Crisp greens create the perfect base for this Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette, making it a delightful choice for any occasion. The combination of tart apples, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy pecans topped with crispy bacon offers a symphony of flavors that truly captures the essence of fall. This salad is not only a fantastic side dish for Thanksgiving but also a great way to enjoy seasonal produce throughout autumn.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delicious Flavor Combination: The mix of sweet, tangy, and savory ingredients creates a mouthwatering experience.
Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this salad in no time.
Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for holiday meals or as a light lunch on its own.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh produce and healthy fats from olive oil and nuts.
Make-Ahead Friendly: The dressing can be prepared in advance and stored for convenience.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette, having the right tools can streamline your preparation. Here’s what you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Jar with lid
Large mixing bowl
Knife
Cutting board
Measuring cups/spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Jar with lid: Ideal for mixing and storing the vinaigrette without mess.
Large mixing bowl: Provides enough space to toss all ingredients without spilling.
Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for your fruits and vegetables.
Cutting board: Protects your countertops while providing a stable surface for chopping.

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 Vinaigrette:

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 vinaigrette ingredients to a jar with a lid.
Seal the jar tightly and shake vigorously until well combined.
Store in the refrigerator if making ahead; it lasts 2-3 days.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine all salad ingredients except for the dressing.
Drizzle about 2/3rds of the prepared vinaigrette over the salad ingredients.
Toss gently to combine everything evenly.
Serve immediately with remaining dressing on the side for extra flavor.

Enjoy your vibrant Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette!

How to Serve Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

This Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette is a vibrant dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether for a casual lunch or a festive dinner, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

For a Festive Gathering

Family Style: Present the salad in a large bowl at the center of the table, allowing guests to serve themselves.
Individual Portions: Serve in small bowls or mason jars for an appealing individual presentation.

As a Side Dish

With Grilled Meat: Pair this salad with grilled chicken or steak for a balanced meal.
As Part of a Buffet: Include the salad on a buffet table alongside other dishes for an eye-catching addition.

For Meal Prep

Packable Lunches: Divide the salad into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
Potluck Favorite: Bring this salad to potlucks; it’s sure to impress and complement various main dishes.

Accompanying Drinks

With Sparkling Water: A refreshing sparkling water pairs well, enhancing the flavors without overpowering them.
Fall-Inspired Cocktails: Serve with apple cider cocktails or light white wines to bring out the autumn flavors.

How to Perfect Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

To ensure your Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette reaches its full potential, follow these helpful tips.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh greens and seasonal apples to enhance flavor and nutrition.
Toast Pecans Properly: Toasting pecans brings out their natural oils and adds crunch—just watch them closely to avoid burning.
Make Dressing Ahead of Time: Preparing the vinaigrette in advance allows flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier.
Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the maple syrup amount based on your sweetness preference; honey can also be used as an alternative.
Serve Chilled: Refrigerate the salad before serving for a crisp and refreshing taste.
Add More Color: Consider incorporating colorful veggies like bell peppers or carrots for extra visual appeal and nutrients.

Best Side Dishes for Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

Pair your Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette alongside these delicious side dishes for a complete meal. Each option complements the salad’s flavors while adding variety to your plate.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts seasoned with garlic add depth and richness.
Butternut Squash Soup: A warm, comforting soup balances the coolness of the salad beautifully.
Quinoa Pilaf: This protein-packed dish can include cranberries and nuts for added texture and flavor.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, warm breadsticks are perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing on your plate.
Stuffed Acorn Squash: Filled with grains and nuts, this dish echoes autumn flavors while being hearty and satisfying.
Baked Sweet Potatoes: Naturally sweet and nutritious, sweet potatoes pair wonderfully with the salad’s tangy vinaigrette.
Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses that contrast nicely with the salad’s ingredients, enhancing its overall appeal.
Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice flavored with herbs provides an excellent base that pairs well with any main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette, avoid these common pitfalls for the best results.

Using stale ingredients – Freshness is key! Always check your greens and fruits for quality before use.
Not balancing flavors – Ensure a mix of sweet, tart, and savory components. Adjust the dressing to achieve the right balance.
Overdressing the salad – Too much dressing can overwhelm the ingredients. Start with less and add more as needed.
Ignoring texture – A variety of textures enhances your salad. Incorporate crunchy nuts and crispy bacon alongside soft cheese.
Skipping prep time – Rushing through the preparation can lead to mistakes. Take your time to chop and mix ingredients properly.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Use within 3 days for optimal freshness.
Keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain crispness.

Freezing Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

Not recommended for freezing. The texture of greens will change once thawed.
If you have leftover dressing, it can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread bacon on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10 minutes.
Microwave – Heat in short bursts (15-20 seconds), stirring in between. Don’t overheat!
Stovetop – Warm bacon in a pan over low heat until heated through, being careful not to cook further.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette ahead of time?

You can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time but store them separately from the dressing. This keeps everything fresh until serving.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you’re not a fan of feta, Gorgonzola crumbles work well as a flavorful alternative.

How do I customize my Autumn Salad?

Feel free to add seasonal vegetables or swap fruits like pears instead of apples for variety based on your taste preferences.

Is this salad suitable for Thanksgiving?

Absolutely! This Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette makes a vibrant addition to any Thanksgiving table or fall gathering.

Final Thoughts

This Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it according to your tastes and seasonal availability. Try this refreshing dish at your next meal or gathering!

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Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

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Author: Amanda
Total Time: 0 hours
Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of fall with this Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette. This delightful dish combines crisp greens, tart apples, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy pecans, all topped with crispy bacon and tangy feta cheese. The homemade apple cider vinaigrette ties everything together beautifully, making it a perfect side for Thanksgiving or a light lunch any day. Quick to prepare and packed with seasonal produce, this salad not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers a nutritious boost. Serve it at your next gathering to impress family and friends with its colorful presentation and delicious flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

8 cups crisp Romaine or Green Leaf lettuce, chopped
2 medium tart red apples, cored and diced (recommended: Fuji or Honeycrisp)
1 cup dried cranberries
1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
4 ounces crumbled feta cheese
2/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

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Instructions

Prepare the dressing by mixing olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a jar with a lid. Shake well and refrigerate if making ahead.
In a large bowl, combine the chopped lettuce, diced apples, cranberries, toasted pecans, crumbled bacon, and feta cheese.
Drizzle about two-thirds of the vinaigrette over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine.
Serve immediately with the remaining dressing on the side for extra flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: N/A
Category: Salad
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: American