As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, I find myself craving vibrant, hearty dishes that celebrate the season. This Fall Chopped Salad with Spinach, Butternut Squash, Apples & Cheddar is just that—a delightful medley of flavors and textures that’s perfect for busy days or cozy gatherings. It’s quick to whip up, making it an ideal solution for those hectic evenings when you want something nutritious yet satisfying. Plus, it’s a dish that will impress your loved ones, bringing a touch of autumn to your table with every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Fall Chopped Salad with Spinach, Butternut Squash, Apples & Cheddar
This Fall Chopped Salad is a true gem for busy moms and professionals alike. It’s not just quick to prepare; it’s also bursting with flavors that dance on your palate. The combination of sweet butternut squash, crisp apples, and sharp cheddar creates a delightful harmony. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence. You’ll love how it brightens up your autumn meals while keeping things simple and delicious!
Ingredients for Fall Chopped Salad with Spinach, Butternut Squash, Apples & Cheddar
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this vibrant Fall Chopped Salad. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Fresh spinach: This leafy green is the base of our salad, providing a nutritious and colorful foundation.
- Butternut squash: Sweet and creamy when roasted, it adds a lovely autumn flavor and a pop of color.
- Apple: Choose a crisp variety like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for a refreshing crunch and a hint of sweetness.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: This cheese brings a tangy richness that perfectly complements the other ingredients.
- Walnuts: These nuts add a delightful crunch and healthy fats, making the salad more satisfying.
- Dried cranberries: Their sweetness balances the savory elements, adding a burst of flavor and color.
- Olive oil: A drizzle of this healthy fat helps to bring all the flavors together and adds richness.
- Apple cider vinegar: This tangy dressing ingredient brightens the salad and enhances the flavors.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate the taste of every ingredient.
Feel free to get creative! You can substitute the apple with a pear for a different twist. If you’re looking for a vegan option, simply omit the cheddar cheese or swap it for a plant-based alternative. For those busy days, you can prep the salad ahead of time; just remember to add the dressing right before serving to keep everything fresh. Exact quantities for each ingredient can be found at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Fall Chopped Salad with Spinach, Butternut Squash, Apples & Cheddar
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s preheat that oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that the butternut squash roasts evenly. If you skip this step, you might end up with unevenly cooked squash—some pieces might be mushy while others remain hard. Trust me, a good roast starts with a hot oven!
Step 2: Prepare the Butternut Squash
Next, grab your diced butternut squash and toss it in a bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper. This step is all about coating the squash evenly, so every bite is flavorful. Once coated, spread the squash out on a baking sheet in a single layer. This allows the heat to circulate around each piece, giving you that lovely caramelization we all crave.
Step 3: Roast the Butternut Squash
Now, it’s time to roast! Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and let the squash roast for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want it to be tender and slightly caramelized. When it’s done, the edges should be golden brown, and the squash should be soft enough to pierce with a fork. This roasting brings out the natural sweetness, making it a star in your Fall Chopped Salad.
Step 4: Combine the Salad Ingredients
In a large bowl, it’s time to bring everything together! Start with the fresh spinach, then add the roasted butternut squash, diced apple, shredded cheddar cheese, walnuts, and dried cranberries. Each ingredient adds its own unique flavor and texture, creating a beautiful medley. Gently mix them together, being careful not to bruise the spinach. We want it to stay vibrant and fresh!
Step 5: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and apple cider vinegar. This dressing is the magic that ties all the flavors together. The tangy vinegar brightens the salad, while the olive oil adds richness. Once it’s well combined, drizzle it over your salad. Don’t skip this step; it’s what elevates your Fall Chopped Salad to a whole new level!
Step 6: Toss and Serve
Finally, it’s time to toss everything together! Use a gentle hand to mix the salad, ensuring all the ingredients are coated in that delicious dressing. Be careful not to bruise the spinach leaves; we want them to look as fresh as they taste. Once everything is combined, serve immediately and enjoy the burst of autumn flavors!
Tips for Success
- Always preheat your oven for even roasting.
- Cut the butternut squash into uniform pieces for consistent cooking.
- Let the roasted squash cool slightly before adding it to the salad to keep the spinach fresh.
- Experiment with different nuts or cheeses to customize the flavor.
- Make the dressing ahead of time and store it in the fridge for quick assembly.
Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet: A standard sheet works, but a rimmed one prevents spills.
- Mixing bowls: Use any size; a large bowl is great for combining ingredients.
- Whisk: A fork can substitute for whisking the dressing.
- Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping the squash and apple.
Variations of Fall Chopped Salad with Spinach, Butternut Squash, Apples & Cheddar
- Swap the cheese: Try feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist.
- Add protein: Grilled chicken or chickpeas can make this salad more filling.
- Change the nuts: Pecans or almonds can add a different crunch and flavor.
- Incorporate grains: Quinoa or farro can add heartiness and extra nutrients.
- Use seasonal fruits: Pears or pomegranate seeds can bring a fresh, fruity note.
Serving Suggestions for Fall Chopped Salad with Spinach, Butternut Squash, Apples & Cheddar
- Pair with warm, crusty bread for a comforting meal.
- Serve alongside roasted chicken or turkey for a festive touch.
- Enjoy with a glass of crisp white wine or apple cider.
- For a beautiful presentation, serve in a large, shallow bowl.
- Garnish with extra walnuts or cranberries for added flair.
FAQs about Fall Chopped Salad with Spinach, Butternut Squash, Apples & Cheddar
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad ingredients in advance. Just remember to add the dressing right before serving to keep the spinach fresh and vibrant.
What can I substitute for butternut squash?
If butternut squash isn’t available, sweet potatoes or acorn squash work beautifully as alternatives. They’ll still provide that lovely autumn flavor!
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This Fall Chopped Salad is perfect for meal prep. Just store the ingredients separately and combine them when you’re ready to eat. It stays fresh for a few days in the fridge.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even quinoa can be added to make this salad more filling. It’s a great way to turn it into a complete meal.
What dressing pairs well with this salad?
While the olive oil and apple cider vinegar dressing is fantastic, a honey mustard or balsamic vinaigrette would also complement the flavors beautifully. Feel free to experiment!
Final Thoughts
Creating this Fall Chopped Salad with Spinach, Butternut Squash, Apples & Cheddar is more than just a cooking task; it’s a celebration of autumn’s bounty. Each bite is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that warms the heart and nourishes the body. I love how this salad brings my family together, making even the busiest days feel special. Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a festive gathering, this dish adds a touch of seasonal joy to the table. So, grab your ingredients and let the flavors of fall inspire your kitchen adventures!
Print
Fall Chopped Salad with Spinach, Butternut Squash, Apples & Cheddar: A Flavorful Autumn Delight!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant and nutritious fall salad featuring fresh spinach, roasted butternut squash, crisp apples, and sharp cheddar cheese, perfect for autumn gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 large apple, cored and diced
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread it on a baking sheet.
- Roast the butternut squash in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
- In a large bowl, combine the fresh spinach, roasted butternut squash, diced apple, shredded cheddar cheese, walnuts, and dried cranberries.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and apple cider vinegar, then drizzle over the salad.
- Toss the salad gently to combine all ingredients and serve immediately.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute the apple with pear for a different flavor.
- For a vegan version, omit the cheddar cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
- This salad can be made ahead of time; just add the dressing right before serving to keep it fresh.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Roasting and Tossing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Fall Chopped Salad, Spinach Salad, Butternut Squash Salad, Autumn Salad, Healthy Salad