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Autumn Glow Salad

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The Autumn Glow Salad is a vibrant and fresh fall-inspired salad featuring crisp apples, roasted butternut squash, mixed greens, toasted nuts, dried cranberries, and a maple-Dijon dressing. This colorful and nutritious salad perfectly balances sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, making it ideal for cozy dinners or brightening up your lunch with seasonal charm.

Ingredients

Scale

Produce

  • 2 cups mixed greens (baby spinach, arugula, kale)
  • 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed (about 3 cups)
  • 2 crisp apples (Honeycrisp or Fuji), thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • Fresh thyme sprigs or thinly sliced green onions (optional for garnish)

Nuts and Cheese

  • 1/3 cup toasted pecans or walnuts
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese

Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Wash the mixed greens thoroughly and dry completely using a salad spinner or clean towels. Peel and cube the butternut squash evenly. Thinly slice the apples and toast the pecans or walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
  2. Roast the Butternut Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the cubed squash on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Roast for about 25 minutes or until tender with caramelized edges. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together pure maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and emulsified, balancing sweetness and tang to your taste.
  4. Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, dried cranberries, roasted butternut squash, sliced apples, and toasted nuts. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
  5. Finish with Cheese and Serve: Sprinkle the crumbled feta or goat cheese on top for a creamy, tangy finish. Garnish optionally with fresh thyme sprigs or thinly sliced green onions. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest textures and vibrant flavors.

Notes

  • Use the freshest seasonal produce available for the best flavor.
  • Ensure greens are dried well so the dressing adheres properly.
  • Toast nuts gently and watch closely to avoid burning.
  • Adjust the dressing sweetness by balancing maple syrup and vinegar to your liking.
  • Serve the salad immediately to maintain its crisp textures and vibrant colors.

Nutrition

Keywords: Autumn salad, fall salad, butternut squash salad, apple salad, maple Dijon dressing, gluten free salad

Find it online: https://juliaglam.com/autumn-glow-salad/