11 Fall Grain Salad Recipes for Healthy Lunches

Quinoa Salad With Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Kale

nutritious quinoa salad recipe

This vibrant quinoa salad is a wholesome, nutritious dish ideal for fall, combining roasted sweet potatoes with hearty kale and protein-packed quinoa. It’s perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish at dinner. Preparation time is around 30 minutes, and the difficulty level is easy, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 2 cups kale, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
  • 1/4 cup nuts (such as walnuts or pecans), chopped (optional)
  • Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a medium pot, rinse the quinoa under cold water. Add 2 cups of water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and water is absorbed.
  3. While the quinoa cooks, toss the sweet potato cubes in 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, and chopped kale.
  5. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and lemon juice, then toss everything together. If desired, add crumbled feta cheese and nuts for extra flavor and texture.
  6. Serve warm or at room temperature.

For ingredient substitutions, consider using farro or brown rice in place of quinoa for a different grain base. You can swap sweet potatoes with butternut squash or pumpkin, and kale can be replaced with spinach or Swiss chard.

Variations of this salad can include adding dried cranberries or apples for a touch of sweetness, or incorporating chickpeas or black beans for added protein and fiber. Feel free to experiment with different herbs such as parsley or cilantro for added liveliness.

For cooking tips, verify you rinse the quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove its natural coating, called saponin, which can impart a bitter taste. Additionally, mixing in the kale while the quinoa is still warm will help soften the leaves slightly.

To complement this quinoa salad, consider pairing it with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a rejuvenating sparkling water with lemon. For a non-alcoholic option, a chilled apple cider can enhance the fall flavors beautifully.

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Farro Salad With Apples, Walnuts, and Feta

autumn farro salad recipe

Farro Salad with Apples, Walnuts, and Feta is a delightful autumn dish that captures the seasonal flavors perfectly. This hearty salad combines chewy farro, crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, and creamy feta cheese, making it a nutritious option for lunch or dinner. With a preparation time of approximately 35 minutes and an easy difficulty level, it’s suitable for cooks of all abilities.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup farro
  • 2 medium apples, cored and diced (preferably sweet varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji)
  • 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a medium pot, bring 3 cups of water to a boil and add the farro. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes until the grains are tender but still chewy. Drain any excess water and set farro aside to cool.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the diced apples, chopped walnuts, and crumbled feta.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, pepper, and cinnamon (if using).
  4. Add the cooled farro to the fruit and nut mixture. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  5. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve at room temperature or chilled.

For ingredient substitutions, you can replace farro with barley or quinoa for a different texture. If you’re not a fan of feta, goat cheese or blue cheese can be used for a tangy twist. You can also swap the apples for pears or dried fruits like raisins or dried cranberries.

Variations of this salad can include adding roasted vegetables, such as sweet potatoes or butternut squash, or tossing in some leafy greens like spinach or arugula. Consider incorporating spices like nutmeg or swapping walnuts for pecans or almonds for a different flavor profile.

For cooking tips, verify that you rinse the farro before cooking to remove any dust or impurities. Keep an eye on the cooking time, as different brands and types of farro may have varying cooking durations, and overcooking can turn it mushy.

To complement this Farro Salad, consider pairing it with a crisp and invigorating apple cider or a glass of Chardonnay. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water infused with slices of fresh apple and a sprig of mint can enhance the salad’s flavors beautifully.

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Barley Salad With Cranberries and Brussels Sprouts

barley salad with cranberries

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup barley
  • 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Fresh thyme or parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Begin by cooking the barley according to package instructions. Typically, bring 3 cups of water to a boil, add the barley, and simmer for about 30-40 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside to cool.
  2. While the barley is cooking, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the halved Brussels sprouts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes until they are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked barley, roasted Brussels sprouts, dried cranberries, and nuts.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Pour the dressing over the salad and mix gently to combine.
  5. Garnish with crumbled feta and fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

For ingredient substitutions, you can replace barley with quinoa or farro for a different texture. If you’re not keen on feta, goat cheese or shredded cheese can be used instead.

Dried cranberries can be swapped for dried cherries or raisins, and nuts can be replaced with seeds for a nut-free option.

Variations of this salad can include adding roasted sweet potatoes for an extra layer of sweetness or incorporating various seasonal veggies like carrots or kale.

For added protein, consider mixing in chickpeas or shredded chicken.

For cooking tips, make sure to rinse the barley before cooking to remove any debris. If you find your Brussels sprouts are not browning as much as you’d like, broil them for the last 2-3 minutes of roasting for added crispness.

To pair with this Barley Salad, consider a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a rejuvenating herbal iced tea.

For a non-alcoholic choice, a sparkling water with a splash of cranberry juice and a twist of lemon complements the dish beautifully.

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Brown Rice Salad With Butternut Squash and Sage

brown rice salad recipe

Brown Rice Salad with Butternut Squash and Sage is a hearty and nutritious dish perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. With a preparation time of about 45 minutes and a moderate difficulty level, this salad combines the flavors of roasted butternut squash with the earthiness of sage and the wholesome goodness of brown rice.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup brown rice
  • 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves, chopped
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Cook the brown rice according to package instructions. Generally, this involves rinsing the rice, adding it to boiling water, and simmering for about 30-40 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
  2. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the diced butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the squash is tender and lightly caramelized.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked brown rice, roasted butternut squash, chopped sage, dried cranberries, and chopped pecans.
  4. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and apple cider vinegar, then season with salt and pepper. Gently mix to combine.
  5. Garnish with crumbled feta cheese if desired and serve warm or at room temperature.

For ingredient substitutions, you can substitute brown rice with quinoa or farro. If butternut squash is unavailable, sweet potatoes or acorn squash make excellent alternatives. For a dairy-free option, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese option.

Variations of this salad can include adding roasted beetroot for an extra layer of sweetness or incorporating leafy greens such as kale or arugula for added nutrition. You could also mix in protein sources like chickpeas or grilled chicken for a more filling meal.

When preparing this dish, a good tip is to dice the butternut squash into uniform pieces for even roasting. Additionally, to enhance the sage flavor, consider briefly sautéing the chopped sage in olive oil before adding it to the salad.

To pair with this Brown Rice Salad, opt for a light-bodied white wine like Pinot Grigio or a rejuvenating sparkling apple cider. For a non-alcoholic option, a herbal tea with notes of cinnamon and apple would complement the flavors of the salad beautifully.

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Millet Salad With Pomegranate Seeds and Spinach

nourishing millet salad recipe

Millet Salad with Pomegranate Seeds and Spinach is a vibrant and nourishing dish that beautifully showcases the flavors and colors of fall. With a preparation time of about 30 minutes and an easy difficulty level, this salad combines the nutty taste of millet with the crunch of pomegranate seeds and the crispness of spinach, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup millet
  • 2 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 2 cups baby spinach, washed and chopped
  • 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
  • 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the millet under cold water and drain it. In a saucepan, combine the millet and water (or broth) and bring it to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the millet is cooked and water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let it cool.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked millet, chopped spinach, pomegranate seeds, diced red onion, and toasted walnuts.
  3. Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the salad, then season with salt and pepper. Gently toss the salad to combine all ingredients evenly.
  4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.

For ingredient substitutions, quinoa can be used instead of millet for a gluten-free option, and you could replace spinach with arugula or kale for an added nutrient boost. If pomegranate seeds aren’t available, you might consider using dried cranberries or cherries for a similar sweet-tart contrast.

Variations of this salad could include adding diced cucumbers for extra crunch, incorporating feta cheese for creaminess, or tossing in sliced avocado for healthy fats. You may also experiment with adding herbs like mint or parsley for a fresh herbal note.

A great cooking tip is to verify you rinse the millet thoroughly to remove any bitterness before cooking. Additionally, to enhance the flavors, consider toasting the millet in a pan for a few minutes before boiling it, which brings out its nuttiness.

For drink pairings, consider serving this salad with a light white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a reviving sparkling water with a splash of lemon. For a non-alcoholic option, try pairing it with iced green tea or lemonade for a revitalizing complement.

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Couscous Salad With Roasted Beets and Goat Cheese

colorful couscous salad recipe

Couscous Salad with Roasted Beets and Goat Cheese is a colorful and delightful dish perfect for fall gatherings. This salad is not only vibrant in appearance but also packed with flavors and textures, combining the earthy sweetness of roasted beets with creamy goat cheese. With a preparation time of about 40 minutes and a moderate difficulty level, it’s a great choice for both casual meals and special occasions.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup couscous
  • 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 medium beets, roasted and diced
  • 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
  • 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
  • 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap each beet in aluminum foil and roast in the oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until tender. Once cooked, let them cool, then peel and dice.
  2. In a saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the couscous, remove from heat, cover, and let it sit for about 5 minutes, until absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked couscous, diced roasted beets, crumbled goat cheese, chopped walnuts, and parsley.
  4. Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad, then season with salt and pepper. Toss everything together gently to mix.
  5. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes to enhance the flavors.

For ingredient substitutions, farro or quinoa can be used instead of couscous for a different grain texture. If goat cheese isn’t available, feta cheese or a dairy-free cheese can be used for a similarly creamy effect. You could also use already pre-cooked beets for convenience.

Variations of this salad might include adding roasted sweet potatoes or butternut squash for added sweetness, incorporating dried cranberries or apples for an extra pop of flavor, or tossing in some arugula or spinach for more greens. You could also mix in some cooked chicken or chickpeas for added protein.

A key cooking tip is to roast the beets ahead of time to save time on the day you plan to serve the salad. If you’re peeling the beets, consider wearing gloves to avoid staining your hands, and roasting them with their skins on helps retain moisture and flavor. Additionally, allow the salad to sit for a bit after tossing to allow the flavors to blend harmoniously.

For drink pairings, this salad pairs beautifully with a light red wine, such as Pinot Noir, that complements the earthy notes of the beets. A rejuvenating sparkling water with a hint of lemon or a ginger-infused tea also makes for a lovely non-alcoholic option to enjoy alongside the dish.

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Bulgur Salad With Grilled Chicken and Autumn Veggies

bulgur salad with chicken

Bulgur Salad with Grilled Chicken and Autumn Veggies is a hearty and nutritious dish that celebrates the flavors of fall. This salad combines tender bulgur wheat with grilled chicken and seasonal vegetables, making it a satisfying meal with a preparation time of about 30 minutes and a medium difficulty level, perfect for both weeknight dinners and entertaining.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup bulgur wheat
  • 1 3/4 cups water
  • 2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced
  • 1 cup butternut squash, diced
  • 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Cook the bulgur wheat: In a pot, bring water to a boil, add bulgur wheat, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 12-15 minutes until the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let it cool.
  2. While the bulgur is cooking, preheat a grill or grill pan. Toss the diced butternut squash and halved Brussels sprouts with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill the vegetables until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
  3. Combine the cooked bulgur wheat, grilled vegetables, sliced grilled chicken, diced red bell pepper, and red onion in a large bowl.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Drizzle over the salad and mix well.
  5. Garnish with pumpkin seeds and fresh parsley before serving.

For ingredient substitutions, you can use quinoa or farro instead of bulgur for a different texture. If chicken isn’t available, grilled tofu or chickpeas can be great plant-based protein alternatives. Seasonal veggies can also be swapped; consider using roasted carrots or zucchini.

Variations for this salad might include adding fruits such as diced apples or pomegranate seeds for a touch of sweetness. You could also mix in feta or goat cheese for creaminess, or include grains like wild rice for a fuller texture. Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the autumn flavor profile even further.

A cooking tip is to prepare the bulgur in advance and let it cool fully before combining it with the rest of the ingredients to keep the salad light and invigorating. Additionally, you can grill extra chicken to use for meal prep throughout the week.

For drink pairings, this salad goes beautifully with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a revitalizing apple cider to complement the flavors of the autumn veggies. A light herbal tea could also make a lovely non-alcoholic option alongside this hearty dish.

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Lentil Salad With Carrots, Celery, and Parsley

nutritious lentil vegetable salad

Lentil Salad With Carrots, Celery, and Parsley is a wholesome and nutritious dish, perfect for fall gatherings or meal prep. This salad features protein-rich lentils paired with crunchy vegetables and fresh herbs, making it both filling and invigorating. The preparation time for this recipe is around 30 minutes, and it has a low difficulty level, making it accessible for cooks of all experience levels.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup green or brown lentils
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 cup carrots, diced
  • 1 cup celery, diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, diced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the lentils under cold water and place them in a pot with 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until tender. Drain any excess water and let cool.
  2. While the lentils are cooking, prepare the vegetables: dice the carrots, celery, and red onion, and chop the fresh parsley.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, diced carrots, celery, parsley, and red onion.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour this dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for an hour to let the flavors meld.

For ingredient substitutions, you can use canned lentils for convenience—just rinse and drain them before adding to the salad. If you prefer different vegetables, consider using bell peppers or cucumbers, and fresh herbs like thyme or cilantro can be excellent replacements for parsley.

Variations of this salad might include adding diced avocado for creaminess, cherry tomatoes for a pop of color, or crumbled feta cheese for an extra layer of flavor. You could also incorporate nuts like walnuts or almonds for added crunch and nutrition.

A great cooking tip is to prepare the lentils ahead of time and let them cool before mixing them with the vegetables and dressing. This guarantees that the salad remains crisp and vibrant. Additionally, feel free to make the dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator to save time.

For drink pairings, this lentil salad goes well with a light and invigorating white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a citrus-infused sparkling water for a non-alcoholic option. A herbal iced tea could also complement the fresh flavors of the salad nicely.

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Amaranth Salad With Pears and Maple Vinaigrette

nutty amaranth pear salad

Amaranth Salad With Pears and Maple Vinaigrette is a delightful and nutritious fall dish that brings together the nutty flavors of amaranth grain with the sweetness of fresh pears and a tangy maple vinaigrette. This recipe is perfect for a light lunch or as a side for dinner, with a preparation time of about 25 minutes and a low difficulty level, making it accessible for all cooks.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup amaranth
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 ripe pears, diced
  • 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the amaranth under cold water and combine it with 2 cups of water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes until the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled amaranth with the diced pears, chopped walnuts, dried cranberries, and feta cheese if using.
  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and pepper to create the vinaigrette.
  4. Pour the vinaigrette over the amaranth mixture and toss gently to combine all ingredients.
  5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

For ingredient substitutions, you can replace amaranth with quinoa or farro if desired. Other fruits like apples or pomegranates can be used instead of pears for a different sweetness. Additionally, the walnuts can be exchanged for pecans or almonds, and you can opt for goat cheese instead of feta.

Variations of this salad might include adding mixed greens or arugula for added invigoration, incorporating roasted vegetables such as sweet potatoes or butternut squash for extra heartiness, or using a different nut for texture, like pistachios or hazelnuts.

A great cooking tip is to make the amaranth ahead of time and allow it to cool completely before mixing it with the other ingredients. This prevents the salad from becoming mushy and keeps the textures vibrant. You can also make the vinaigrette a day in advance for a more developed flavor.

For drink pairings, this amaranth salad pairs well with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or an apple cider for a seasonal touch. A revitalizing herbal tea or even a sparkling water with a splash of lemon can also complement the flavors beautifully.

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Wild Rice Salad With Mushrooms and Green Onions

hearty wild rice salad

Wild Rice Salad With Mushrooms and Green Onions is a hearty and flavorful fall dish that blends earthy wild rice with the umami of sautéed mushrooms and the fresh bite of green onions. This dish is perfect as a main course or a side and takes about 30 minutes to prepare, making it a delightful addition to your autumn meal rotation.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup wild rice
  • 3 cups vegetable broth or water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini work well)
  • 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the wild rice under cold water and combine it with the vegetable broth or water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the rice is tender and has split open. Drain any excess liquid and let cool.
  2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they’re browned and tender, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the chopped green onions and cook for another 2 minutes.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled wild rice, sautéed mushrooms and green onions, dried cranberries, pecans, salt, and pepper. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and toss to combine.
  4. Serve the salad warm or at room temperature.

For ingredient substitutions, you can replace wild rice with brown rice or quinoa for a different texture. Other nuts like walnuts or almonds can be used instead of pecans, and any type of mushroom can be chosen based on your preference.

Variations of this salad might include adding roasted butternut squash for a hint of sweetness, incorporating spinach or kale for added greens, or swapping cranberries for raisins or pomegranate seeds to vary the flavor profile.

A great cooking tip is to make the wild rice ahead of time and let it cool completely before combining with other ingredients, as this guarantees the salad maintains a nice texture. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or parsley, to enhance the flavor.

For drink pairings, this wild rice salad pairs beautifully with a light red wine like Pinot Noir or a herbal iced tea. A revitalizing sparkling water with a splash of lemon can also serve as a perfect complementary beverage.

Teff Salad With Avocado and Cherry Tomatoes

nutritious teff salad recipe

Teff Salad With Avocado and Cherry Tomatoes is a nutritious and vibrant dish that showcases the unique flavors of teff, a tiny gluten-free grain. This salad is packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a satisfying meal or side option perfect for fall gatherings. The preparation time is about 25 minutes, and the dish is considered easy, even for beginner cooks.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup teff
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro) for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the teff under cold water to remove any debris. In a medium saucepan, combine the teff and water, bringing it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the teff is tender. Remove from heat and let it cool.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled teff, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
  3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to combine.
  4. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

For ingredient substitutions, feel free to use quinoa or farro instead of teff if you want a different grain base. Instead of cucumber, you can add bell peppers for an extra crunch, and you can swap red onion with green onions for a milder flavor.

Variations could include adding diced bell peppers for color, incorporating feta cheese for a creamy texture, or mixing in black beans for added protein and fiber. You might also consider tossing in some fresh spinach or arugula for extra greens.

A great cooking tip is to let the teff cool completely before combining it with other salad ingredients to maintain the brightness of the avocado and the texture of the vegetables. Additionally, consider adjusting the acidity by adding more lemon juice or even a splash of vinegar based on your taste preference.

For drink pairings, this teff salad goes wonderfully with a revitalizing cucumber mint lemonade or a light-bodied white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, try pairing it with a sparkling water infused with a hint of lime for a zesty lift.

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Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.