11 Gourmet Fall Salads for Date Night

gourmet salads for date night

Roasted Butternut Squash and Kale Salad

roasted squash kale salad

This Roasted Butternut Squash and Kale Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish perfect for a romantic date night. The earthy flavors of roasted squash combined with the hearty kale and a zesty dressing create an elegant yet comforting salad that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients Quantity
Butternut squash 1 medium-sized
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon
Fresh kale 4 cups, chopped
Dried cranberries ½ cup
Feta cheese ½ cup, crumbled
Pumpkin seeds ¼ cup
Apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons
Honey 1 tablespoon
Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Peel and cube the butternut squash, then toss with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender and golden.
  3. In a large bowl, combine chopped kale, dried cranberries, feta cheese, and pumpkin seeds.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Drizzle over the kale mixture.
  5. Once the squash is done roasting, let it cool slightly, then add it to the salad and toss gently to combine.
  6. Serve immediately and enjoy your gourmet fall salad!
Sale
Fullstar The Original Pro Chopper - Vegetable Chopper and Spiralizer, Food Chopper with Container,...
  • The Original Pro Chopper - Our superstar veggie slicer has been creating waves on TikTok! Simple to use,...
  • Easy Meal Prep with Rust-Resistant Blades - Our vegetable chopper is perfect for anyone who wants to eat...
  • 5-Star Design - The soft-grip TPU handle ensures controlled chopping, while the non-skid rubber base...

Pomegranate and Goat Cheese Salad

vibrant pomegranate goat cheese salad

The Pomegranate and Goat Cheese Salad is an exquisite blend of sweet and tart flavors, making it a perfect addition to your fall date night menu. The vibrant red pomegranate seeds not only add a beautiful pop of color but also provide a juicy crunch that complements the creamy goat cheese. Toss in some mixed greens and a light vinaigrette, and you have a stunning salad that’s both invigorating and elegant.

Ingredients Quantity
Mixed greens 5 cups
Pomegranate seeds 1 cup
Goat cheese ½ cup, crumbled
Walnuts ¼ cup, chopped
Red onion ¼ cup, thinly sliced
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons
Honey 1 teaspoon
Salt ¼ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, pomegranate seeds, goat cheese, walnuts, and red onion.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
  3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  4. Serve immediately and enjoy this delightful, gourmet salad!
Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy...
  • Makes Everything Simple : Just forget your bagged cheese! Only turn the handle for several times and get...
  • Premium Material : All parts of the rotary cheese grater are made of food grade ABS material, no BPA. The...
  • Three Option Grater : The parmesan cheese grater finishes food preparation with slicing, shredding and...

Apple and Walnut Spinach Salad

crisp flavorful fall salad

The Apple and Walnut Spinach Salad is a delightful, crisp dish that embodies the essence of fall. Packed with nutritious spinach, crisp apples, and crunchy walnuts, this salad is not only visually appealing but also a fantastic mix of flavors and textures. Tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette, it’s a perfect starter for your romantic date night.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh spinach 6 cups
Apples (sliced) 2 medium
Walnuts (chopped) ½ cup
Feta cheese (crumbled) ½ cup
Red onion (thinly sliced) ¼ cup
Extra virgin olive oil 3 tablespoons
Fresh lemon juice 2 tablespoons
Honey 1 teaspoon
Salt ¼ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the fresh spinach, sliced apples, chopped walnuts, feta cheese, and red onion.
  2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
  3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients.
  4. Serve immediately and enjoy this invigorating and gourmet salad!
Chef Preserve Compact Vacuum Sealer for Food (Vacuum Sealer Machine + 30 Reusable Vacuum Bags)...
  • 💰 REDUCE WASTE AND SAVE MONEY: Chef Preserve keeps FOOD FRESH 5 TIMES LONGER than non-vacuum storage...
  • ✅ POWERFUL, QUICK & EASY TO USE: Simply press the button to start. The device vacuum seals a bag in 5...
  • ♻️ REUSABLE & RESEALABLE BAGS: Chef Preserve comes with dishwasher, freezer, refrigerator, and...

Quinoa and Roasted Vegetable Salad

hearty quinoa vegetable salad

The Quinoa and Roasted Vegetable Salad is a hearty and nutritious dish that celebrates the vibrant flavors of fall. Combining fluffy quinoa with a medley of roasted seasonal vegetables, this salad offers a satisfying meal that’s perfect for a date night. It’s not only packed with protein and fiber but also beautifully colorful, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

Ingredients Quantity
Quinoa 1 cup
Vegetable broth or water 2 cups
Sweet potatoes (cubed) 1 medium
Brussels sprouts (halved) 2 cups
Bell pepper (diced) 1 medium
Red onion (chopped) 1 medium
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper ½ teaspoon
Fresh parsley (chopped) ¼ cup
Feta cheese (optional) ½ cup
Lemon juice 2 tablespoons

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Cook the quinoa in vegetable broth or water according to package instructions, then fluff and set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, toss the sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, bell pepper, and red onion with olive oil, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Spread the vegetables evenly on the baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, roasted vegetables, chopped parsley, and lemon juice. Toss gently.
  6. Top with crumbled feta cheese if desired, serve warm, and enjoy a flavorful, wholesome salad that sets the tone for a lovely evening!
Sale
Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR), Versatile Cookware for...
  • Generous Capacity: 7-quart slow cooker that comfortably serves 9+ people or fits a 7-pound roast
  • Cooking Flexibility: High or low slow cooking settings, with convenient warm function for ideal serving...
  • Convenient: Set it and forget it feature enables you to cook while at work or performing daily tasks

Pear and Arugula Salad With Balsamic Glaze

fall inspired arugula pear salad

The Pear and Arugula Salad with Balsamic Glaze is a delightful and elegant dish that perfectly captures the essence of fall. Featuring sweet ripe pears, peppery arugula, and tangy balsamic glaze, this salad makes for a revitalizing and sophisticated starter that is sure to impress your date. The combination of flavors and textures creates a beautiful balance, making it an ideal complement to any fall-themed date night dinner.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh arugula 4 cups
Ripe pears (sliced) 2 medium
Crumbled goat cheese ½ cup
Walnuts (chopped) ½ cup
Balsamic glaze ¼ cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt ¼ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine fresh arugula, sliced pears, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped walnuts.
  2. Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic glaze over the salad, then season with salt and black pepper.
  3. Toss gently to combine all ingredients, ensuring everything is well-coated with the dressing.
  4. Serve immediately for a fresh, flavorful salad that will elevate your date night experience!
Sale
Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers BPA Free Airtight Lids Ideal for Lunch Meal Prep &...
  • 100% Leak-proof: Guaranteed no-spill seal and secure latches
  • Crystal-clear Tritan Built: Stain-resistant and odor-resistant material for a clear view of contents
  • Lightweight & Sturdy: Easy to carry, yet durable for everyday use

Warm Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Salad

warm brussels sprouts salad

The Warm Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Salad is a deliciously hearty dish that embodies the cozy flavors of fall while providing a satisfying twist perfect for date night. This salad combines the earthy taste of roasted Brussels sprouts with the savory crunch of crispy bacon, enhanced by the brightness of a lemon vinaigrette. It’s a warm and inviting starter that will make your dinner feel extra special.

Ingredients Quantity
Brussels sprouts (trimmed) 1 pound
Bacon (chopped) 4 slices
Red onion (thinly sliced) ½ medium
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon
Lemon juice 2 tablespoons
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper ½ teaspoon
Grated Parmesan cheese ¼ cup

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking sheet, spread out the trimmed Brussels sprouts and drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and tender.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove from heat and transfer to a paper towel to drain.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and a bit more olive oil (if desired) to make the vinaigrette.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the roasted Brussels sprouts, crispy bacon, and red onion. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the top and gently toss to combine.
  5. Top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving warm. Enjoy this warm salad that perfectly complements your fall date night!
Etekcity Food Kitchen Scale, Digital Grams and Ounces for Weight Loss, Baking, Cooking, Keto and...
  • 𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗪𝗲𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴: Supports 5 units...
  • 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘀: Accurately weighs up to 11 lb/5 kg with 1 g...
  • 𝗦𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲 & 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁: The small and sleek scale is a perfect fit for...

Harvest Grain Salad With Cranberries and Pumpkin Seeds

harvest grain salad recipe

The Harvest Grain Salad with Cranberries and Pumpkin Seeds is a vibrant and nutritious dish that celebrates the flavors of fall. This hearty salad combines a variety of wholesome grains with sweet and tart cranberries, crunchy pumpkin seeds, and a simple yet flavorful dressing. It’s a perfect centerpiece for a date night, offering a delightful balance of textures and tastes that reflects the season.

Ingredients Quantity
Quinoa (rinsed) 1 cup
Farro (cooked) 1 cup
Dried cranberries ½ cup
Pumpkin seeds ¼ cup
Baby spinach 2 cups
Red onion (finely chopped) ½ medium
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons
Honey 1 teaspoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon

Cooking Instructions

  1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions and let it cool. If using pre-cooked farro, verify it is heated or at room temperature.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, farro, dried cranberries, pumpkin seeds, baby spinach, and red onion.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
  4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine everything evenly.
  5. Serve immediately or allow it to chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes for the flavors to meld. Enjoy this wholesome salad on your cozy date night!
Sale
Alpha Grillers Meat Thermometer Digital - Instant Read Food Thermometer for Cooking and Grilling...
  • Instant Read Food Thermometer | Our instant read thermometer features a temperature probe and advanced,...
  • Multi-Use | From bbq thermometer to baking thermometer, our digital food thermometer for cooking is...
  • Easy-Read Digital Thermometer For Cooking | Large instant thermometer dial with bright blue backlight...

Beet and Citrus Salad With Feta

beet citrus feta salad

The Beet and Citrus Salad with Feta is a rejuvenating and visually stunning dish that epitomizes the essence of fall. This salad combines the earthy sweetness of roasted beets with the bright, zesty flavors of citrus fruits and the creamy, tangy notes of feta cheese. It’s a perfect starter for a romantic date night, offering a delightful combination of flavors that are both invigorating and comforting.

Ingredients Quantity
Beets (roasted) 2 medium
Oranges (peeled and segmented) 2
Grapefruit (peeled and segmented) 1
Feta cheese (crumbled) ½ cup
Arugula (or mixed greens) 4 cups
Walnuts (toasted and chopped) ¼ cup
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Honey 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap beets in foil and roast for about 45 minutes or until tender. Allow to cool, peel, and slice.
  2. In a large salad bowl, combine arugula, roasted beet slices, citrus segments, and crumbled feta.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine all ingredients.
  5. Top with toasted walnuts before serving. This colorful salad is best enjoyed fresh on your romantic evening!
Sale
Home Hero 54-Piece Stainless Steel Kitchen Utensils Set - Heat-Resistant Nonstick Silicone &...
  • Versatile 54-Piece Collection: Elevate your kitchen with the Home Hero 54-Piece Kitchen Utensil Set, a...
  • Durable and Long-Lasting: Crafted from premium stainless steel, these kitchen utensils are designed to...
  • Perfect Holiday Gift: Delight your loved ones with this kitchen utensils gift set this festive season....

Wild Rice and Mushroom Salad

wild rice mushroom salad

The Wild Rice and Mushroom Salad is a hearty and earthy dish that celebrates the rich flavors of fall. This salad combines nutty wild rice with sautéed mushrooms and a medley of seasonal vegetables, creating a warm and satisfying option for a cozy date night. Topped with a light vinaigrette, this salad is not only nutritious but also beautifully textured and flavorful.

Ingredients Quantity
Wild rice 1 cup
Mushrooms (sliced) 2 cups
Onion (chopped) 1 medium
Celery (chopped) 2 stalks
Carrot (chopped) 1 medium
Vegetable broth 2 cups
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon
Fresh parsley (chopped) ¼ cup
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Rinse the wild rice under cold water and then combine with vegetable broth in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer covered for about 45 minutes or until tender.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions, celery, and carrots for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until browned.
  3. Once the wild rice is cooked, drain any excess liquid and add it to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables.
  4. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and season with salt and black pepper. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.
  5. Remove from heat, stir in chopped parsley, and serve warm. This delightful salad is perfect for setting the mood for a romantic night!
Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Straw, BPA-Free Sports Water Bottle, Great...
  • 24-ounce insulated stainless-steel water bottle with a FreeSip spout and push-button lid with lock
  • Patented FreeSip spout designed for either sipping upright through the built-in straw or tilting back to...
  • Protective push-to-open lid keeps spout clean; convenient carry loop doubles as a lock

Chilled Sweet Potato and Black Bean Salad

chilled sweet potato salad

The Chilled Sweet Potato and Black Bean Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that highlights the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes alongside the protein-packed goodness of black beans. This invigorating salad is perfect for fall date nights, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors with a zesty lime dressing. It can be prepared ahead of time and served chilled, making it an easy yet impressive option.

Ingredients Quantity
Sweet potatoes (diced) 2 medium
Black beans (canned, drained) 1 can (15 oz)
Red bell pepper (chopped) 1 medium
Red onion (finely chopped) ¼ medium
Fresh cilantro (chopped) ¼ cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Lime juice 2 tablespoons
Cumin ½ teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread diced sweet potatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for about 25-30 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized.
  2. In a large bowl, combine roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, chopped red bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pour over the salad, tossing gently to combine.
  4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy this colorful and tasty salad that’s perfect for your date night!

Honey-Maple Roasted Carrot and Chickpea Salad

warm sweet roasted salad

The Honey-Maple Roasted Carrot and Chickpea Salad is a warm and satisfying dish that combines the sweetness of roasted carrots with the protein and fiber of chickpeas. Drizzled with a delicious honey-maple vinaigrette and topped with fresh greens, this salad makes for an inviting centerpiece on your fall date night table. It’s a perfect blend of earthy and sweet flavors, providing a cozy and comforting dining experience.

Ingredients Quantity
Carrots (peeled and sliced) 4 medium
Canned chickpeas (drained) 1 can (15 oz)
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Honey 1 tablespoon
Maple syrup 1 tablespoon
Fresh parsley (chopped) ¼ cup
Mixed greens (for serving) 4 cups
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). On a baking sheet, toss sliced carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast for about 25 minutes until tender and caramelized.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and maple syrup. Add drained chickpeas to the roasted carrots, pour the honey-maple mixture over, and toss to combine. Roast for an additional 10 minutes.
  3. In a large bowl, arrange mixed greens and top with the roasted carrot and chickpea mixture. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm. Enjoy the symphony of flavors on your romantic evening!

Amazon disclaimer.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Follow:
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.