- Onion swap: If shallots aren’t available, finely diced yellow onion is a great substitute. Yellow onions have a slightly sharper bite, so you may want to soak them in cold water for 5 minutes.
- Leafy greens: This salad works with almost any base like baby spinach, kale, arugula, or a mixed leafy greens blend for variety.
- Flavor boost: Sprinkle in vegan feta cheese crumble for creamy tang and coconut bacon for smoky crunch.
- Protein option: For a more filling meal, toss in crispy tofu nuggets. Their golden edges and tender centers make them the perfect protein-packed addition.
Fall Harvest Salad
Servings: 4
This fall harvest salad is a fresh, colorful, celebration of Autumn's best flavors, crisp greens, juicy fruit, tangy dried cherries, and crunchy candied pecans, all tossed in a rich balsamic vinaigrette. It's light, nutrient-packed, and perfect for everything from quick lunches to holiday gatherings.
Equipment
Ingredients
- 6 cups mixed greens
- 1 pear thinly sliced
- 1 honey crisp apple thinly sliced
- ¼ cup dried cherries
- 1 cup candied pecans
Dressing
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 shallot minced
- ½ tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 pinch sea salt, unrefined
- black pepper, ground
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
For Dressing:
- Add all dressing ingredients to a jar (or mixing bowl) and shake vigorously (or whisk) to combine. Taste and adjust flavor as needed, adding more balsamic for acidity, salt or pepper for flavor balance, or olive oil for creaminess. Set aside.
To Serve:
- Combine greens, half of the sliced apple and pear, dried cherries and half of the candied pecans to a large mixing/serving bowl. Drizzle with a bit of the dressing and toss to combine.
- Plate and garnish with remaining pears, apples and pecans. Serve with remaining dressing on the side.
Notes
- Pecans: For the perfect crunch, store pecans in a well-sealed container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight.
Nutrition
Calories: 372kcal, Carbohydrates: 36g, Protein: 3g, Fat: 25g, Saturated Fat: 3g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g, Monounsaturated Fat: 16g, Sodium: 149mg, Potassium: 246mg, Fiber: 5g, Sugar: 26g, Vitamin A: 991IU, Vitamin C: 18mg, Calcium: 52mg, Iron: 1mg