Chopped Autumn Salad Apple Cider Dressing is a true celebration of the season, capturing the vibrant colors and crisp flavors that autumn brings. As the leaves turn and the air cools, this delightful salad becomes a staple at many family gatherings and holiday feasts. It’s not just a dish; it’s a flavorful reminder of cozy evenings spent around the table with loved ones. The sweet and tangy apple cider dressing elevates the salad, making it a perfect companion to roasted meats or a stand-alone dish that shines on its own. People adore this specific recipe for its balance of ingredients and the way it encapsulates the essence of fall.
What Is Chopped Autumn Salad Apple Cider Dressing
Chopped Autumn Salad Apple Cider Dressing is a vibrant mix of seasonal produce, including crisp greens, crunchy apples, and toasted nuts, all brought together with a homemade apple cider dressing that ties everything together. The chopped nature of the salad allows for easy eating and a delightful mix of textures, from the crunch of the fresh veggies to the chewiness of dried fruits. While similar to other autumn salads, this recipe stands out because of its unique dressing, which adds a sweet yet tangy flavor that complements the earthy ingredients beautifully.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Loaded with seasonal flavors that celebrate autumn.
- Family-friendly and adaptable for various dietary preferences.
- Can be served as a side dish or a light main course.
How Does It Taste?
The flavor profile of Chopped Autumn Salad Apple Cider Dressing is a delightful dance of sweet and savory. The tartness of the apples harmonizes with the nutty flavors of the toasted pecans, while the crisp greens provide a refreshing crunch. The apple cider dressing adds a unique twist with its blend of sweetness and tang, perfectly balancing the richness of the other ingredients. With each bite, you’ll experience a medley of textures and flavors that evoke the warm nostalgia of fall.
Health & Ingredient Benefits
This salad boasts several key ingredients that contribute not only to its flavor but also to its health benefits. For instance, fresh greens are high in vitamins A and C, which boost your immune system. Apples are a fantastic source of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and keeping you feeling full. Nuts, like pecans or walnuts, provide healthy fats and protein, making this salad not just delicious but also nourishing. Lastly, the apple cider vinegar in the dressing can help regulate blood sugar levels and support weight management. Together, these ingredients create a dish that is as wholesome as it is flavorful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 cups chopped mixed greens – A blend of kale, spinach, and romaine adds a robust texture and flavor.
- 1 cup diced apples (any variety) – Fresh apples bring a sweet crunch, perfect for autumn.
- 1 cup chopped carrots – They add color, sweetness, and a satisfying crunch.
- ½ cup cubed butternut squash – Roasted for a warm, nutty flavor that complements the salad.
- ¼ cup dried cranberries – These provide a tart contrast to the sweetness of the apples.
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese – A creamy element that balances the salad with its tangy flavor.
- ¼ cup toasted walnuts – They add a nice crunch and richness to the salad.
- ⅓ cup apple cider – The base for the dressing, bringing a sweet and tangy flavor.
- ¼ cup olive oil – A healthy fat that helps to emulsify the dressing.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – Adds depth and a slight heat to the dressing.
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup – Enhances the sweetness naturally, perfect for autumn.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for balancing flavors.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large salad bowl – For mixing all the salad ingredients.
- Small bowl or jar with a lid – Ideal for shaking up the dressing.
- Whisk or fork – For blending the dressing ingredients.
- Knife and cutting board – For chopping the vegetables and fruits.
Optional Substitutions & Additions
- Greens: Use arugula or mixed spring greens for a peppery twist.
- Cheese: Swap feta for goat cheese or omit for a dairy-free version.
- Sweetener: Replace maple syrup with honey or agave syrup.
- Nuts: Pecans or almonds can be used instead of walnuts.
- Fruits: Add sliced pears or pomegranate seeds for added flavor and texture.
How to Make Chopped Autumn Salad Apple Cider Dressing
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by washing and thoroughly drying your mixed greens. Chop them into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large salad bowl. Next, dice the apples and chop the carrots, ensuring they are uniform in size for even distribution in the salad. If using butternut squash, peel and cube it before roasting.
Step 2: Roast the Butternut Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized, turning halfway through for even cooking. Once done, let it cool slightly before adding it to the salad.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, combine the apple cider, olive oil, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use a whisk or seal the jar and shake vigorously until well combined. The dressing should be smooth and slightly thickened.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In the large salad bowl with greens, add the diced apples, roasted butternut squash, chopped carrots, dried cranberries, crumbled feta, and toasted walnuts. Drizzle the apple cider dressing over the top, reserving a bit for serving on the side.
Step 5: Toss and Serve
Using tongs or salad forks, gently toss the salad until all ingredients are well combined and coated with the dressing. Serve immediately, with any remaining dressing on the side for those who prefer a little extra.
What to Serve With
This Chopped Autumn Salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or turkey for a hearty meal. It also complements roasted vegetables or a warm soup, like butternut squash soup, for a cozy dinner. For drinks, consider serving with sparkling apple cider or a light white wine.
Tips for Success
- Make sure your greens are dry before adding the dressing to prevent dilution.
- Adjust the sweetness of the dressing to your taste; add more maple syrup if you like it sweeter.
- Prep the ingredients in advance for a quick assembly at meal time.
- Feel free to play with the ingredient ratios based on personal preference.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using overly ripe or mealy apples can detract from the freshness of the salad.
- Skipping the roasting step for the squash may lead to a less flavorful dish.
- Not tasting the dressing before serving could result in an unbalanced flavor.
- Adding too much dressing at once can make the salad soggy; start with less and add more as needed.
How to Store & Reheat
Storing
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.
Reheating
If you need to reheat any roasted butternut squash, place it in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals until warmed through. Avoid reheating the salad itself, as it is best enjoyed fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, you can chop the ingredients and store them separately; just add dressing right before serving.
- Is this salad gluten-free? Yes, all the ingredients used are gluten-free.
- How can I make this salad vegan? Omit the feta cheese and use maple syrup in the dressing.
- Can I use a different type of vinegar instead of apple cider? While apple cider vinegar is recommended for flavor, you can use balsamic vinegar for a different taste.
Nutritional Info
This Chopped Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Dressing is approximately 250 calories per serving, with a good balance of macros: around 10 grams of protein, 15 grams of fat, and 25 grams of carbohydrates, depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used. It’s packed with nutrients and perfect for a healthy autumn meal!
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Chopped Autumn Salad Apple Cider Dressing is truly a delightful addition to your fall dining experience. This recipe captures the vibrant flavors of the season, combining crisp apples, roasted nuts, and fresh greens, all brought together by the tangy sweetness of the apple cider dressing. It’s a must-try for anyone looking to embrace the cozy and comforting essence of autumn in their meals. I love how this salad is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the wonderful taste of the Chopped Autumn Salad Apple Cider Dressing—you won’t be disappointed!
Chopped Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Dressing
Fresh, chopped Autumn salad with apple cider dressing has crunchy candied cinnamon pecans, apples, pears, bacon and feta cheese, all tossed in a sweet and tangy dressing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 6-8 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 red apple, diced
- 1 anjou (or bartlett) pear, diced
- 3-4 strips beef bacon, cooked until almost crisp, crumbled
- ½ red onion, chopped
- ⅓ cup dried cranberries
- ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ⅔ cup pecans, toasted
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- ⅓ cup apple juice
- ⅓ cup apple cider vinegar
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
-
Step 1
Combine all dressing ingredients in a jar, cover, and shake well. Set aside. -
Step 2
In a large bowl combine lettuce, apples, pears, beef bacon, onion, cranberries, and feta cheese. -
Step 3
Toast pecans in a medium pan over medium heat for 1-2 minutes. Add brown sugar and cinnamon, stirring until sugar dissolves and pecans are coated. Transfer to cool and roughly chop. -
Step 4
Pour dressing over salad and toss to combine. Serve immediately.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts
Per serving: ~350 calories. Based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Allergy Information
Always check labels for specific allergen information.
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