Oh, fall! It’s that magical time of year when the air turns crisp, leaves crunch underfoot, and everything feels a little more vibrant. One of my favorite ways to celebrate this season is with a refreshing fall salad that bursts with flavor! This fall salad with maple lime dressing is a delightful mix of roasted butternut squash, tart pomegranate seeds, and crunchy apples, all drizzled with a tangy maple lime dressing that ties it together perfectly. Trust me, the combination of sweet and savory is simply irresistible! What makes this salad extra special for me is that it’s not just a dish; it’s a celebration of the bountiful harvest and all the cozy gatherings that come with it.
Ingredients for Fall Salad with Maple Lime Dressing
Gather these fresh ingredients to whip up your vibrant fall salad:
- 4 cups mixed greens (I love using a combination of arugula and spinach for a peppery kick!)
- 1 cup roasted butternut squash, cubed (just roast it until tender and slightly caramelized!)
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds (these add a gorgeous pop of color and crunch)
- 1/2 cup sliced apples (I prefer tart varieties like Granny Smith for balance)
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (toasted if you want an extra nutty flavor!)
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (for a creamy, salty touch that ties everything together)
Don’t hesitate to swap any ingredients based on your seasonal favorites or what you have on hand!
How to Prepare Fall Salad with Maple Lime Dressing
Let’s dive into making this delicious fall salad! First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, grab your butternut squash and toss it with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of salt, and a dash of pepper. Spread those cubes on a baking sheet and roast them in the oven for about 25 minutes, or until they’re tender and just starting to caramelize. Oh, the smell will drive you wild!
While the squash is roasting, take a large bowl and combine your mixed greens, pomegranate seeds, sliced apples, walnuts, and feta cheese. This colorful medley is just what you want on your plate!
Now, for the dressing! In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, fresh lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until it’s all beautifully combined. Once the squash is done, let it cool for a few minutes before adding it to the salad mix. Drizzle your homemade dressing over everything and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately, and enjoy every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Fall Salad
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights!
- Loaded with seasonal flavors that celebrate fall.
- Healthy and nutritious, packed with vitamins and fiber.
- Customizable with your favorite fruits and nuts.
- The maple lime dressing adds a unique and refreshing twist!
Nutritional Information for Fall Salad with Maple Lime Dressing
This delightful fall salad with maple lime dressing is not only delicious but also a healthy choice! Each serving contains approximately:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Sugar: 10g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 150mg
Keep in mind these values are estimates, but they give you a great idea of the nutritious goodness in every bowl!
Tips for Success with Fall Salad
To make your fall salad truly shine, here are some of my favorite tips! First, roast your butternut squash until it’s golden and caramelized for maximum flavor—don’t rush this step! For the dressing, whisk it up just before serving to keep it fresh; if you make it ahead, store it in the fridge and give it a good shake before drizzling. Also, try to add your dressing just before serving to keep the greens crisp and vibrant. And remember, feel free to mix and match fruits and nuts based on what’s in season or what you love!
Variations on Fall Salad with Maple Lime Dressing
One of the best things about this fall salad is how flexible it is! If you’re in the mood for a twist, try swapping the apples for pears for a softer sweetness. You can also mix in roasted sweet potatoes instead of butternut squash if you prefer a different texture. For nuts, pecans or sliced almonds work beautifully too! And don’t forget about cheese—goat cheese adds a nice tang, while blue cheese can give it a bold flavor. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and use what you love!
Serving Suggestions for Fall Salad
This vibrant fall salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes! I love serving it alongside roasted chicken or turkey for a hearty meal, especially during the cozy autumn months. It also makes a fantastic side to a warm, comforting soup—think butternut squash soup or creamy tomato. And if you’re looking for a lighter option, enjoy it with some crusty bread and a glass of white wine. Yum!
Storage & Reheating Instructions for Fall Salad
If you have any leftovers (which is rare, but hey, it happens!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just remember to keep the dressing separate to maintain the crispness of the greens. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply toss everything together and add a fresh drizzle of dressing. No reheating needed—this salad is best served cold!
FAQ About Fall Salad with Maple Lime Dressing
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can whisk together the maple lime dressing and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just remember to give it a good shake before using!
What other greens can I use?
If mixed greens aren’t your thing, feel free to substitute with kale or romaine for a different texture and taste. Just make sure to massage kale a bit for tenderness!
Can I add protein to this salad?
Yes, adding grilled chicken or chickpeas can turn this salad into a heartier meal. It’s all about what you enjoy!
How do I keep my salad fresh for leftovers?
Store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers. This keeps the greens crisp and prevents sogginess.
What’s a good alternative to feta cheese?
If feta isn’t your favorite, goat cheese or even a dairy-free cheese can work beautifully in this fall salad!
Fall Salad with Maple Lime Dressing: 5 Vibrant Ingredients
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Roasting and Tossing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing fall salad featuring seasonal ingredients and a tangy maple lime dressing.
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup roasted butternut squash, cubed
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/2 cup sliced apples
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 25 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, roasted squash, pomegranate seeds, sliced apples, walnuts, and feta cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use any seasonal fruit you prefer.
- Can substitute walnuts with pecans.
- Make dressing ahead of time and store in the refrigerator.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: fall salad with maple lime dressing