Thanksgiving Autumn Salad is a refreshing and colorful side dish that brightens the holiday table. I remember my sister making it with crisp apples, roasted squash, and candied pecans—the perfect mix of sweet and savory. The crunch of fresh greens paired with tangy vinaigrette brought balance to the richness of the Thanksgiving feast. Light yet festive, this salad is a vibrant addition to the holiday spread.
Groceries
Ingredients
6 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or spring mix)
1 small butternut squash, peeled, cubed, and roasted
2 crisp apples, thinly sliced
½ cup dried cranberries
½ cup candied pecans or walnuts
½ cup crumbled goat cheese or feta
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast cubed butternut squash with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper for 20–25 minutes until tender and caramelized.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper to make the vinaigrette.
- In a large salad bowl, combine mixed greens, roasted squash, apple slices, cranberries, and pecans.
- Toss with vinaigrette just before serving.
- Sprinkle with crumbled goat cheese or feta and serve immediately.
Substitutions
Use roasted sweet potatoes instead of squash.
Replace goat cheese with blue cheese for a bolder flavor.
Swap cranberries with pomegranate seeds for extra freshness.
For nut-free, use toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds.
Equipment
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Baking sheet
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Storage
Refrigerator: Store undressed salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer: Not recommended for salads.
Reheating: Roasted squash can be reheated separately in the oven before adding to the salad.
Top Tips
Dress the salad just before serving to keep greens fresh.
Cut apples right before assembling to prevent browning.
Roast squash at high heat for caramelized edges.
Add extra crunch with seeds or nuts for texture.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare ingredients separately and assemble just before serving.
Can I use bagged salad greens?
Absolutely, pre-washed mixes save time.
What’s the best cheese for this salad?
Goat cheese for creaminess, or blue cheese for tangy flavor.
Can I add protein?
Yes, roasted chicken, turkey slices, or chickpeas make it heartier.