Fall Salad with Maple Vinaigrette – Easy and Delicious

A Fall Salad with Maple Vinaigrette is the ideal dish to celebrate the flavors of the season. This refreshing salad combines fresh greens with the sweet touch of maple syrup, tangy blue cheese, and crunchy candied nuts, making it a truly gourmet experience. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a holiday gathering, this salad adds a burst of color and flavor to any table.

Why You’ll Love This Fall Salad with Maple Vinaigrette

This Fall Salad with Maple Vinaigrette is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. The salad is not only quick and easy to make but also offers a variety of textures—crisp apples, creamy blue cheese, and chewy cranberries—paired with crunchy candied nuts. It’s an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy and vibrant dish without spending too much time in the kitchen. The homemade maple vinaigrette ties it all together with a rich, sweet dressing that’s a simple yet elegant addition to any meal.

Ingredients for Fall Salad with Maple Vinaigrette

To make this delightful Fall Salad with Maple Vinaigrette, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Spring Mix: A fresh and mild base of greens that allows the other flavors to shine.
• Crisp Apples: Adds sweetness and crunch, balancing the richness of the blue cheese.
• Dried Cranberries: Offers a chewy texture and a hint of tartness that complements the sweet elements of the salad.
• Blue Cheese Crumbles: Provides a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweetness of the apples and cranberries.
• Candied Nuts: Adds a sweet crunch that enhances the autumn flavors of the salad.
• Pure Maple Syrup: A key ingredient in the vinaigrette that brings a natural sweetness to the dressing.
• Mayonnaise: Contributes to the creaminess of the vinaigrette while balancing the tangy mustard.
• Stone Ground Mustard: Offers a slight tang and depth to the dressing.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a sharp note that perfectly complements the maple syrup.
• Brown Sugar: Enhances the sweetness of the dressing and helps balance the acidity.
• Vegetable Oil: Helps emulsify the dressing for a smooth, creamy texture.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re missing an ingredient or have dietary preferences, here are some suggestions for swapping out ingredients in this Fall Salad with Maple Vinaigrette:

• Pears: Instead of apples, sliced pears offer a similarly sweet and juicy texture, perfect for fall.
• Goat Cheese: Swap the blue cheese for creamy goat cheese if you prefer a milder cheese flavor.
• Sunflower Seeds or Pepitas: If you prefer a nut-free version, sunflower seeds or pepitas are great alternatives.
• Grains: Add cooked quinoa, farro, or couscous to make the salad heartier and more filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Fall Salad with Maple Vinaigrette

1. Prepare the Maple Vinaigrette: In a jar or a small container with a lid, combine 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup, 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise, 2 teaspoons of stone ground mustard, 1 ½ tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon of brown sugar, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and ⅛ teaspoon of pepper. Shake the jar vigorously until the ingredients are well combined and emulsified. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
2. Assemble the Salad: Place 8 ounces of spring mix in a large serving bowl. Thinly slice 2 apples and scatter them over the greens along with ⅓ cup of dried cranberries, ⅓ cup of blue cheese crumbles, and ⅓ cup of candied nuts.
3. Dress the Salad: When ready to serve, drizzle the maple vinaigrette over the salad. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients and ensure they are evenly coated.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Fall Salad with Maple Vinaigrette

• Make-Ahead Prep: To save time when entertaining, you can prepare the salad without the apples and dressing. Store the salad in the refrigerator, then add the apples and vinaigrette right before serving.
• Prevent Wilted Greens: If you’re preparing the salad ahead of time, consider serving the dressing on the side so guests can dress their own salad.
• Storage: If you have leftover salad, store the greens and toppings separately from the dressing to keep everything fresh. The dressing can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Pairing Ideas and Variations for Fall Salad with Maple Vinaigrette

This Fall Salad with Maple Vinaigrette is versatile and can be paired with various dishes. For a more substantial meal, serve it alongside roasted butternut squash soup or bacon-roasted Brussels sprouts. If you’re hosting a dinner party, consider adding protein such as grilled chicken or chopped rotisserie chicken for a heartier option. You can also mix up the flavors by incorporating roasted vegetables like maple-roasted butternut squash or pomegranate seeds for an extra burst of color and flavor.

Health Benefits of Fall Salad with Maple Vinaigrette

Fall salads are packed with seasonal ingredients that are not only delicious but also healthy. The fresh greens provide essential vitamins and minerals, while the apples and cranberries are rich in antioxidants. The nuts offer a dose of healthy fats, and the homemade maple vinaigrette is free from preservatives found in store-bought dressings, making this salad a wholesome addition to your diet.

With its combination of fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and ease of preparation, Fall Salad with Maple Vinaigrette is sure to become a favorite in your autumn recipe collection. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish for your next gathering, this salad has everything you need to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

Conclusion: Fall Salad with Maple Vinaigrette – A Must-Try Autumn Dish

Fall Salad with Maple Vinaigrette is a delicious and versatile dish that captures the essence of the season. The combination of sweet maple syrup, tangy blue cheese, and crunchy candied nuts creates a salad that is both flavorful and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish at a holiday dinner or enjoying it as a healthy weeknight meal, this salad is sure to be a hit with family and friends. With its vibrant colors, wholesome ingredients, and easy-to-make dressing, this fall salad is a perfect addition to your autumn recipe collection. So why not give it a try and enjoy the tastes of fall in every bite?

FAQ about Fall Salad with Maple Vinaigrette

More Relevant Recipes

• Fall Harvest Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette: This vibrant salad blends autumn flavors with the richness of apple cider vinaigrette, creating a perfect pairing for the Fall Salad with Maple Vinaigrette. It features a variety of fresh vegetables and fruits, ideal for seasonal gatherings.
• Apple Pecan Fall Salad: A deliciously simple yet flavorful salad that combines crisp apples, crunchy pecans, and a tangy dressing. This fall-inspired salad mirrors the maple vinaigrette’s fresh and vibrant taste, making it an excellent alternative for a cozy fall meal.
• Roasted Butternut Squash Salad Recipe: This hearty salad, featuring roasted butternut squash, pairs wonderfully with a maple vinaigrette. The sweetness of the squash combined with the earthy flavors offers a balanced, warming salad perfect for fall, complementing the crispness of the Fall Salad with Maple Vinaigrette.

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