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Fall Harvest Salad with Maple Balsamic Dressing

Fall Harvest Salad with Maple Balsamic Dressing

  • Author: Eric
  • Total Time: 40-45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Fall Harvest Salad with Maple Balsamic Dressing is a bright and satisfying seasonal salad combining crisp mixed greens, sweet roasted butternut squash, fresh apple slices, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal). Topped with a luscious maple balsamic dressing, this dish delivers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. Ideal as a light lunch or colorful side, it celebrates the flavors and colors of fall while being nutritious and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, kale)
  • 2 cups cubed roasted butternut squash
  • 1 medium apple, sliced
  • 1/2 cup toasted pecans
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal)

Dressing Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Roast the Vegetables: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized, stirring halfway through.
  2. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and emulsified, creating a well-balanced sweet and tangy dressing.
  3. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, roasted butternut squash, apple slices, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal). Gently toss everything with the maple balsamic dressing, ensuring even coating.
  4. Final Touch: Give the salad a final gentle stir. Add extra toasted pecans or a drizzle of dressing on top if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy crisp and fresh textures.

Notes

  • Wash and dry greens thoroughly to prevent sogginess.
  • Cut butternut squash into uniform pieces for even roasting.
  • Toast pecans lightly on the stove for enhanced flavor without burning.
  • Adjust the maple syrup quantity in the dressing according to your sweetness preference.
  • Dress the salad just before serving to keep greens crisp.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 salad serving
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 15 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 10 mg

Keywords: fall salad, harvest salad, maple balsamic dressing, roasted butternut squash salad, seasonal salad, healthy salad, vegetarian salad, gluten free salad

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Find it online: https://smartmealsguide.com/fall-harvest-salad-with-maple-balsamic-dressing/