41 Best Fall Salad Recipes for this Harvest Season
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Salads are a popular dish year-round, but there’s something about fall salad recipes that’s extra special. Roasted vegetables, warm nuts, and acorns, the colors of the leaves echoed on the plate.
Fall salads are warm, they’re comforting, and they’re typically far more filling than summer salad recipes. A hearty salad will stand on its own as a main meal without too much fuss.
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What are the Most Popular Salads in Autumn?
In autumn, people often gravitate towards a delicious salad that features seasonal ingredients and flavors that complement the cooler weather.
Common themes like warm salads, roasted vegetable salads, nut or seed toppings, beet salads, and dried fruit salads all grace fall dinner tables.
Some of the most popular salad types you’ll see on this list and on the dinner table are:
If you’re here, you probably already know all of this! So, without any further ado, let’s crack into the forty-one best fall salad recipes for a main dish or a simple salad side.
Best Fall Salad Recipes
1. Chicken Salad with Apples
Source: allnutritious.com
A delightful fall salad featuring tender, grilled chicken slices paired with crisp apple chunks, mixed leafy greens, and a zesty vinaigrette dressing.
The combination of savory and sweet flavors makes this easy fall salad a great addition to your autumn menu.
2. Roasted Sweet Potato Salad with Citrus Tahini Dressing
Source: sweetandsavourypursuits.com
This hearty fall salad stars roasted sweet potatoes, giving it a warm and comforting feel.
Topped with a tangy citrus tahini dressing and garnished with fresh herbs, it’s a scrumptious and nutritious option for the season.
3. Harvest Salad with Apple Vinaigrette
Source: debraklein.com
A refreshing autumn salad featuring an array of colorful veggies, such as mixed greens, carrots, beets, and pumpkin seeds, all brought together with a delectable apple-infused vinaigrette dressing.
This is one of the best fall salads that celebrates the best of the fall harvest. This salad would look perfect on your Thanksgiving dinner holiday table!
This is one of the best healthy thanksgiving appetizer recipes!
4. Autumn Steak Salad with Pecans, Apples, and Raspberry Vinaigrette
Source: cinnamonandcoriander.com
For meat lovers, this fall salad combines succulent steak, crunchy pecans, crisp apple slices, and mixed greens, drizzled with a delightful raspberry vinaigrette.
It’s a hearty and nutritious salad with the perfect balance of flavors. What’s not to love?
5. Carrot and Beetroot Salad
Source: allnutritious.com
A vibrant and nutritious fall salad that highlights the natural sweetness of carrots and beetroots. This is the perfect thing for a cool fall gathering with friends.
Tossed with a light salad dressing and sprinkled with fresh herbs, this easy salad adds a burst of color and flavor to your autumn meals.
6. Butternut Squash Salad
Source: easyanddelish.com
Featuring roasted butternut squash, this salad is a delightful blend of textures and tastes.
Combined with mixed greens, nuts, and a flavorful dressing, it’s a delicious way to enjoy the seasonal flavors of fall. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make and features a ton of protein to keep you full.
7. Fall Harvest Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette
Source: ihearteating.com
This vibrant fall salad brings together the best seasonal produce. Crisp mixed greens are topped with slices of sweet apples, juicy pomegranate arils, and crunchy candied pecans.
The real star is the tangy apple cider vinaigrette, adding a delightful autumnal twist to the dish. Perfect for any fall gathering or as a refreshing lunch option during the cooler months.
You might also enjoy these warming fall soup recipes.
8. Apple Salad with Candied Hazelnuts
Source: serenabakessimplyfromscratch.com
Indulge in the taste of fall with this delightful apple salad. Crisp apple slices are combined with dried cranberries, giving a burst of tartness, while candied hazelnuts add a sweet and nutty crunch.
The salad is finished with a light drizzle of honey-lime dressing, enhancing the flavors of the fruit and nuts. An ideal accompaniment to any autumn meal or a stand-alone healthy treat.
9. Harvest Quinoa Salad
Source: reciperunner.com
Packed with wholesome ingredients, this harvest quinoa salad is a nutrient-rich delight.
Nutty quinoa forms the base, mixed with roasted butternut squash, dried cranberries, and toasted pumpkin seeds, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
The maple tahini dressing adds a creamy, slightly sweet touch to the salad, making it a filling and satisfying autumn dish.
10. Spinach Tomato Salad with Feta Cheese
Source: allnutritious.com
A classic combination of flavors comes together in this simple yet delectable spinach-tomato salad. Fresh baby spinach leaves serve as the bed for juicy cherry tomatoes and creamy feta cheese.
The light balsamic vinaigrette ties the ingredients together, offering a refreshing and light salad option for fall.
11. Butternut Squash Quinoa Salad with Kale
Source: therusticfoodie.com
This hearty fall salad showcases a delightful medley of autumn ingredients. Roasted butternut squash and tender kale leaves are combined with nutty farro grains, creating a wholesome and filling base.
The addition of cranberries, feta cheese, and a tangy balsamic dressing complements the flavors perfectly, making it a delicious and nutritious fall meal.
12. Spinach Salad with Apple, Cheddar, and Smoked Almonds
Source: twohealthykitchens.com
Elevate your salad game with this delightful spinach salad featuring crisp apple slices and toasted pecans.
The combination of fresh baby spinach, tender apples, and crunchy pecans creates a delightful texture and taste.
The zesty apple cider vinaigrette adds a pop of flavor, making this salad a true fall favorite.
13. Roasted Pumpkin Chickpea Salad
Source: therusticfoodie.com
Embrace the flavors of the season with this hearty roasted pumpkin chickpea salad.
Roasted pumpkin chunks and savory chickpeas form the heart of this dish, while baby spinach leaves and tangy feta cheese enhance the taste.
The maple-dijon dressing drizzled on top adds a touch of sweetness to balance the earthy flavors, resulting in a perfect autumn salad.
14. Fall Farro Salad
Source: thewoodenskillet.com
This nutty and chewy farro salad is a delightful addition to any fall meal. Cooked farro is tossed with dried cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and tender baby spinach.
The simple yet flavorful orange vinaigrette complements the ingredients, making this salad a wholesome and delicious choice for autumn gatherings.
15. Mexican Bean Salad
Source: allnutritious.com
Spice up your fall salad repertoire with this vibrant and flavorful Mexican bean salad. A mix of colorful bell peppers, black beans, corn, and cherry tomatoes creates a visually appealing dish.
The zesty lime-cilantro dressing ties all the elements together, making this salad a refreshing and satisfying option for any autumn occasion.
16. Persimmon Salad with Candied Hazelnuts
Source: thedevilwearssalad.com
This delightful fall salad features a vibrant combination of flavors and textures. Slices of ripe persimmon add a subtle sweetness to the mix of arugula, baby spinach, and mixed greens.
Tossed in a tangy dressing made with apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey.
The salad is then sprinkled with crunchy toasted walnuts and creamy goat cheese for the perfect balance of richness and crunch.
17. Beet and Feta Cheese Salad
Source: healthyrecipes101.com
A visually stunning fall salad that bursts with earthy flavors. Roasted beets, sliced into delicate rounds, are paired with peppery arugula and crisp baby spinach.
The salad is then topped with crumbled tangy feta cheese and a zesty lemon vinaigrette. The combination of sweet, savory, and tangy notes makes this salad a true winner.
18. Apple Harvest Salad
Source: cookingwithcurls.com
This salad embodies the essence of autumn with a mix of fresh greens, juicy apples, and candied pecans.
Tossed in a cider vinaigrette that boasts a touch of maple syrup, the salad showcases the perfect blend of sweet and savory.
To add creaminess, tangy goat cheese crumbles are sprinkled on top, completing the harmonious flavors of fall.
19. Fennel Apple Salad
Source: thepyperskitchen.com
A refreshing and crisp salad that showcases the delicate flavors of fennel and sweet-tart apples.
Thinly sliced fennel bulb and apple matchsticks are combined with arugula and tossed in a lemon vinaigrette with a hint of honey.
The salad is then garnished with fresh mint leaves, elevating its taste and aroma.
20. Quinoa and Chickpea Salad
Source: allnutritious.com
Packed with plant-based protein, this hearty fall salad features a blend of quinoa, chickpeas, and roasted vegetables.
Kale adds a pop of color and nutrition, while a lemon-tahini dressing ties everything together. The salad is garnished with crunchy toasted almonds for an extra layer of texture.
21. Tahini Kale Salad with Roasted Sweet Potato, Quinoa, and Feta
Source: thepyperskitchen.com
Nutrient-rich and satisfying, this salad combines kale, roasted sweet potato, quinoa, and crumbled feta cheese.
The creamy tahini dressing adds depth to the flavors, and pomegranate seeds provide a burst of sweetness and vibrant color, making it a true fall feast.
22. Warm Sauteed Mushroom Salad with Spinach
Source: knifeandsoul.com
A comforting fall salad featuring sautéed mushrooms, crispy roasted Brussels sprouts and peppery arugula.
The umami-packed miso tahini dressing brings a unique twist, enhancing the earthy flavors of the dish. Topped with toasted sesame seeds, this warm salad is sure to please.
23. Roasted Delicata Squash Salad
Source: fromvalerieskitchen.com
Delicata squash takes center stage in this flavorful fall salad. Roasted to perfection, the tender squash is paired with mixed greens and a zesty balsamic vinaigrette.
The addition of candied pecans and dried cranberries provide a delightful crunch and sweetness that complements the dish.
24. Sweet Potato Kale Salad with Maple Mustard Dressing
Source: eatloveeats.com
A hearty and colorful salad that highlights the versatility of sweet potatoes.
Roasted sweet potato cubes are combined with kale, cranberries, and walnuts, creating a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
The salad is dressed with a tangy apple cider vinaigrette for the ultimate fall experience.
This is one of the most delicious healthy thanksgiving recipes!
25. Apple Cabbage Salad with Walnuts and Gorgonzola
Source: fromvalerieskitchen.com
This refreshing fall salad combines shredded cabbage, crisp apple slices, and crunchy walnuts, offering a delightful blend of sweet and nutty.
Tossed in a tangy honey mustard dressing, the salad is topped with crumbled gorgonzola cheese, adding a hint of creaminess to each bite.
26. Fall Grain Salad with Harissa Dressing
Source: eatloveeats.com
A wholesome and satisfying salad that brings together a medley of fall grains, including farro and wild rice, with roasted butternut squash, pomegranate seeds, and toasted pumpkin seeds.
The flavors are elevated by a citrusy lemon-tahini dressing, creating a harmonious dish that celebrates the best of autumn’s bounty.
27. Carrot Raisin Salad
Source: lovefromtheoven.com
This delightful fall salad combines the sweetness of carrots and raisins with a tangy dressing for a refreshing taste.
Grated carrots and plump raisins form the base of this crunchy and colorful dish, while a creamy yogurt dressing infused with honey and lemon zest adds a luscious touch.
A sprinkle of toasted walnuts provides a satisfying nutty crunch, making it a perfect addition to your fall salad repertoire.
28. Fall Chicken Apple Brie Salad
Source: ihatemealprep.com
Bring the essence of autumn to your plate with this savory and fruity salad.
Succulent grilled chicken breast teams up with crisp apple slices and rich brie cheese to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Tossed with a zesty Dijon mustard vinaigrette, this salad offers a perfect balance between sweet and savory, making it a hearty and satisfying meal for the cooler months.
29. Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Squash and Feta Cheese
Source: mamazillafood.com
Elevate your fall salads with this Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring fluffy couscous, roasted squash, and crumbled feta cheese.
The soft, caramelized butternut squash complements the nutty couscous and salty feta, while a lemony herb dressing ties it all together.
Garnished with fresh herbs and toasted pine nuts, this salad bursts with fall colors and robust flavors, making it a delightful addition to any autumn menu.
30. Roasted Pumpkin Salad with Feta and Almonds
Source: boulderlocavore.com
Indulge in the quintessential flavors of fall with this mouthwatering roasted pumpkin salad.
Cubes of tender roasted pumpkin are combined with baby spinach, tangy dried cranberries, and crunchy pepitas to create a wholesome and nutritious dish.
Drizzled with a maple Dijon vinaigrette, this salad offers a delightful blend of sweet and savory notes, making it a perfect side dish or a light meal for the season.
31. Fall Harvest Pasta Salad
Source: inspiredbycharm.com
This hearty and colorful pasta salad embraces the essence of fall with a blend of fresh vegetables and wholesome ingredients.
Fusilli pasta forms the base, while roasted sweet potatoes, brussels sprouts, and cranberries add autumnal flair.
Tossed in a balsamic vinaigrette with a touch of maple syrup, this salad offers a delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors, making it a crowd-pleasing addition to fall gatherings.
32. Grilled Chicken Arugula Salad with Pears and Walnuts
Source: lifeasastrawberry.com
For a simple yet flavorful fall salad, look no further than this grilled chicken arugula salad.
Juicy grilled chicken breast is paired with peppery arugula leaves and sweet cherry tomatoes, creating a vibrant and nutritious dish.
Topped with shaved Parmesan cheese and drizzled with a lemon Dijon dressing, this salad offers a burst of freshness and a perfect blend of savory and tangy elements.
It’s one of my go-to options for a quick and satisfying fall meal.
33. Spinach Apple Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing
Source: lifeasastrawberry.com
Celebrate the season with this light and refreshing spinach apple salad.
Fresh baby spinach leaves are combined with crisp apple slices, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy pecans for a delightful texture and flavor contrast.
Tossed in a honey mustard dressing, this salad offers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, making it a delectable addition to any fall meal.
34. Thanksgiving Fruit Salad
Source: twocloveskitchen.com
Add a burst of fruity goodness to your fall salad lineup with this Thanksgiving-inspired fruit salad.
A medley of seasonal fruits, including juicy grapes, crisp apples, and succulent pears, are combined with dried cranberries and candied pecans for an irresistible taste.
Tossed in a cinnamon-orange dressing, this fruit salad brings warmth and comfort to your fall table, making it a perfect accompaniment to any Thanksgiving feast.
35. Fall Pasta Salad
Source: thetoastykitchen.com
Savor the flavors of autumn with this delightful fall pasta salad.
Fusilli pasta provides a hearty base, while roasted vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini add a burst of color and earthy taste.
Tossed in a creamy and herby dressing, this salad brings together the best of fall produce in a delightful, satisfying dish that will surely become a fall favorite.
This salad doubles as one of the best healthy college lunch ideas for fall classes!
36. Sweet Potato Couscous Salad
Source: throughthefibrofog.com
This hearty fall salad features tender roasted sweet potatoes, creamy mozzarella, and a delightful mix of greens.
Topped with a tangy balsamic glaze and toasted pine nuts, it’s a flavorful and satisfying option for autumn meals.
The combination of warm, roasted sweet potatoes with the cool, creamy mozzarella creates a harmonious blend of textures. This salad is a comforting and delicious choice for the fall season.
37. Acorn Squash Salad with Maple Dressing
Source: theoregondietitian.com
Impress guests with this unique combination of seasonal ingredients!
This elegant autumn salad showcases the natural sweetness of acorn squash, which is roasted to perfection and served on a bed of fresh mixed greens.
Drizzled with a luscious maple dressing, the flavors are elevated with a hint of earthy walnuts and tart dried cranberries.
38. Pumpkin Quinoa Salad
Source: throughthefibrofog.com
Embrace the essence of fall with this wholesome and nourishing quinoa bowl featuring roasted pumpkin and a medley of nutritious vegetables.
The pumpkin is coated in a delicious maple glaze, adding a touch of sweetness that complements the savory quinoa and crunchy pepitas.
Packed with vibrant colors and rich flavors, this autumn-inspired quinoa bowl is a perfect pick for a hearty and healthy fall salad.
39. Roasted Delicata Squash, Beet, and Feta Salad
Source: deliciousbydesign.net
Indulge in the beautiful colors and flavors of fall with this eye-catching salad.
Roasted delicata squash and earthy beets are combined with tangy feta cheese, creating a medley of tastes and textures that are as satisfying as they are wholesome.
Tossed in a simple vinaigrette dressing, this salad brings together a delightful blend of roasted, savory, and fresh elements that will make any fall meal a memorable one.
40. Persimmon Salad with Farro and Cranberries
Source: barleyandsage.com
Celebrate the unique flavors of persimmons in this refreshing and delightful fall salad. Sliced persimmons are paired with peppery arugula, sweet pomegranate seeds, and crunchy pecans.
The simple yet flavorful dressing enhances the natural sweetness of the persimmons and complements the other ingredients perfectly.
This salad will add a burst of color and taste to your seasonal spread!
41. Fall Fruit Salad
Source: thetoastykitchen.com
Savor the abundance of fall fruits with this exquisite fruit salad. Packed with seasonal favorites like apples, pears, and grapes, this salad captures the essence of autumn on a plate.
A zesty lemon and honey dressing ties all the flavors together, creating a light and refreshing salad that’s perfect for a healthy and wholesome fall dessert or side dish.
With its colorful and juicy medley of fruits, this salad is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of the season.
This fruit salad would also make a great healthy fall dessert recipe!
And that’s forty-one! There’s nothing better than tying your meal choices to the changes of the seasons. It’s just something we naturally do as humans!
So, which of these fall recipes has caught your attention? Let me know in the comments! I’m always looking to add recipes to my repertoire.
Speaking of which, if you’re in the same boat, I’ve left some more recipes below for you to check out. Thanks for reading, and happy fall cooking! I’ll see you next time.
More Recipes to Explore:
31 Best Fall Appetizers for Your Next Dinner Party
