Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Autumn Chopped Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: samahkitchen
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-cook
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Autumn Chopped Salad is packed with crisp apples, crunchy pecans, sweet dried cranberries, and creamy goat cheese, all tossed in a homemade apple cider vinaigrette. It’s the perfect side dish for holiday gatherings or a light, refreshing meal on its own!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Salad:

  • 6 cups mixed greens (romaine, spinach, or arugula)
  • 1 medium apple, chopped (Honeycrisp or Fuji work well)
  • 1/2 cup pecans or walnuts, toasted
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta
  • 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional, for extra flavor)
  • 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes (optional, for extra fall flavor)

For the Apple Cider Vinaigrette:

  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp cinnamon (optional, for a warm fall flavor)

Instructions

  1. Toast the Nuts:

    • In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans or walnuts for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Let cool.
  2. Prepare the Dressing:

    • In a small bowl or jar, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, salt, pepper, and cinnamon. Shake or whisk until well combined.
  3. Assemble the Salad:

    • In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, chopped apple, cranberries, red onion, goat cheese, bacon (if using), and roasted butternut squash (if using).
  4. Dress & Serve:

    • Drizzle the apple cider vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
    • Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For extra crunch: Add roasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds.

Make it a meal: Top with grilled chicken or roasted turkey.

Dairy-free option: Swap goat cheese for avocado.

Storage Tip: Store salad ingredients separately from the dressing and toss right before serving.