while toasting to avoid burning and bitterness.
• Cut Apples Evenly: Uniform slices ensure consistent texture and easy eating.
• Dress Just Before Serving: Adding vinaigrette right before serving keeps the salad from wilting.

How to Serve Fall Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra chopped nuts, a few whole cranberries, or a pinch of freshly cracked black pepper can add an inviting touch to the final presentation.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with roasted root vegetables, warm butternut squash soup, or crusty bread to complete an autumn meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve it in a rustic wooden bowl for a cozy vibe, or layer ingredients in clear glass jars for an eye-catching presentation perfect for gatherings or meal prep.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover salad in an airtight container and store the dressing separately to maintain freshness. Combine just before eating.

Freezing

Since fresh greens and apples do not freeze well, it’s best to avoid freezing this salad. However, you can prepare and freeze the vinaigrette ahead of time.

Reheating

This salad is served cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is necessary. If adding proteins, warm them separately before serving.

FAQs

Can I use other types of vinegar in the vinaigrette?

Yes, while apple cider vinegar is preferred for its fruity tang, white wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar can be used as alternatives with slightly different flavor profiles.

Is this salad suitable for vegans?

Absolutely! Simply omit the cheese or replace it with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast to keep it plant-based.

How long does the salad stay fresh?

When stored properly with the dressing separate, the components can last up to two days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh the same day for optimal crunch.

Can I add cooked grains to make this salad more filling?

Yes, cooked quinoa, farro, or barley can be stirred in for added texture, nutrients, and heartiness.

What’s the best way to slice apples for this salad?

Thin wedges or crisp matchsticks work best to maintain crunch and allow for easy mixing with the greens.

Final Thoughts

This Fall Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette is a delightful homage to autumn’s bounty, offering layers of flavor and texture that are sure to brighten your meals. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing it with friends, this recipe is a fresh, wholesome way to savor the season’s best ingredients. Give it a try, and you just might find your new fall favorite.

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