11 Festive Fall Salads for Entertaining

festive salads for entertaining

Roasted Butternut Squash Salad With Pepitas and Cranberries

roasted butternut squash salad

Roasted Butternut Squash Salad with Pepitas and Cranberries is a vibrant and hearty dish that embodies the flavors of fall. The combination of sweet roasted butternut squash, crunchy pepitas, and tart cranberries creates a delightful balance that makes this salad perfect for autumn gatherings or as a side dish for any meal.

Ingredients Quantity
Butternut squash 1 medium
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Pepitas (pumpkin seeds) 1/4 cup
Dried cranberries 1/3 cup
Fresh spinach or mixed greens 4 cups
Goat cheese (optional) 1/2 cup, crumbled
Balsamic vinaigrette 1/4 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Peel, seed, and dice the butternut squash into 1-inch cubes, then toss with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Spread the squash on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring halfway through.
  4. In the last 5 minutes of roasting, add the pepitas to the baking sheet to toast them.
  5. In a large bowl, combine the roasted butternut squash, toasted pepitas, dried cranberries, spinach or mixed greens, and goat cheese if using.
  6. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette, toss gently, and serve immediately. Enjoy your festive fall salad!
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Autumn Kale Salad With Apples and Cheddar

autumn kale salad delight

Autumn Kale Salad with Apples and Cheddar is a revitalizing and nutritious dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of the season. This salad combines hearty kale, crisp apples, and sharp cheddar cheese, topped off with a zesty dressing that enhances the fresh ingredients. Perfect as a light lunch or a side dish for fall gatherings, it celebrates the bounty of autumn.

Ingredients Quantity
Lacinato kale 6 cups, chopped
Granny Smith apple 1 large, sliced
Sharp cheddar cheese 1 cup, shredded
Walnuts (toasted) 1/2 cup
Dried cranberries 1/3 cup
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons
Honey 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped kale with the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper. Massage the kale for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes tender.
  2. Add the sliced apple, shredded cheddar cheese, toasted walnuts, and dried cranberries to the bowl.
  3. Toss the salad gently to combine all ingredients, and serve immediately. Enjoy your Autumn Kale Salad!
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Quinoa and Pomegranate Salad With Citrus Vinaigrette

colorful quinoa pomegranate salad

Quinoa and Pomegranate Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette is a rejuvenating and colorful dish that perfectly embodies the essence of fall. This salad features fluffy quinoa, juicy pomegranate seeds, and a medley of crisp vegetables, all brought together by a bright and zesty citrus vinaigrette. It’s a delightful option for a light meal or as a vibrant side at your autumn gatherings.

Ingredients Quantity
Quinoa 1 cup, uncooked
Water 2 cups
Pomegranate seeds 1 cup
Red bell pepper 1, diced
Cucumber 1, diced
Green onions 2, sliced
Fresh parsley 1/4 cup, chopped
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Fresh orange juice 1/4 cup
Fresh lemon juice 2 tablespoons
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water, then combine it with water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the water is absorbed. Let it cool.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, pomegranate seeds, diced red bell pepper, cucumber, green onions, and parsley.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, orange juice, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
  4. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss gently to combine. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy your Quinoa and Pomegranate Salad!
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Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad With Bacon and Feta

savory brussels sprouts salad

Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad with Bacon and Feta is a comforting and savory dish that highlights the robust flavors of fall. This salad combines crispy Brussels sprouts sautéed with smoky bacon and creamy feta cheese, topped with a tangy dressing that enhances the natural sweetness of the sprouts. It’s a perfect side dish for your autumn meals or a hearty lunch option.

Ingredients Quantity
Brussels sprouts 1 pound, halved
Bacon 6 slices
Feta cheese 1/2 cup, crumbled
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Fresh parsley 1/4 cup, chopped

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and crumble when cooled, leaving the grease in the skillet.
  2. Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet and sauté for about 8-10 minutes until golden and tender. Add minced garlic during the last minute of cooking.
  3. Remove from heat and drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Toss in the crumbled bacon, feta cheese, salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley.
  4. Serve warm and enjoy your Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad with Bacon and Feta!
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Spinach and Fall Fruit Salad With Maple Dressing

autumn fruit salad delight

Spinach and Fall Fruit Salad with Maple Dressing is a delightful and invigorating dish that captures the essence of autumn. This vibrant salad features tender spinach leaves, an array of seasonal fruits, crunchy nuts, and a sweet maple dressing that perfectly balances the flavors. It’s a great choice for a light lunch or as a colorful side for your fall gatherings.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh spinach 6 cups, washed
Apples 1, thinly sliced
Pears 1, thinly sliced
Dried cranberries 1/2 cup
Walnuts (or pecans) 1/2 cup, chopped
Feta cheese 1/3 cup, crumbled
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Maple syrup 2 tablespoons
Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the fresh spinach, sliced apples, sliced pears, dried cranberries, and chopped walnuts.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
  3. Drizzle the maple dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  4. Top the salad with crumbled feta cheese before serving. Enjoy your Spinach and Fall Fruit Salad with Maple Dressing!
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Harvest Chicken Salad With Pumpkin Seeds and Goat Cheese

hearty harvest chicken salad

Harvest Chicken Salad with Pumpkin Seeds and Goat Cheese is a hearty and flavorful dish that embodies the spirit of the harvest season. Packed with protein from the chicken, nutty flavors from pumpkin seeds, and a creamy touch of goat cheese, this salad makes for a satisfying meal or a perfect addition to your fall table.

Ingredients Quantity
Cooked chicken breast, diced 2 cups
Mixed greens (arugula, kale) 6 cups
Cherry tomatoes, halved 1 cup
Cucumber, diced 1
Pumpkin seeds 1/2 cup
Goat cheese, crumbled 1/3 cup
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons
Honey 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large bowl, combine diced chicken, mixed greens, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and pumpkin seeds.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients.
  4. Top with crumbled goat cheese before serving. Enjoy your Harvest Chicken Salad with Pumpkin Seeds and Goat Cheese!
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Sweet Potato and Black Bean Salad With Avocado

vibrant sweet potato salad

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Salad with Avocado is a delightful, nutritious dish perfect for the fall season. This vibrant salad combines the earthy sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, protein-packed black beans, creamy avocado, and a zesty lime dressing, making it a wholesome meal option or a colorful side dish for any festive gathering.

Ingredients Quantity
Sweet potatoes, peeled and diced 2 cups
Black beans, drained and rinsed 1 can (15 oz)
Avocado, diced 1
Red bell pepper, diced 1
Red onion, diced 1/2
Fresh cilantro, chopped 1/4 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Lime juice 2 tablespoons
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the diced sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, diced avocado, red bell pepper, red onion, and fresh cilantro.
  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil and lime juice. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving. Enjoy your Sweet Potato and Black Bean Salad with Avocado!
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Apple Cabbage Slaw With Honey Mustard Dressing

crisp apple cabbage salad

Apple Cabbage Slaw with Honey Mustard Dressing is a rejuvenating and crunchy salad that perfectly combines the sweetness of crisp apples with the satisfying crunch of cabbage. This vibrant dish is easy to prepare and makes an excellent side for any fall meal or festive gathering, showcasing the seasonal flavors and colors of autumn.

Ingredients Quantity
Green cabbage, shredded 4 cups
Apples, cored and thinly sliced 2
Carrots, grated 1 cup
Red onion, thinly sliced 1/2 small
Fresh parsley, chopped 1/4 cup
Honey 2 tablespoons
Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon
Apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, sliced apples, grated carrots, red onion, and parsley.
  2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  3. Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
  4. Let the slaw sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy your Apple Cabbage Slaw with Honey Mustard Dressing!
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Moroccan Carrot and Chickpea Salad With Spices

moroccan carrot chickpea salad

Moroccan Carrot and Chickpea Salad with Spices is a vibrant and flavorful dish that embodies the warm, aromatic spices of Moroccan cuisine. This satisfying salad features tender carrots and protein-packed chickpeas, combined with a zesty dressing and fresh herbs. It’s not only a delightful addition to your fall gatherings but also a revitalizing option packed with nutrients and color.

Ingredients Quantity
Carrots, grated 4 large
Canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained 1 can (15 oz)
Fresh parsley, chopped 1/2 cup
Fresh cilantro, chopped 1/4 cup
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Lemon juice 2 tablespoons
Ground cumin 1 teaspoon
Ground coriander 1 teaspoon
Paprika 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Optional: toasted almonds or seeds for garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the grated carrots and drained chickpeas.
  2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
  3. Pour the dressing over the carrot and chickpea mixture and toss to coat evenly.
  4. Gently fold in the chopped parsley and cilantro.
  5. Allow the salad to sit for 10 minutes to let the flavors develop before serving. Garnish with toasted almonds or seeds if desired. Enjoy your Moroccan Carrot and Chickpea Salad!
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Beet Salad With Arugula and Walnuts

nutritious beet salad recipe

Beet Salad with Arugula and Walnuts is a delightful and nutritious dish that combines the earthiness of roasted beets with the peppery bite of arugula and the rich crunch of walnuts. This vibrant salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with vitamins, making it a perfect addition to your fall table.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh beets, roasted 4 medium
Arugula 4 cups
Walnuts, toasted 1/2 cup
Goat cheese, crumbled 1/2 cup
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Optional: fresh thyme for garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap the beets in foil and roast for about 45-60 minutes until tender. Let them cool, peel, and slice.
  2. In a large salad bowl, combine the arugula and sliced roasted beets.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
  4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad, and toss gently to combine.
  5. Top with toasted walnuts and crumbled goat cheese. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your Beet Salad with Arugula and Walnuts!

Farro Salad With Roasted Vegetables and Balsamic Glaze

hearty farro vegetable salad

Farro Salad with Roasted Vegetables and Balsamic Glaze is a hearty and flavorful autumn dish that celebrates seasonal produce. Combining the chewy texture of farro with an array of roasted vegetables, this salad is elevated with a rich balsamic glaze, making it a perfect centerpiece for any fall gathering or a nutritious side dish.

Ingredients Quantity
Farro 1 cup
Vegetable broth or water 3 cups
Bell peppers, diced 1 cup
Zucchini, diced 1 cup
Carrots, diced 1 cup
Red onion, sliced 1 medium
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Balsamic glaze 1/4 cup
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) 1/4 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the diced bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and red onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized.
  2. While the vegetables roast, rinse the farro and then cook it in vegetable broth or water according to package instructions, typically about 25-30 minutes, until tender. Drain any excess liquid.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked farro with the roasted vegetables. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the mixture and stir to combine thoroughly.
  4. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy your Farro Salad with Roasted Vegetables and Balsamic Glaze!

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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.