Description
This Fall Salad with Maple Lime Dressing is a vibrant, refreshing dish that beautifully combines crisp mixed greens with sweet apples, roasted butternut squash, toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, and tangy feta cheese. The salad is elevated by a zesty maple-lime dressing, making it an ideal healthy and flavorful meal or side dish perfect for autumn gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 6 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup sliced apples
- 1 cup roasted butternut squash
- 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Maple Lime Dressing
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Salad Base: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced apples, roasted butternut squash, toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, and crumbled feta cheese. Make sure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, freshly squeezed lime juice, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Toss the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture. Gently toss the salad using salad tongs or clean hands to ensure the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly without bruising the greens.
- Serve Immediately: Transfer the salad to individual serving plates or a large serving bowl and serve right away to enjoy the fresh flavors and crisp textures.
Notes
- For the best flavor, use freshly roasted butternut squash; you can roast it ahead of time for convenience.
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant to enhance their crunch and nutty flavor.
- If you prefer a vegan option, substitute the feta cheese with vegan cheese or omit it entirely.
- This salad is best served fresh as the dressing can cause the greens to wilt if left too long.
- Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for added protein to make it a complete meal.
