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–+ servings
Autumn Harvest Salad

Autumn Harvest Salad: Crunchy, Cozy Fall Flavors Await

Experience the Autumn Harvest Salad, a vibrant mix of tart apples, sweet cranberries, and crunchy walnuts that captures the essence of the season.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Greens
  • 1 head Crisp Green Lettuce Base ingredient for structure and crunch; substitute with romaine or butter lettuce for variety.
For the Salad Base
  • 1 Green Apple Adds tartness and refreshing crunch; slice thin for even distribution or swap with pears.
  • 0.5 cup Dried Cranberries Provides a chewy texture and sweetness; try dried cherries or apricots for a fun twist.
  • 0.5 cup Walnuts Contributes earthy flavor and crunch; toast for enhanced aroma or use pecans as a sweeter alternative.
  • 0.25 cup Feta or Goat Cheese Offers salty tang and creaminess; substitute with plant-based cheese for a dairy-free option.
For the Vinaigrette
  • 3 tbsp Olive Oil Adds richness and depth of flavor.
  • 1 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar Imparts delicious tanginess that brightens the salad.
  • 1 tsp Honey or Maple Syrup Balances the acidity with a hint of sweetness; both options work wonderfully in this Autumn Harvest Salad.
  • 0.25 tsp Salt Enhances and elevates the overall flavors.
  • pinch Black Pepper Adds a mild spice to round out the vinaigrette.

Equipment

  • Salad spinner
  • medium-sized bowl
  • Large salad bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by washing the crisp green lettuce under cold running water to remove any dirt. After washing, use a salad spinner to dry the leaves thoroughly—this is crucial for your Autumn Harvest Salad to maintain crispiness.
  2. In a medium-sized bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, 1 teaspoon of honey or maple syrup, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Whisk the mixture vigorously for about 30 seconds until the vinaigrette is fully emulsified and creamy.
  3. In a large salad bowl, add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries, 1/2 cup of roughly chopped walnuts, and 1/4 cup of crumbled feta or goat cheese. Mix these ingredients to create a warm invitation to the dish.
  4. Thinly slice your green apple and gently add it to the mixed ingredients in the salad bowl. Toss the mixture lightly to ensure even distribution.
  5. Just before serving, introduce the prepared, dry lettuce to the salad bowl. Drizzle half of the freshly whisked vinaigrette over the top and gently toss everything together.
  6. Taste the salad and adjust the dressing according to your preference, adding more if desired. Make sure to serve the Autumn Harvest Salad immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 5gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 5mg

Notes

Ensure the lettuce is completely dry to prevent sogginess; a salad spinner is best, but paper towels will do in a pinch.

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