Fall Harvest Salad

Fall harvest salad is a delightful way to embrace the flavors of autumn. This vibrant dish combines roasted sweet potatoes, tender chicken, crisp apples, and crunchy pumpkin seeds, all tossed in a creamy orange vinaigrette. Perfect for gatherings or as a main course, this salad offers a mix of textures and tastes that will please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of sweet potatoes, apples, and cranberries creates a symphony of flavors that truly captures the essence of fall.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal cooking time, you can whip up this salad in under an hour.
• Nutritious Meal: Packed with protein from chicken and healthy fats from pumpkin seeds, this salad is both satisfying and nourishing.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or a side dish; it fits perfectly into any meal plan.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare components in advance to save time on busy days while still enjoying fresh flavors.

Tools and Preparation

To make your fall harvest salad, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the process easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Jar for dressing

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Ensures even roasting of sweet potatoes for optimal flavor and texture.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup quick after roasting.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without mess.
• Jar for dressing: Allows easy mixing and storage of your creamy orange vinaigrette.

Ingredients

Fall harvest salad with chicken, sweet potatoes, apples, cranberries, pumpkin seeds, and goat cheese, tossed with a creamy orange vinaigrette. Full of flavors and textures, and perfect for autumn.

For the Salad

• 2 cups diced sweet potatoes (8 ounces)
• 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
• 6 cups mixed greens, roughly chopped (180 grams)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded chicken (6 ounces)
• 1 cup diced apple (100 grams)
• 2 tablespoons dried cranberries
• 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds/pepitas (I used roasted)
• 1/3 cup goat cheese (1.5 ounces)
• salt and pepper, to taste

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup orange vinaigrette

How to Make Fall Harvest Salad

Step 1: Roast Your Potatoes

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Add diced potatoes along with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine. Roast for 25-35 minutes until browned and fork-tender.

Step 2: Make Your Dressing

While the potatoes roast, prepare your dressing by mixing all ingredients in a jar. Shake well until combined. Adjust seasoning according to taste if needed.

Step 3: Prep Your Salad Ingredients

Roughly chop your mixed greens and dice your apples into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Once the roasted potatoes have cooled slightly, gather all ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Add mixed greens, shredded chicken, roasted sweet potatoes, diced apples, goat cheese, pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, plus a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour over your prepared dressing and toss gently until everything is well coated.

Step 5: Enjoy!

Serve immediately for best flavor or refrigerate if preparing ahead of time. This refreshing fall harvest salad is sure to become a seasonal favorite!

How to Serve Fall Harvest Salad

This Fall Harvest Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as a light meal or a side, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Main Course

• This salad is hearty enough to stand alone as a main course, providing protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the pumpkin seeds.

With Grilled Chicken

• Pair your salad with additional grilled chicken for an extra protein boost. Season the chicken simply with salt and pepper to complement the salad’s flavors.

On a Bed of Quinoa

• Serve the salad over cooked quinoa for added texture and nutrition. The nutty flavor of quinoa complements the sweet potatoes and cranberries perfectly.

As Meal Prep

• Divide the salad into meal prep containers for easy lunches throughout the week. Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.

With Crusty Bread

• Accompany your salad with slices of crusty bread or baguette. This adds a satisfying crunch and is perfect for scooping up any leftover ingredients.

How to Perfect Fall Harvest Salad

Creating the perfect Fall Harvest Salad involves attention to detail and fresh ingredients. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients – Opt for fresh mixed greens and seasonal produce for vibrant flavors and textures.
• Roast Sweet Potatoes Until Crispy – Ensure sweet potatoes are roasted until crispy on the outside. This adds a delightful crunch.
• Customize Your Dressing – Adjust the orange vinaigrette according to your taste preferences; add more citrus or honey if desired.
• Add Flavorful Toppings – Consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and richness.
• Serve at Room Temperature – Allow the roasted sweet potatoes to cool slightly before assembling, enhancing overall flavor balance.
• Make It Colorful – Incorporate various colored apples or even pomegranate seeds for visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Fall Harvest Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Fall Harvest Salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Tossed in olive oil and sea salt, these sprouts add a deliciously nutty flavor.
2. Sweet Potato Fries – Baked sweet potato fries bring an extra dose of sweetness that pairs well with salad ingredients.
3. Butternut Squash Soup – A warm bowl of this creamy soup enhances the autumn theme while being comforting and filling.
4. Garlic Breadsticks – Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter are perfect for dipping into any leftover dressing.
5. Cranberry Sauce – A side of tangy cranberry sauce can enhance the flavors of both the salad and any accompanying dishes.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds a delightful crunch while keeping it seasonal and fresh.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating a delicious Fall Harvest Salad can be easy, but there are common mistakes that can affect your dish. Here are some to watch out for:

• Skipping the Roasting Step: Roasting sweet potatoes enhances their flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step; be sure to roast them until they are browned and fork-tender.
• Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much dressing can overwhelm the other flavors. Start with a small amount, toss well, and add more as needed.
• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Fresh greens and fruits make a big difference in taste and texture. Always opt for fresh rather than wilted or outdated produce.
• Ignoring Seasoning: A pinch of salt and pepper is essential for enhancing the flavors of the salad. Don’t forget to season your ingredients before mixing!
• Assembling Too Early: If you prepare the salad too far in advance, it may wilt or become soggy. Assemble right before serving for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• The salad will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Fall Harvest Salad

• It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to its fresh ingredients, which may change texture upon thawing.

Reheating Fall Harvest Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), spread salad components on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a pan over medium heat; add salad components and stir until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Fall Harvest Salad?

Fall Harvest Salad is a seasonal dish featuring roasted sweet potatoes, chicken, apples, cranberries, pumpkin seeds, and goat cheese with a creamy orange vinaigrette.

Can I customize my Fall Harvest Salad?

Absolutely! You can swap out ingredients or add your favorites like nuts or different cheeses based on personal preference.

How do I make the orange vinaigrette?

Simply mix olive oil, fresh orange juice, vinegar, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper in a jar. Shake until combined!

What other veggies can I include?

Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like spinach or roasted Brussels sprouts for more flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

The Fall Harvest Salad is not only vibrant but also packed with flavors and textures that celebrate autumn. With its versatility, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Give it a try today!