Autumn Chopped Salad

 An Autumn Chopped Salad is a hearty, seasonal dish that combines the flavors of fall with fresh, crisp vegetables, roasted nuts, and a tangy dressing. It’s perfect for a cozy autumn meal, either as a main dish or side. Here’s a delicious recipe for you:

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

4 cups mixed greens (baby spinach, arugula, or kale)

1 apple (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), cored and diced

1/2 cup roasted butternut squash or sweet potato, cubed

1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins

1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts (or a mix)

1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese (optional)

1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

1/4 cup pomegranate seeds (optional, for extra color and flavor)

For the Dressing:

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Salad Ingredients:

1. Roast the Squash or Sweet Potato: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cube the butternut squash or sweet potato and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it out on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized. Allow it to cool slightly before adding it to the salad.

2. Prepare the Apple and Vegetables: While the squash is roasting, slice the apple and red onion. If you're using pomegranate seeds, prepare them at this time as well.

3. Toast the Nuts: In a dry skillet, toast the pecans or walnuts over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Set aside to cool.

Make the Dressing:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Assemble the Salad:

1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, roasted squash or sweet potato, diced apple, red onion, dried cranberries, toasted nuts, and pomegranate seeds (if using).

2. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

3. Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese or feta on top (optional).

Serve:

Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, warm flavors of autumn in every bite.

Tips:

Make it Protein-Packed: Add grilled chicken, turkey, or roasted chickpeas for extra protein.

Customization: Feel free to swap ingredients depending on what's in season or your preferences. Roasted Brussels sprouts or pears can be great alternatives to the squash.

Make Ahead: To make the salad in advance, keep the dressing separate from the salad until you're ready to serve.

This Autumn Chopped Salad is full of vibrant colors, flavors, and textures, making it a perfect addition to your fall meals. It’s healthy, satisfying, and bursting with seasonal ingredients!