11 Quick Fall Lunch Salads

autumn inspired salad recipes

Roasted Sweet Potato and Kale Salad

roasted sweet potato salad

Roasted Sweet Potato and Kale Salad is a hearty, nutritious dish perfect for a fall lunch. Packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients, it combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the earthy taste of kale, topped off with a zesty dressing and toasted nuts for added crunch. This salad is not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes, making it a wonderful addition to any autumn meal.

Ingredients Quantity
Sweet potatoes 2 medium
Kale 4 cups, chopped
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Salt 1 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Maple syrup 2 tablespoons
Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon
Apple cider vinegar 1 tablespoon
Toasted pecans or walnuts 1/2 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and cube the sweet potatoes, then toss with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  2. Spread the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden and tender, stirring halfway through.
  3. While the sweet potatoes are roasting, prepare the dressing by whisking together the remaining olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the chopped kale with the roasted sweet potatoes once they are done. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
  5. Top with toasted pecans or walnuts before serving. Enjoy your delightful fall salad!
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Apple and Walnut Spinach Salad

nutritious fall spinach salad

Apple and Walnut Spinach Salad is a revitalizing and nutritious dish that embodies the flavors of fall. This salad combines crisp spinach leaves with sweet and tart apple slices, crunchy walnuts, and a light vinaigrette. It’s perfect as a light lunch or a side dish, bringing together seasonal ingredients for a delightful blend of textures and flavors.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh spinach 6 cups
Apples (any variety) 2 medium, sliced
Walnuts (toasted) 1/2 cup
Feta cheese (crumbled) 1/2 cup
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons
Honey 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Black pepper to taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the fresh spinach and sliced apples.
  2. Add the toasted walnuts and crumbled feta cheese to the bowl.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
  4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients.
  5. Serve immediately and enjoy your vibrant fall salad!
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Quinoa Salad With Butternut Squash and Cranberries

quinoa salad with squash

Quinoa Salad with Butternut Squash and Cranberries is a hearty and healthy dish that is perfect for a fall lunch. This salad combines protein-rich quinoa with roasted butternut squash, sweet dried cranberries, and a hint of fresh herbs. It’s a flavorful and filling option that highlights the vibrant ingredients of the season, making it a delightful choice for any table.

Ingredients Quantity
Quinoa 1 cup
Water 2 cups
Butternut squash (cubed) 2 cups
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper to taste
Dried cranberries 1/2 cup
Fresh parsley (chopped) 1/4 cup
Feta cheese (optional) 1/2 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes until tender.
  2. While the squash is roasting, rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a saucepan, combine the quinoa and water, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and all the water has been absorbed.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, roasted butternut squash, dried cranberries, and parsley.
  4. If desired, top with crumbled feta cheese for added flavor.
  5. Toss gently to mix and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your cozy fall quinoa salad!
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Harvest Chickpea Salad With Pomegranate

vibrant nutritious chickpea salad

Harvest Chickpea Salad With Pomegranate is a vibrant and nutritious dish that showcases the rich flavors of fall. This salad combines protein-packed chickpeas with crunchy vegetables, juicy pomegranate arils, and a zesty dressing, creating a revitalizing and satisfying meal perfect for lunch or as a side dish at gatherings.

Ingredients Quantity
Chickpeas (canned or cooked) 1 can (15 oz)
Red bell pepper (diced) 1
Cucumber (diced) 1
Red onion (finely chopped) 1/4 cup
Pomegranate arils 1 cup
Fresh parsley (chopped) 1/4 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Lemon juice 2 tablespoons
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper to taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Rinse and drain the chickpeas if using canned.
  2. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, diced red bell pepper, cucumber, red onion, pomegranate arils, and chopped parsley.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
  4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Enjoy your revitalizing harvest chickpea salad!
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Fall Farro Salad With Brussels Sprouts and Feta

nutty autumn farro salad

Fall Farro Salad With Brussels Sprouts and Feta is a hearty and flavorful salad that embodies the essence of autumn. This dish features nutty farro, roasted Brussels sprouts, creamy feta cheese, and crunchy nuts, making it a comforting yet nutritious choice for a light lunch or side dish during the cooler months.

Ingredients Quantity
Farro (dry) 1 cup
Brussels sprouts (halved) 2 cups
Feta cheese (crumbled) 1/2 cup
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Salt 1 teaspoon
Black pepper to taste
Chopped walnuts or pecans 1/4 cup
Lemon juice 2 tablespoons
Fresh parsley (chopped) 1/4 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Cook the farro according to package instructions; set aside.
  3. On a baking sheet, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes until golden and tender.
  4. In a large bowl, combine cooked farro, roasted Brussels sprouts, crumbled feta, chopped walnuts or pecans, lemon juice, and parsley.
  5. Toss gently to combine and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your fall farro salad!
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Maple Vinaigrette Spinach and Pear Salad

maple vinaigrette spinach salad

Maple Vinaigrette Spinach and Pear Salad is a delightful fall dish that combines fresh, peppery spinach with sweet, juicy pears and crunchy walnuts. Tossed in a homemade maple vinaigrette, this salad is perfect as a light lunch or as a rejuvenating side during autumn gatherings.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh spinach 4 cups
Ripe pears (sliced) 2
Walnuts (chopped) 1/2 cup
Crumbled blue cheese (optional) 1/4 cup
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Pure maple syrup 2 tablespoons
Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the vinaigrette.
  2. In a large salad bowl, combine fresh spinach, sliced pears, and chopped walnuts.
  3. Drizzle the maple vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  4. If desired, sprinkle crumbled blue cheese on top before serving. Enjoy your Maple Vinaigrette Spinach and Pear Salad!
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Warm Beet and Goat Cheese Salad

warm beet salad recipe

Warm Beet and Goat Cheese Salad is a comforting and vibrant dish that highlights the earthy sweetness of roasted beets paired with the creaminess of goat cheese. Served warm, this salad is not only tasty but also visually appealing, making it a great addition to any fall lunch. The combination of flavors and textures guarantees a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh beets 3 medium
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Arugula or mixed greens 4 cups
Goat cheese (crumbled) 1/2 cup
Walnuts (toasted, chopped) 1/4 cup
Balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon

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. Once cooked, let them cool, then peel and slice into wedges.
  2. In a large bowl, toss the arugula or mixed greens with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Arrange the roasted beets on top of the greens, sprinkle with crumbled goat cheese and toasted walnuts.
  4. Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the salad before serving. Enjoy your Warm Beet and Goat Cheese Salad!
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Cabbage and Apple Slaw With Almonds

crunchy cabbage apple slaw

Cabbage and Apple Slaw With Almonds is a rejuvenating and crunchy salad that beautifully combines the crispness of cabbage with the sweetness of apples, accented by the nutty flavor of toasted almonds. This vibrant slaw is perfect for fall lunches, providing a delightful contrast of textures and a hint of sweetness, making it both healthy and satisfying.

Ingredients Quantity
Green cabbage 4 cups, shredded
Red cabbage 2 cups, shredded
Granny Smith apple 1 large, thinly sliced
Carrot 1 medium, grated
Almonds 1/2 cup, sliced and toasted
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons
Honey 1 tablespoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, sliced apple, and grated carrot.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until evenly coated.
  4. Add the toasted almonds on top and gently mix before serving. Enjoy your Cabbage and Apple Slaw With Almonds!
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Roasted Garlic and Pumpkin Salad

warm roasted pumpkin salad

Roasted Garlic and Pumpkin Salad is a warm and hearty dish that celebrates the comforting flavors of fall. This salad combines the earthy sweetness of roasted pumpkin and garlic with fresh greens and a tangy dressing, making it a nourishing option for a healthy lunch. It’s perfect for autumn, bringing warmth and vibrant colors to your table.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh pumpkin 2 cups, cubed
Garlic cloves 4, peeled
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Mixed greens 4 cups
Feta cheese 1/2 cup, crumbled
Dried cranberries 1/4 cup
Balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the pumpkin cubes and garlic cloves with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and golden.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, roasted pumpkin, and garlic, then add dried cranberries and feta cheese.
  3. Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve warm and enjoy your Roasted Garlic and Pumpkin Salad!
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Turkey and Cranberry Salad Wrap

thanksgiving turkey salad wrap

Turkey and Cranberry Salad Wrap is a delightful and satisfying dish that brings together the classic flavors of Thanksgiving in a convenient, portable format. This wrap is filled with tender turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and crunchy vegetables, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. It’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner, encapsulating the comforting taste of fall in every bite.

Ingredients Quantity
Cooked turkey, shredded 2 cups
Cranberry sauce 1/2 cup
Cream cheese 1/4 cup, softened
Spinach leaves 1 cup
Sliced cucumber 1/2 cup
Sliced avocado 1 medium
Whole wheat tortillas 2
Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded turkey, cranberry sauce, and cream cheese until well mixed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  2. Lay the whole wheat tortillas flat and spread a layer of the turkey mixture onto each.
  3. Top with spinach leaves, sliced cucumber, and avocado.
  4. Roll the tortillas tightly, starting from one end, and cut in half to serve. Enjoy your Turkey and Cranberry Salad Wrap!

Mediterranean Lentil Salad With Roasted Vegetables

mediterranean lentil salad recipe

Mediterranean Lentil Salad with Roasted Vegetables is a vibrant, nutritious dish that combines hearty lentils with an array of roasted seasonal vegetables and a zesty dressing. Packed with protein and fiber, this salad is not only filling but also bursting with Mediterranean flavors, making it a perfect addition to your fall lunch menu.

Ingredients Quantity
Green or brown lentils 1 cup
Bell peppers (assorted) 2, chopped
Zucchini 1, diced
Red onion 1, diced
Cherry tomatoes 1 cup, halved
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Lemon juice 2 tablespoons
Fresh parsley, chopped 1/4 cup
Salt and pepper to taste
Feta cheese (optional) 1/2 cup, crumbled

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized.
  2. In a pot, cook the lentils in boiling water according to package instructions until tender, about 20-25 minutes. Drain and let cool.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the roasted vegetables, cooked lentils, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Mix well and adjust seasoning if needed.
  4. Serve topped with crumbled feta cheese, if desired. Enjoy your Mediterranean Lentil Salad with Roasted Vegetables!

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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.