Fall Harvest Salad

Fall Harvest Salad

Welcome to SousVideRecipe! I’m Jasmine, a home cook who fell in love with sous vide the moment I realized it could turn everyday meals into restaurant-quality dishes with perfect consistency. My goal is to make sous vide cooking approachable and fun for real home kitchens — no complicated steps, just flavorful, reliable recipes anyone can master. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, I’m here to inspire you to enjoy cooking and create unforgettable meals one perfectly cooked bite at a time.

Each fall, the vibrant colors of harvest excite my senses, reminding me of simpler times. As leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, my kitchen transforms into a cozy haven. I reconnect with seasonal ingredients that fill my heart and home with warmth. One standout dish that brings those autumn vibes is the Fall Harvest Salad. This vibrant medley combines the earthy flavors of roasted butternut squash, crispy bacon, and hearty kale with the sweetness of apples and a delightful crunch from pecans.

Creating a recipe that celebrates all that fall offers is fulfilling. The taste of roasted butternut squash paired with toasted pecans creates a balance of sweet and savory. Each bite tells a story of this wonderful season, bringing friends and family together around the table. As we dive into the heart of this salad, let’s explore its fundamental aspects, ensuring we savor the flavors this fall.

Fall Harvest Salad Fundamentals

Fundamentals

The Fall Harvest Salad serves as an excellent representation of autumn’s bounty. Each ingredient contributes unique flavors and textures, elevating the dish to something truly special. Roasting the butternut squash caramelizes its natural sugars, enhancing its sweetness. Pairing this beloved squash with crispy bacon and kale results in a satisfying combination that delights the palate.

Kale and mixed spring greens offer a fresh and nutritious base, balancing the hearty elements. The honeycrisp apple introduces a refreshing crunch, while dried cranberries add a touch of tartness. Finally, to bring the whole salad together, a zesty dressing made from olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, and shallots ties all these flavors into a deliciously cohesive experience.

Preparation/setup

Preparing the Fall Harvest Salad requires some simple steps that make the process rewarding and enjoyable. Start by preheating the oven, ensuring the butternut squash roasts evenly to perfection. The key is to cut the squash into uniform cubes, which helps ensure consistent cooking. As the squash roasts, you can multitask by cooking the bacon to crispy perfection and prepping the kale and mixed greens.

Gathering all the ingredients ahead of time streamlines the process, allowing you to enjoy the cooking journey. Prepare your dry ingredients, wash and chop the greens, and focus on achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your dressing as the squash and bacon finish cooking.

Ingredients

For the Fall Harvest Salad, collect the following ingredients:

• 4 cups butternut squash, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 slices bacon
• 4 cups chopped kale
• 6 cups mixed spring greens
• 2 cups cooked shredded turkey or chicken (8 ounces)
• 1 Honeycrisp or Jonathan apple, cored and diced
• ⅔ cup pecan halves, toasted and chopped
• ⅓ cup dried cranberries
• ½ cup peeled Manchego or Parmesan (2 ounces), grated
• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• ¼ cup white balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons minced shallot
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. In a bowl, toss butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper.
3. Spread the squash in an even layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast the squash for 25-30 minutes, tossing halfway through to ensure even cooking.
5. While the squash roasts, cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy. Remove from the heat and chop it into bite-sized pieces.
6. In a large bowl, massage the kale to tenderize it, then add the mixed greens.
7. Layer the salad with roasted squash, chopped bacon, shredded turkey or chicken, diced apple, chopped pecans, dried cranberries, and grated cheese.
8. In a separate bowl, whisk together ¼ cup olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, minced shallot, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard. Season the dressing to taste with salt and pepper.
9. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients.

Elevating Your Fall Harvest Salad Technique

Technique

Mastering the Fall Harvest Salad requires attention to technique. Roasting the butternut squash is a pivotal step, as its caramelization deeply enhances flavor. Toss the cubes in olive oil, salt, and pepper, ensuring even coating. Using parchment paper on the baking sheet simplifies cleanup while preventing sticking.

Cooking the bacon in a skillet allows for perfect crispiness. For extra flavor, consider adding some chopped sage or rosemary during the last minute of cooking. These herbs deepen the autumnal essence of the salad. While preparing the greens, make sure to massage the kale well, breaking down its fibrous structure and making it more palatable.

Tips/tricks

To achieve a salad that bursts with flavor and texture, follow these helpful tips. First, ensure that the butternut squash is thoroughly cooked. When it’s fork-tender and slightly caramelized, its sweetness shines. If you’re short on time, you can also use pre-cubed butternut squash available at grocery stores.

To add a twist, feel free to experiment with different nuts or cheeses. Walnuts or almonds can replace pecans, while feta or goat cheese can substitute for Manchego or Parmesan, bringing new flavors to the forefront. Lastly, make the dressing in advance to allow the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste of the salad.

Perfecting Your Fall Harvest Salad

Perfecting results

To take your Fall Harvest Salad to the next level, focus on balancing flavors and textures. The combination of sweet, savory, and tart elements makes every bite enjoyable. Adjust the amounts of dressing and toppings based on personal preference. If you love a specific ingredient, feel free to go heavy on it.

Texture plays a vital role as well. The crunch from the pecans and bits of apple contrasts beautifully against the tender roasted squash and hearty kale. Aim for a mix of soft and crunchy elements to provide a satisfying mouthfeel.

Troubleshooting/variations

Sometimes, dish perfection requires some adjustments. If your squash comes out too firm, ensure even cutting to promote consistent roasting. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, which can lead to uneven cooking. If you prefer a milder taste, try reducing the amount of Dijon mustard in the dressing.

Variations can also enhance your salad’s appeal. Swap out kale for spinach or arugula for a distinct flavor profile. Introducing seasonal ingredients like roasted Brussels sprouts or adding sliced pears can also create fresh excitement. Feel free to experiment and adjust until your perfect version unfolds.

Serving Your Fall Harvest Salad

Serving/presentation

Presenting the Fall Harvest Salad beautifully is key to impressing guests. Layering the salad components in a clear salad bowl allows colorful elements to shine through. Start with a bed of greens at the bottom, followed by the roasted squash. Scatter bacon, turkey or chicken, apple pieces, cranberries, pecans, and grated cheese on top.

For added flair, consider garnishing with extra pecans, a sprinkle of cranberries, or extra cheese. A drizzle of dressing just before serving elevates the dish visually and adds a fresh touch.

Pairings/storage

This salad pairs well with myriad dishes. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or turkey for a complete fall meal. You can also enjoy it as a standalone dish for lunch or dinner.

To store leftovers, keep the salad components separate to maintain their freshness. Place the roasted squash, greens, and toppings in airtight containers and store them in the fridge. Assemble servings when you’re ready to enjoy them again. Dress the salad just before serving to avoid sogginess.

While the Fall Harvest Salad celebrates seasonal ingredients, it also provides a canvas for creativity. Each bite offers a taste of autumn’s beauty, where flavor and nutrition thrive in harmony. Enjoy the journey of crafting this vibrant dish and share it with those you love this fall.

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