Crisp and refreshing, this Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette brings the flavors of fall right to your table. Perfect for family gatherings, holiday meals, or a simple weeknight dinner, this salad combines an exciting mix of textures and tastes. The tart apples and sweet cranberries perfectly complement the savory bacon and creamy feta, all brought together by a delightful homemade vinaigrette.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With a prep time of just 15 minutes, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of tart apples, nutty pecans, and crispy bacon creates a symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds.
Versatile Side Dish: This salad pairs wonderfully with various main courses, making it suitable for any occasion from Thanksgiving to casual dinners.
Healthy and Satisfying: Packed with fresh greens and nutritious ingredients, this salad is both wholesome and filling.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the fridge for an easy meal prep option.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your preparation smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Jar with lid
Large mixing bowl
Whisk or fork
Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

Jar with lid: Perfect for shaking up your vinaigrette without any mess.
Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients easily without spilling.
Whisk or fork: Helps blend the dressing ingredients thoroughly for a smooth consistency.

Ingredients

Crisp greens are topped with tart apples, sweet dried cranberries, feta cheese, toasted pecans, and crispy bacon in this Autumn Salad. Finish off with our sweet and tangy Apple Cider Vinaigrette.

For the Dressing

2/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons maple syrup (sub: honey)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Salad

8 cups crisp Romaine or Green Leaf lettuce, chopped (approximately 1 head of lettuce)
2 medium tart red apples, cored and diced (do not peel) (recommended: Fuji or Honeycrisp)
1 cup dried cranberries (sub: fresh pomegranate seeds)
1 cup chopped pecans, toasted (see Cooking Notes)
8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (try baking it ahead of time)
4 ounces crumbled feta cheese (sub: Gorgonzola crumbles)

How to Make Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

Step 1: Make the Dressing

Add all the dressing ingredients to a jar with a lid.
Seal the jar tightly and shake vigorously until well combined.
You can prepare this dressing ahead of time; store it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, add all salad ingredients including chopped lettuce, diced apples, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, crumbled bacon, and feta cheese.
Lightly drizzle about 2/3rds of the prepared dressing over the top of the salad mixture.
Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
Serve immediately with remaining dressing on the side for those who want extra flavor.

This delightful Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette is sure to become a favorite at your table! Enjoy!

How to Serve Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

This Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette is not only delicious but also versatile. It can be served in many ways to enhance your dining experience.

As a Main Course

Serve it with grilled chicken or tofu for a filling meal.
Add a slice of crusty bread to make it more satisfying.

For a Festive Gathering

Present it in a large bowl for family-style dining.
Garnish with extra pecans and cranberries for visual appeal.

As a Light Lunch

Pack it into a mason jar for an easy grab-and-go lunch option.
Pair it with a light soup for a comforting meal.

With Additional Proteins

Top with sliced steak or shrimp for added protein.
Incorporate chickpeas or quinoa for a vegetarian protein boost.

At Holiday Parties

Serve alongside roasted vegetables and turkey for Thanksgiving.
Offer as part of a buffet spread during festive gatherings.

How to Perfect Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

To make this salad truly shine, consider these helpful tips.

Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest greens and fruits you can find for the best flavor.
Balanced Dressing: Adjust the sweetness of the vinaigrette by adding more maple syrup or vinegar according to your taste.
Crunch Factor: Toast pecans just before serving for extra crunch and warmth.
Make Ahead: Prepare the dressing in advance and refrigerate it to save time on busy days.
Layering Flavors: Let the salad sit for a few minutes after tossing to allow flavors to meld together.
Seasonal Variations: Feel free to adjust ingredients based on what’s in season or available at your local market.

Best Side Dishes for Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

Pairing side dishes with your Autumn Salad enhances its flavors. Here are some great options:

Roasted Butternut Squash: Sweet, caramelized squash complements the salad’s tartness perfectly.
Garlic Bread: A warm and crispy addition that provides a nice contrast to the salad’s textures.
Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts add earthiness and crunch, making them an excellent sidekick.
Cranberry Sauce: A tangy sauce that echoes the salad’s cranberries while adding holiday flair.
Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the apples in the salad.
Cheesy Quinoa Bake: A hearty dish that adds protein while balancing out the fresh elements of the salad.
Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs offer an umami punch alongside fresh greens.
Herbed Rice Pilaf: Lightly seasoned rice provides a neutral base that enhances all other flavors on the plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Skipping the Dressing Prep: Failing to prepare the vinaigrette in advance can lead to bland flavors. Always mix your dressing ahead of time for a better taste.
Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a little and add more as needed to ensure every bite is flavorful without overwhelming the greens.
Using the Wrong Greens: Choosing wilted or overly bitter greens will detract from your salad’s freshness. Opt for crisp Romaine or Green Leaf lettuce for the best texture and taste.
Neglecting Texture Variety: A lack of texture can make the salad less interesting. Incorporate crunchy nuts or crispy bacon to enhance the overall experience.
Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or low-quality ingredients can diminish flavor. Always select fresh apples, high-quality cheese, and vibrant greens for optimal results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

- Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Salad Separation: Keep dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain crispness.

Freezing Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

- Not Recommended: This salad does not freeze well due to the lettuce and dressing.

Reheating Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

Oven: Heat leftover bacon in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until crispy again.
Microwave: Warm individual components on low heat for short intervals, stirring frequently.
Stovetop: Sauté any leftover bacon in a pan over medium heat until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making an Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette:

Can I customize my Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette?

Absolutely! You can add different nuts, swap cheeses, or include seasonal veggies like roasted squash or beets.

How long does the Apple Cider Vinaigrette last?

The homemade vinaigrette can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Just shake it well before using.

What type of apples are best for this salad?

Tart apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp work best as they balance sweetness and acidity perfectly.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It’s great for meal prep; just keep the dressing separate until serving to avoid sogginess.

Final Thoughts

This Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette is not only a delightful blend of flavors but also highly versatile. You can easily customize it based on your preferences or seasonal availability. Perfect as a side dish or a light lunch, we encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy its comforting taste!

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Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

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Author: Tina
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Experience the essence of fall with this Autumn Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette. This vibrant dish features a delightful combination of tart apples, sweet cranberries, creamy feta, and crispy bacon, all tossed in a homemade apple cider vinaigrette. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, this salad is not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavors that evoke the warmth of autumn. Quick to prepare and versatile enough to complement any main course, it’s a wholesome option that will leave your taste buds satisfied.

Ingredients

Crisp Romaine or Green Leaf lettuce
Tart red apples (Fuji or Honeycrisp)
Dried cranberries
Crumbled feta cheese
Toasted pecans
Crispy bacon
Apple Cider Vinaigrette (olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard)

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Instructions

Make the Dressing: In a jar with a lid, combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Seal and shake until well mixed.
Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, mix chopped lettuce, diced apples, cranberries, toasted pecans, crumbled bacon, and feta cheese. Drizzle about two-thirds of the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
Serve Immediately: Plate the salad and serve with remaining dressing on the side.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: No Cooking
Cuisine: American