Delightful Harvest Chopped Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

It’s that time of year when pumpkins spice up everything, and the leaves turn into nature’s confetti. If you’re looking for a dish that captures the essence of autumn in every bite, look no further than this Harvest Chopped Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette. Imagine fresh, crunchy vegetables mingling with sweet apples, all tossed together in a zesty dressing that could make even the most reluctant salad eater swoon.

Now, don’t let the word “salad” fool you into thinking this is some sad pile of greens. Oh no! This dish is a vibrant celebration of flavors and textures that will have you reminiscing about fall harvests and cozy family gatherings. So grab your mixing bowl and get ready for a flavor explosion that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a potluck or just a Tuesday night where you want to feel fancy.

Ingredients for Harvest Chopped Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Mixed Greens: A combination of spinach, arugula, and romaine works beautifully for a fresh base.
• Cherry Tomatoes: These pop in your mouth like little bursts of summer sweetness; choose firm ones for crunch.
• Cucumber: Use English cucumbers for their mild flavor and crisp texture; they add great crunch.
• Apples: A tart variety like Granny Smith complements the sweetness of the vinaigrette perfectly.
• Carrots: Shredded or thinly sliced carrots bring color and sweetness; they’re also fun to munch on.
• Nuts (Pecans or Walnuts): Toasted nuts add depth, crunch, and an earthy flavor to each bite.

For the Vinaigrette:

• Apple Cider Vinegar: This is the star of our dressing; its tanginess ties all the flavors together beautifully.
• Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for richness; it makes everything taste better.
• Honey: A touch of honey balances out the acidity with natural sweetness; maple syrup can be used as an alternative.
• Mustard: Dijon mustard adds zest and helps emulsify the dressing; it’s like magic in a jar!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Harvest Chopped Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Veggies

Start by washing all your mixed greens thoroughly under cold water. Spin them dry using a salad spinner or pat them down gently with paper towels. Nobody likes a soggy salad!

Step 2: Chop It Up

Dice your cherry tomatoes in halves and slice your cucumber into thin rounds. Chop those crunchy apples into bite-sized pieces that are just begging to be devoured.

Step 3: Shred the Carrots

Grab a grater or use pre-shredded carrots from the store if you’re feeling lazy—no judgment here! Toss them into your big mixing bowl along with your greens.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey, and Dijon mustard until well combined. Taste it—if it doesn’t make you do a little happy dance, adjust according to your preference!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add all chopped veggies into your mixing bowl. Drizzle that fabulous dressing over everything and toss gently until everything is coated in tangy goodness.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Transfer your colorful creation onto serving plates or bowls. Sprinkle toasted nuts on top for added crunch! Enjoy this vibrant harvest salad as a side dish or as a meal on its own.

And there you have it! An irresistible Harvest Chopped Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette that sings autumn vibes in every bite. Whether enjoyed at Thanksgiving dinner or prepared for lunch during those busy workdays, this salad will definitely become one of your go-to recipes!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by prepping all your fresh ingredients first; chop those crisp apples, vibrant greens, and other veggies. Once everything is ready, whip up that zingy apple cider vinaigrette to really bring out those flavors before tossing everything together in a large bowl.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in seasonal ingredients based on what’s available. Add nuts for crunch, cheese for creaminess, or even dried fruits for sweetness. The beauty of this salad is how easy it is to make it uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you plan to reheat, keep the vinaigrette separate until just before serving to maintain that fresh taste.

I once brought this Harvest Chopped Salad to a potluck, and let me tell you—everyone was raving about it! Some even asked for my secret ingredient; little did they know it was love and a splash of apple cider vinegar!

FAQs :

What ingredients are in a Harvest Chopped Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette?

A Harvest Chopped Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette typically includes fresh greens like romaine or spinach, chopped apples for sweetness, and a variety of colorful vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, and red onions. Nuts like walnuts or pecans add crunch, while feta cheese provides a creamy texture. The apple cider vinaigrette enhances the flavors with its tangy sweetness, making this salad both nutritious and delicious.

How do I make the Apple Cider Vinaigrette?

To make the Apple Cider Vinaigrette for your Harvest Chopped Salad, mix together equal parts apple cider vinegar and olive oil. Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for depth of flavor and a bit of honey or maple syrup to balance the acidity. Whisk until well combined and season with salt and pepper to taste. This simple dressing complements the fresh ingredients beautifully.

Can I customize the Harvest Chopped Salad recipe?

Absolutely! The beauty of a Harvest Chopped Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette lies in its versatility. Feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal fruits or veggies. You can add roasted butternut squash for warmth or substitute nuts based on your preference. Experimenting with different cheeses or proteins like grilled chicken can also enhance the dish, making it uniquely yours.

How long can I store leftover Harvest Chopped Salad?

If you have leftovers from your Harvest Chopped Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Ideally, enjoy your salad within two days for optimal freshness. However, be mindful that the dressing can cause the greens to wilt over time, so store the vinaigrette separately if possible until you’re ready to eat.

Conclusion for Harvest Chopped Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette :

In summary, the Harvest Chopped Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette is a delightful combination of fresh ingredients that offer both taste and nutrition. With its vibrant colors and textures, this salad is perfect for any occasion. The homemade apple cider vinaigrette elevates the flavor profile while allowing customization to suit individual preferences. Enjoy this seasonal dish as a side or main course for a satisfying meal that everyone will love!

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Harvest Chopped Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

• Author: Lilly
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: N/A
• Total Time: 50 minute
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Experience the vibrant flavors of autumn with this refreshing Harvest Chopped Salad, featuring crisp vegetables and a tangy apple cider vinaigrette. Perfect for any occasion!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, romaine)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1 large tart apple (Granny Smith), diced
• 1 cup carrots, shredded
• 1/2 cup pecans or walnuts, toasted
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

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Instructions

1. Wash mixed greens thoroughly and spin dry or pat with paper towels.
2. Halve cherry tomatoes, slice cucumber into thin rounds, and dice the apple into bite-sized pieces.
3. Shred carrots using a grater or use pre-shredded ones for convenience.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey, and Dijon mustard until well combined. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. In a large mixing bowl, add all chopped vegetables and drizzle the dressing over them. Toss gently until everything is coated evenly.
6. Transfer to serving plates or bowls, sprinkle with toasted nuts, and enjoy your colorful harvest salad as a side dish or main course.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salad bowl (about 250g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 35mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: - For extra flavor, toast your nuts before adding them to the salad. - Feel free to customize by adding seasonal fruits or vegetables. - Store leftovers in an airtight container; keep dressing separate if possible to maintain freshness.