Fall salads are a great way to celebrate the flavors of the season. Here’s a guide to creating your own autumn-inspired salad, categorized for easy mix-and-match options.
Greens
Choose a base for your salad:
- Spinach
- Kale
- Arugula
- Mixed greens
- Romaine lettuce
Proteins
Add some protein for a satisfying meal:
- Grilled chicken
- Roasted turkey
- Bacon bits
- Hard-boiled eggs
- Chickpeas
Fruits
Incorporate fresh, seasonal fruits for a touch of sweetness:
- Apple slices
- Pomegranate seeds
- Pears
- Dried cranberries
- Grapes
Vegetables
Add colorful and nutritious vegetables:
- Roasted butternut squash
- Sweet potato cubes
- Beets (roasted or pickled)
- Brussels sprouts (roasted)
- Red onion slices
Cheeses
Sprinkle in some cheese for extra flavor:
- Goat cheese
- Feta
- Blue cheese crumbles
- Parmesan shavings
- Cheddar cubes
Nuts & Seeds
For crunch and added nutrition, include nuts and seeds:
- Walnuts
- Pecans
- Pumpkin seeds
- Sunflower seeds
- Almond slices
Grains
Enhance the texture and heartiness with grains:
- Quinoa
- Farro
- Wild rice
- Barley
- Couscous
Dressings
Finish with a delicious fall-inspired dressing:
- Maple balsamic vinaigrette
- Apple cider vinaigrette
- Honey mustard dressing
- Tahini lemon dressing
- Cranberry vinaigrette
Example Fall Salad Combination
Base: Spinach and arugula mix
Protein: Grilled chicken
Fruits: Apple slices and pomegranate seeds
Vegetables: Roasted butternut squash and red onion slices
Cheese: Goat cheese
Nuts & Seeds: Candied pecans
Grains: Quinoa
Dressing: Maple balsamic vinaigrette
