Autumn Chopped Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

Autumn Chopped Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette is a crisp, refreshing dish that captures the best flavors of fall. With crunchy apples, crisp bacon, candied pecans, and tangy cheese, this salad is a delicious blend of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors. Tossed in a homemade apple cider vinaigrette, it’s the perfect addition to your autumn table, whether as a side dish or a light main course.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Fall Flavors – Apples, cranberries, and cider vinaigrette make every bite feel like autumn.
• Quick and Easy – Ready in just 10 minutes with minimal prep.
• Perfectly Balanced – A mix of sweet, savory, and crunchy textures.
• Healthy and Nutritious – Packed with fiber, antioxidants, and protein.
• Great for Any Occasion – Ideal for weeknight dinners, holidays, or potlucks.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Salad:

• Mixed greens (romaine, spinach, or arugula)
• Apples (Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji), diced
• Cooked and crumbled bacon
• Candied pecans or walnuts
• Dried cranberries
• Crumbled feta or goat cheese
• Red onion, thinly sliced

For the Apple Cider Vinaigrette:

• Apple cider vinegar
• Olive oil
• Honey or maple syrup
• Dijon mustard
• Garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Make the Vinaigrette – In a small bowl or jar, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
2. Assemble the Salad – In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced apples, bacon, pecans, cranberries, feta, and red onion.
3. Dress and Toss – Drizzle the apple cider vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat.
4. Serve Fresh – Enjoy immediately as a side or add protein for a main course.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Top with grilled chicken, turkey, or roasted chickpeas for extra protein.
• Make It Vegan: Omit bacon and cheese, and use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.
• Nut-Free Option: Swap nuts for roasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
• Extra Crunch: Add croutons or roasted butternut squash for more texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover salad (without dressing) in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Dressing Storage: Keep the vinaigrette in the fridge for up to 1 week. Shake well before using.
• Avoid Sogginess: Add the dressing just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp.

FAQs

What apples work best for this salad?

Crisp, slightly sweet apples like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji are ideal.

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes! Chop the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately. Add dressing right before serving.

Can I use store-bought dressing?

Yes, a balsamic or poppy seed dressing would also work well.

How do I keep apples from browning?

Toss them with a little lemon juice to keep them fresh.

What cheese pairs best with this salad?

Feta, goat cheese, or sharp white cheddar all complement the flavors nicely.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Dried cranberries add sweetness, but you can use fresh ones if finely chopped and lightly sweetened.

What other greens can I use?

Kale, arugula, or butter lettuce all make great alternatives.

Is there a nut-free alternative?

Yes! Use roasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a similar crunch.

What can I serve with this salad?

It pairs well with roast chicken, pork tenderloin, or a warm soup.

Can I use a different vinegar?

Yes! Balsamic vinegar or white wine vinegar are great substitutes.

Conclusion

Autumn Chopped Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette is a fresh, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that highlights the best of the season. Whether you’re serving it as a side for a holiday meal or enjoying it as a light lunch, this salad is sure to impress. Try different variations and make it your own!

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