Oh, let me tell you about my Chopped Autumn Salad! It’s this vibrant, fresh creation that just screams fall. Imagine crisp apples and juicy pears dancing with mixed greens, all sprinkled with crunchy walnuts and sweet cranberries. I whip this salad up when I want something light yet satisfying, and it’s perfect for those cozy autumn evenings. Trust me, the colors alone will brighten your table! Plus, it’s a breeze to make, so I can whip it together in no time. You’ll absolutely love how this Chopped Autumn Salad brings the flavors of the season to life!

Ingredients for Chopped Autumn Salad

Using fresh ingredients is crucial for making this Chopped Autumn Salad truly shine! Each component adds its own unique flavor and texture, making every bite a delight. Here’s what you’ll need:

4 cups mixed greens: Use a mix of your favorites—arugula, spinach, and romaine work beautifully together.
1 cup chopped apples: I love using sweet and crispy varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for that perfect crunch.
1 cup sliced pears: Juicy pears add a lovely sweetness; Bartlett or Anjou are fantastic choices.
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped: These provide a nice crunch and a dose of healthy fats—toast them for extra flavor!
1/2 cup cranberries: Dried cranberries bring a pop of sweetness; they’re like little bursts of autumn.
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled: Feta adds a creamy, tangy element that balances the sweetness perfectly.
1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette: This dressing ties it all together, giving a zesty finish to your salad.

Feel free to get creative with the ingredients, but I promise sticking to these fresh picks will make your salad sing!

How to Prepare Chopped Autumn Salad

Preparing this Chopped Autumn Salad is a breeze, and it comes together in just minutes! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a colorful dish ready to impress.

Step-by-Step Instructions

First, wash and dry the mixed greens thoroughly. I like to use a salad spinner for this—it really helps get rid of excess moisture!
Next, chop the apples and pears into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they’re roughly the same size for a beautiful presentation.
In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, chopped apples, sliced pears, walnuts, and cranberries. Just toss them together gently to mix!
Now, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top. This adds such a lovely creaminess to the salad.
Finally, drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over everything, and toss gently one more time to coat the ingredients evenly.
Serve immediately, and watch your friends and family dig in!

And there you have it! A fresh, delightful Chopped Autumn Salad that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s super quick to throw together—perfect for busy weeknights!
Every bite is a burst of autumn flavors with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Colorful and vibrant, it’s a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds!
It’s versatile—you can easily customize it to fit your taste or what you have on hand.
Great as a side dish or even a light main course, making it perfect for any occasion.
Healthy and satisfying, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy the season’s bounty.

Trust me, once you try this Chopped Autumn Salad, it’ll quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!

Tips for Success with Chopped Autumn Salad

To make your Chopped Autumn Salad absolutely stellar, here are some pro tips that I swear by!

Embrace seasonal fruits: Using apples and pears that are in season not only enhances the flavor but also gives your salad that fresh, crisp taste we all love.
Adjust the dressing: Don’t be afraid to play with the balsamic vinaigrette! If you like it tangier, add a splash more, or if you prefer a milder flavor, drizzle a bit less. Taste as you go!
Toast the walnuts: A quick toast in a dry skillet brings out their natural oils and adds a deeper flavor—trust me, it makes a difference!
Make it ahead: You can prep everything ahead of time! Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to avoid soggy greens.
Experiment with textures: Add some crunchy croutons or swap the feta for goat cheese for a different creamy twist. The more you play around, the more fun your salad will be!

With these tips, you’ll be whipping up a Chopped Autumn Salad that’s not only delicious but also truly eye-catching!

Variations of Chopped Autumn Salad

The beauty of this Chopped Autumn Salad is that it’s totally customizable! Here are some fun variations to keep things exciting and cater to your personal taste:

Nutty Twist: Swap out the walnuts for pecans or hazelnuts for a different crunch. You can even use pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option!
Cheese Swap: If feta isn’t your thing, try crumbled goat cheese or sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor. Each cheese brings its own unique character to the salad!
Dressing Delight: Mix it up with different dressings! A honey mustard vinaigrette or a creamy ranch can be delightful alternatives. Just think about what flavors you love!
Fruit Fusion: Add other seasonal fruits like pomegranate seeds or diced oranges for an extra burst of sweetness and color. You can even throw in some roasted butternut squash for a heartier touch!
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like chopped mint or basil for a refreshing twist that elevates the entire flavor profile. It’ll make your salad pop with freshness!
Grain Booster: For a more filling option, add cooked quinoa or farro. This not only adds texture but also makes it a more nutritious meal.

Remember, the sky’s the limit! Feel free to get creative and use what you have on hand. The key is to have fun and enjoy the process of making this Chopped Autumn Salad your own!

Nutritional Information for Chopped Autumn Salad

Let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into this Chopped Autumn Salad! It’s not just a feast for the eyes, but it’s also a wholesome option that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories: 250
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 200mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 15g
Protein: 6g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on typical ingredients, so they can vary a bit depending on what you use. But one thing’s for sure—you’re getting a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals with every crisp, colorful bite! Enjoy knowing that you’re nourishing your body while relishing the flavors of autumn.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

If you happen to have leftovers of this delightful Chopped Autumn Salad, don’t worry—storing it properly is super easy! To keep your salad fresh, I recommend transferring it to an airtight container. Just be sure to store it without the dressing. This way, the mixed greens stay crisp and vibrant, and you can avoid any sogginess.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply drizzle on the balsamic vinaigrette right before serving. This keeps everything fresh, bright, and delicious! The salad can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but I bet it won’t last that long once your family gets a taste! Just remember, salad is best enjoyed fresh, so try to finish it off within a few days for the best flavor and texture.

FAQ about Chopped Autumn Salad

Can I make this Chopped Autumn Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare all the ingredients in advance—just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This way, your greens stay crisp and fresh!

What can I serve with this salad?
This salad is super versatile! It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or salmon for a heartier meal, or you can serve it alongside a warm soup on a chilly day. It also makes a fantastic side dish for holiday gatherings!

How do I store leftovers?
For any leftovers, store your Chopped Autumn Salad in an airtight container without the dressing. This will help maintain the freshness and crunchiness of the greens. It should stay good for about 3 days in the fridge!

What if I don’t like feta cheese?
No problem at all! You can easily swap out feta for goat cheese, blue cheese, or even leave it out completely. The salad will still be delicious and satisfying!

Can I add protein to this salad?
Definitely! Adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even some crispy bacon can turn this Chopped Autumn Salad into a filling meal. Just toss it in with the other ingredients, and you’re good to go!

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep. Just pack the ingredients separately and combine them when you’re ready to eat. This keeps everything fresh and ensures your salad stays tasty throughout the week.

Chopped Autumn Salad: 5 Simple Steps for Delightful Freshness

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Salad
Method: Toss
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A fresh and colorful salad perfect for autumn.

Ingredients

Scale

4 cups mixed greens
1 cup chopped apples
1 cup sliced pears
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
1/2 cup cranberries
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette

Instructions

Wash and dry the mixed greens.
Chop the apples and pears into bite-sized pieces.
In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, apples, pears, walnuts, and cranberries.
Add the feta cheese on top.
Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and toss gently.
Serve immediately.

Notes

Use seasonal fruits for the best flavor.
Adjust the dressing to your taste.
This salad can be made ahead of time; add dressing just before serving.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 250
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 200mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: Chopped Autumn Salad

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