11 Hearty Fall Salads for Main Courses

fall main course salads

Roasted Pumpkin and Quinoa Salad

pumpkin quinoa salad recipe

Hearty Fall Salads are a perfect way to showcase the flavors of the season, and Roasted Pumpkin and Quinoa Salad is a delightful dish that combines the earthy sweetness of pumpkin with the nutty flavor of quinoa. This salad is not only visually stunning with its vibrant colors but also packed with nutrients, making it a satisfying meal or side dish for any fall gathering.

Ingredients Quantity
Pumpkin, cubed 4 cups
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon
Quinoa 1 cup
Vegetable broth 2 cups
Spinach 2 cups
Feta cheese, crumbled ½ cup
Pumpkin seeds ¼ cup
Balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons
Maple syrup 1 tablespoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and toss the cubed pumpkin with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
  2. While the pumpkin is roasting, rinse quinoa and cook it in vegetable broth according to package instructions.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, roasted pumpkin, spinach, feta cheese, and pumpkin seeds.
  4. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and maple syrup, then toss to combine and serve. Enjoy your hearty fall salad!
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Warm Lentil and Sweet Potato Salad

hearty sweet potato lentil salad

Warm Lentil and Sweet Potato Salad is a nourishing and comforting dish that captures the essence of fall. This salad features hearty lentils combined with roasted sweet potatoes, fresh greens, and a zesty dressing that elevates the flavors. It’s perfect as a filling meal on its own or as a side dish alongside your favorite protein.

Ingredients Quantity
Sweet potatoes, cubed 2 cups
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon
Lentils (green or brown) 1 cup
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Spinach or arugula 4 cups
Red onion, thinly sliced ½ cup
Apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons
Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon
Fresh parsley, chopped ¼ cup

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast on a baking sheet for about 25 minutes or until tender.
  2. In a pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil, add lentils, and simmer until tender, approximately 20-25 minutes. Drain any excess liquid.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the roasted sweet potatoes, cooked lentils, spinach or arugula, and red onion.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar and Dijon mustard, then pour over the salad and toss gently. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. Enjoy your warm lentil and sweet potato salad!
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Apple and Kale Salad With Maple Vinaigrette

autumn flavored apple kale salad

Apple and Kale Salad with Maple Vinaigrette is a delightful and seasonal dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of fall. This invigorating salad combines crisp kale, sweet apples, and crunchy nuts, all drizzled with a luscious maple vinaigrette that beautifully complements the ingredients. It’s a perfect side dish or a light main course that celebrates the bounty of autumn.

Ingredients Quantity
Kale, chopped 4 cups
Apples, thinly sliced 2 medium
Walnut or pecans, chopped ½ cup
Dried cranberries ½ cup
Feta cheese, crumbled ½ cup
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Maple syrup 2 tablespoons
Apple cider vinegar 1 tablespoon
Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create the vinaigrette.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped kale with sliced apples, walnuts or pecans, dried cranberries, and feta cheese.
  3. Pour the maple vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately, or allow it to chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes for the flavors to meld. Enjoy your Apple and Kale Salad with Maple Vinaigrette!
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Bratwurst and Brussels Sprouts Salad

bratwurst brussels sprouts salad recipe

Bratwurst and Brussels Sprouts Salad is a warm and hearty dish perfect for the cooler fall weather. This satisfying salad combines savory bratwurst, roasted Brussels sprouts, and a mixture of fresh greens, all topped with a tangy mustard vinaigrette. It’s an excellent choice for a filling meal that celebrates the flavors of autumn.

Ingredients Quantity
Bratwurst, cooked and sliced 4 links
Brussels sprouts, halved 2 cups
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Mixed greens (e.g., arugula, spinach) 4 cups
Red onion, thinly sliced ½ medium
Dijon mustard 2 tablespoons
Apple cider vinegar 1 tablespoon
Honey 1 teaspoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper and spread them on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes until golden and tender.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, roasted Brussels sprouts, sliced bratwurst, and red onion.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
  4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately for a warm, comforting fall salad experience!
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Spiced Chickpea and Farro Salad

hearty chickpea farro salad

Spiced Chickpea and Farro Salad is a nutritious and hearty dish that showcases the delightful flavors of autumn while packing in protein and fiber. This salad combines tender farro with seasoned chickpeas, roasted vegetables, and a zesty lemon-tahini dressing for a filling, satisfying meal that’s perfect for cozy fall evenings.

Ingredients Quantity
Farro 1 cup
Canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed 1 can (15 oz)
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Ground cumin 1 teaspoon
Paprika 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Sweet potato, diced 1 medium
Bell pepper, diced 1 medium
Red onion, chopped ½ medium
Baby spinach or kale 4 cups
Tahini 3 tablespoons
Lemon juice 2 tablespoons
Water 2-3 tablespoons

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the diced sweet potato, bell pepper, and red onion with olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
  2. Meanwhile, cook the farro according to package instructions, usually about 15-20 minutes; drain any excess water.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked farro, roasted vegetables, and chickpeas.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, water, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
  5. Drizzle the dressing over the salad, add the baby spinach or kale, and toss gently to combine. Serve warm or at room temperature for a delicious and satisfying fall salad.
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Moroccan Roasted Carrot and Beet Salad

roasted carrot beet salad

Moroccan Roasted Carrot and Beet Salad is a vibrant and earthy dish that embodies the warm spices and rich flavors of Moroccan cuisine. This salad combines the natural sweetness of roasted carrots and beets with a tangy dressing, providing a delightful contrast that makes it an excellent addition to any fall meal.

Ingredients Quantity
Carrots, sliced 4 medium
Beets, peeled and cubed 2 medium
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Ground cumin 1 teaspoon
Ground coriander 1 teaspoon
Cinnamon ½ teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped ¼ cup
Feta cheese, crumbled (optional) ½ cup
Lemon juice 2 tablespoons

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the sliced carrots and cubed beets with olive oil, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 30-35 minutes until tender and caramelized.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the roasted carrots and beets with fresh parsley.
  3. Drizzle with lemon juice and gently toss. If desired, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top before serving warm or at room temperature.
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Pomegranate and Butternut Squash Salad

pomegranate butternut squash salad

Pomegranate and Butternut Squash Salad is a festive and vibrant dish that combines the sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the tartness of juicy pomegranate seeds. This salad reflects the essence of fall, showcasing seasonal produce and fresh, bright flavors, making it a perfect addition to any autumn gathering or meal.

Ingredients Quantity
Butternut squash, peeled and cubed 1 medium
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Ground cinnamon ½ teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Pomegranate seeds 1 cup
Baby spinach or arugula 4 cups
Feta cheese, crumbled (optional) ½ cup
Balsamic vinaigrette 3 tablespoons

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, cinnamon, salt, and pepper, then spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the roasted butternut squash with pomegranate seeds and baby spinach or arugula.
  3. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and gently toss to combine. If desired, top with crumbled feta cheese before serving warm or at room temperature.
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Savory Mushroom and Wild Rice Salad

hearty mushroom wild rice salad

Savory Mushroom and Wild Rice Salad is a hearty and nutritious dish that combines earthy mushrooms with the nutty flavor of wild rice. This delightful autumn salad is not only filling but also showcases the rich flavors of the season, making it an ideal centerpiece for a cozy fall meal or a potluck gathering.

Ingredients Quantity
Wild rice 1 cup
Vegetable broth 2 cups
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Mushrooms, sliced 2 cups
Onion, chopped 1 medium
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Spinach, chopped 2 cups
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Walnuts, chopped (optional) ½ cup
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) 2 tablespoons

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a saucepan, combine wild rice and vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 45 minutes or until rice is tender. Drain any excess broth.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Then, add sliced mushrooms and cook until they are golden brown.
  3. Stir in the cooked wild rice and chopped spinach, cooking until spinach wilts. Season with salt and black pepper.
  4. Finish by folding in the chopped walnuts if using, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm.
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Tuscan Kale and White Bean Salad

nutritious kale bean salad

Tuscan Kale and White Bean Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that highlights hearty kale paired with creamy white beans, perfect for a revitalizing lunch or a satisfying side dish at any fall gathering. This salad is not only packed with flavor but also rich in vitamins and protein, making it an ideal addition to your autumn meals.

Ingredients Quantity
Tuscan kale, chopped 4 cups
Canned white beans, rinsed and drained 1 can (15 oz)
Cherry tomatoes, halved 1 cup
Red onion, thinly sliced ½ medium
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Lemon juice 2 tablespoons
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional) ¼ cup

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine chopped Tuscan kale, white beans, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to create a dressing.
  3. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine.
  4. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve immediately or let sit for 15 minutes for flavors to meld.
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Harvest Chicken Salad With Cranberries

harvest chicken salad recipe

Harvest Chicken Salad With Cranberries is a delightful autumn dish that brings together tender, roasted chicken with sweet and tangy cranberries, crunchy apples, and earthy pecans. This salad is not only hearty and satisfying but also reflects the warm flavors of fall, making it an excellent choice for lunches, picnics, or a festive dinner gathering.

Ingredients Quantity
Cooked chicken, shredded 2 cups
Fresh spinach 4 cups
Dried cranberries ½ cup
Apple, diced 1 medium
Celery, chopped 1 stalk
Chopped pecans ⅓ cup
Greek yogurt or mayonnaise ½ cup
Honey 1 tablespoon
Lemon juice 1 tablespoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, spinach, cranberries, apple, celery, and chopped pecans.
  2. In a separate small bowl, mix Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), honey, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
  3. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss to coat evenly.
  4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors develop.

Grilled Pear and Gorgonzola Salad

grilled pears with gorgonzola

Grilled Pear and Gorgonzola Salad is a sophisticated and flavorful dish that perfectly combines the sweetness of grilled pears with the boldness of Gorgonzola cheese. Topped with toasted walnuts and a light vinaigrette, this salad is an ideal choice for a light lunch or as a complement to a festive dinner. The warm, grilled flavors of the fall fruit add a delightful contrast to the creamy cheese, making each bite a savory treat.

Ingredients Quantity
Ripe pears 2 medium
Gorgonzola cheese ½ cup crumbled
Mixed greens 4 cups
Walnuts, chopped ¼ cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon
Honey 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Slice the pears in half and remove the cores.
  2. Brush the cut side of the pears with olive oil and place them on the grill, cut side down. Grill for about 3-4 minutes or until grill marks appear.
  3. While the pears are grilling, toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
  5. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, grilled pears (sliced), crumbled Gorgonzola, and toasted walnuts. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to combine.
  6. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

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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.