Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the golden leaves start to dance from the trees, I can’t help but sigh with joy at the thought of cozy evenings and warm meals. This Fall Harvest Salad with Warm Maple Bacon Vinaigrette celebrates the season with a delightful medley of crisp apples, juicy pears, and crunchy pecans, all tossed in a bed of vibrant greens. What I adore about this salad is its versatility; it can effortlessly be a stunning side dish at your holiday gatherings or a hearty, standalone meal when topped with grilled chicken. Plus, it’s gluten-free if you skip the croutons! Ready to infuse your plate with the flavor of fall? Let’s dive into this recipe and make mealtime memorable! Why Is Fall Harvest Salad Irresistible? Vibrant, Fresh Ingredients: This salad showcases the best of fall produce, featuring stunning colors and flavors that tantalize the taste buds. Warm, Savory Dressing: The warm maple bacon vinaigrette adds a delightful richness that brings everything together beautifully. Versatility for Any Occasion: Whether as a festive side or a fulfilling main dish, it fits seamlessly into any meal. Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: With a balance of sweet, savory, and creamy elements, it’s bound to impress family and friends alike, making it a must-try for gatherings. Gluten-Free Option: Easily adapt it for dietary needs by omitting croutons and sticking with wholesome ingredients; it’s a flavorful choice everyone can enjoy! Time-Saving Prep: Quick to toss together, you can whip this up any time you’re craving something fresh and satisfying, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining. Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or just want something delicious, this salad is sure to hit the spot. If you’re also in the mood for something else seasonal, don’t miss our delicious Broccoli Crunch Salad for more vibrant flavors! Fall Harvest Salad Ingredients • Dive into the deliciousness with these fresh, seasonal ingredients that make this Fall Harvest Salad unforgettable! For the Salad Mixed Salad Greens – The crisp, fresh base to support all the medley of flavors. Honeycrisp Apple – Adds a perfect crunch and sweetness that sings of autumn. Ripe Pear – Juicy sweetness that beautifully balances the flavors, elevating each bite. Sliced Carrots – Their earthy flavor and vibrant color enhance the overall appeal. Toasted Pecans – Adds a delightful nutty richness and an extra layer of crunch. Thick Applewood Bacon – Provides the savory, smoky touch that ties the flavors together. Blue Cheese – Creamy and bold, it brings a luxurious taste that complements the salad. For the Vinaigrette Pure Maple Syrup – Naturally sweetens the dressing for a lovely, warm flavor. Dijon Mustard – Emulsifies the vinaigrette with a tangy kick that balances sweetness. Red Wine Vinegar – Its acidity cuts through the richness, enhancing the overall flavor. Kosher Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to elevate and enhance each ingredient. Small Shallot – Offers a subtle sharpness that adds depth to the dressing. With this colorful combination of ingredients, your Fall Harvest Salad is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of the season on a plate! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Fall Harvest Salad Step 1: Cook the Bacon Begin by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add 4 slices of thick-cut applewood bacon and cook for about 8-10 minutes, flipping occasionally until they are crispy and golden brown. Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease, allowing it to cool while you prepare the rest of the Fall Harvest Salad. Step 2: Prepare the Vinaigrette In a mixing jar or bowl, combine 1/3 cup of pure maple syrup, 3 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar, 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/8 teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk together until smooth and well-blended, setting it aside for the moment. This will create a luscious warm maple bacon vinaigrette that complements the salad beautifully. Step 3: Assemble the Salad In a large mixing bowl, combine 10 ounces of mixed salad greens with sliced honeycrisp apple, a ripe pear, and sliced carrots. Add the crumbled crispy bacon and toasted pecans. Crumble in about 1/3 cup of blue cheese for that creamy richness. Gently toss together until all the ingredients are evenly mixed, showcasing the vibrant colors of your Fall Harvest Salad. Step 4: Sauté the Shallots Using the skillet with the remaining bacon fat, heat it over medium-low heat. Add diced shallots and sauté for around 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and softened, stirring frequently to prevent burning. This step will enhance the flavor of your warm maple bacon vinaigrette, making it even more delicious as you prepare to bring everything together. Step 5: Simmer the Vinaigrette Pour the reserved maple dressing into the skillet with the sautéed shallots. Stir well and let it simmer on low heat for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. The warm vinaigrette will become fragrant and richly combined, ready to elevate your salad with its smoky sweetness. Step 6: Dress the Salad Drizzle the warm maple bacon vinaigrette over your beautifully assembled Fall Harvest Salad, ensuring an even coating of the dressing across all the ingredients. Toss gently to combine, making sure the vinaigrette envelops each component, and serve immediately. The colors and flavors will meld into a delightful autumn experience that you and your guests will relish. Expert Tips for Fall Harvest Salad Choose Quality Ingredients: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients makes a noticeable difference. Especially opt for good-quality maple syrup for the vinaigrette’s best flavor. Vegetarian Alternatives: For a delightful twist, consider using vegetarian bacon or smoked tempeh instead of bacon, providing a satisfying experience without meat. Keep It Crisp: To maintain the freshness of the salad, serve immediately after tossing with the warm maple bacon vinaigrette. Avoid letting it sit too long, as this can wilt the greens. Adjust the Dressing: If your vinaigrette solidifies after cooling, simply reheat it gently before drizzling over the Fall Harvest Salad to restore its luscious consistency. Don’t Skip the Shallots: Sautéing the shallots enhances the flavor of the vinaigrette. This step is crucial for a depth of flavor that complements the salad beautifully. Fall Harvest Salad Variations Feel free to embrace your creativity and customize this delightful salad to suit your taste or dietary needs! Vegetarian Option: Swap out the bacon for chickpeas or roasted sunflower seeds, providing a protein-packed alternative with a nice crunch. This not only makes the salad meat-free but also adds a new texture that’ll surprise and delight your taste buds. Fruit Boost: Add halved grapes or dried cranberries for an additional sweet pop and lovely color contrast. These fruits will enhance the salad’s sweetness and create lovely contrasts against the savory elements. Nutty Alternative: Use walnuts or sliced almonds instead of pecans for a different nutty flavor. They’ll still give you that satisfying crunch while bringing a distinct taste profile to your dish. Cheese Choices: Opt for crumbled feta or goat cheese in place of blue cheese for a creamier, milder flavor. These cheeses will soften the overall flavor and offer a delightful tang that’s equally delicious. Spicy Kick: Incorporate sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to spice things up. This twist will add heat that contrasts wonderfully with the sweetness of the maple vinaigrette. Citrus Zest: Stir in some orange segments or a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing citrusy note. The bright acidity from the citrus will lift the flavors and provide a lovely brightness to each bite. Roasted Veggies: Mix in some roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a hearty addition. This will turn your salad into an even more filling dish, perfect for those cozy fall nights. For a complete autumn experience, you might enjoy pairing it with a lovely Watermelon Berry Salad for a festive burst of color and sweetness alongside your fall harvest creation! What to Serve with Fall Harvest Salad As autumn drapes the world in warm hues, serve this inviting salad with complementary dishes that embrace the season’s bounty. Grilled Chicken: Juicy and tender, grilled chicken adds protein, making the salad a hearty main dish perfect for cool evenings. Roasted Butternut Squash: The sweet, caramelized flavor of roasted squash brings a delightful contrast to the fresh greens and enhances seasonal vibes. Crispy Sweet Potatoes: Their earthy sweetness pairs beautifully with the salad’s flavors, adding a comforting, hearty component to each plate. Wild Rice Pilaf: The nutty, chewy texture of wild rice offers a lovely contrast, complementing the salad’s crisp ingredients while making for a filling side. Toasted Bread: A warm crusty loaf or toasted baguette served alongside can soak up the warm maple bacon vinaigrette, adding a comforting touch. Seasonal Fruit Platter: Create a vibrant spread of sliced apples, pears, and citrus to echo the fresh fruit in the salad and refresh the palate between bites. Sparkling Cider: Enjoy a glass of sparkling cider to enhance the meal’s delightful flavors with its effervescence and subtle sweetness. Cranberry Sauce: A small side of homemade cranberry sauce can beautifully balance the savory notes of the salad, adding a pop of color and tartness. Pumpkin Cheesecake: Finish on a sweet note with this rich dessert that embraces fall flavors, leaving your guests with a memorable meal experience. Make Ahead Options These Fall Harvest Salad components are perfect for meal prep! You can slice the honeycrisp apple, pear, and carrots up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container with a splash of lemon juice to prevent browning. The maple bacon vinaigrette can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just reheat it gently before serving to restore its warm, rich flavor. To ensure the greens stay crisp, assemble the salad just before serving, mixing in the bacon, pecans, and cheese at the last minute for maximum freshness and crunch. With these make-ahead strategies, you can easily whip up a vibrant meal, saving time on busy weeknights! Storage Tips for Fall Harvest Salad Fridge: Store leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the salad ingredients and warm maple bacon vinaigrette separate to maintain freshness and crispness. Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for this Fall Harvest Salad due to the delicate greens and vinaigrette. The texture and flavors will be compromised upon thawing. Reheating: If you’ve prepared the vinaigrette in advance, gently reheat it in a skillet over low heat until warm before serving again. Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the salad at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and maintain the salad’s vibrant flavors. Fall Harvest Salad with Warm Maple Bacon Vinaigrette Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe apples and pears for the salad? Absolutely! When selecting Honeycrisp apples and ripe pears, look for fruits that feel firm with smooth, unblemished skin. Apples should be free from dark spots or bruises, while pears will yield slightly to gentle pressure when ripe. Both fruits should have a fragrant aroma, which is a great sign of freshness! What’s the best way to store leftover Fall Harvest Salad? For optimal freshness, store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge. To maintain crispness, separate the salad ingredients from the warm maple bacon vinaigrette; it’ll keep well for about 2 days. Just remember to toss it again with the dressing just before serving! Can I freeze the Fall Harvest Salad? Freezing this salad isn’t recommended due to the delicate greens and the vinaigrette. If you freeze it, the textures will suffer, and the salad won’t taste as fresh upon thawing. Instead, if you have leftovers, try storing them in the fridge for a quick lunch the next day! What should I do if my vinaigrette solidifies? Don’t worry; it happens! If your vinaigrette solidifies due to the bacon fat, simply reheat it gently in a skillet over low heat until it becomes liquid again. Stir well to combine, and then drizzle it over your salad for the delicious warmth that brings everything together again! Are there any dietary considerations for this salad? Very! This salad can be easily adapted for various dietary needs. To keep it gluten-free, simply omit croutons and ensure your dressing does not contain gluten. If you’re accommodating vegetarians, you can substitute the bacon with smoked tempeh or chickpeas for a protein boost! Additionally, if you have dairy allergies, using a non-dairy cheese or skipping the cheese entirely works wonders, too. Enjoy experimenting! What if I don’t have some of the ingredients? No problem at all! You can easily customize this Fall Harvest Salad by using substitutes. For example, if you can’t find blue cheese, feta or goat cheese will work beautifully! Walnuts or almonds can take the place of pecans, and you can switch out the apple variety for Fuji or Gala if preferred. The more the merrier when it comes to creating your own delightful version! Fall Harvest Salad with Maple Bacon Vinaigrette Delight Enjoy this Fall Harvest Salad featuring crisp apples, juicy pears, and crunchy pecans, dressed with warm maple bacon vinaigrette – a perfect seasonal dish! Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 25 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: SaladCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Salad10 ounces Mixed Salad Greens1 Honeycrisp Apple sliced1 Ripe Pear sliced1 cup Sliced Carrots1/2 cup Toasted Pecans4 slices Thick Applewood Bacon cooked and crumbled1/3 cup Blue Cheese crumbledFor the Vinaigrette1/3 cup Pure Maple Syrup3 tablespoons Dijon Mustard2 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar1/4 teaspoon Kosher Salt1/8 teaspoon Black Pepper1 Small Shallot diced Equipment Skilletmixing bowlWhiskmeasuring cupsMeasuring spoons Method Step-by-Step InstructionsCook the Bacon: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add 4 slices of thick-cut applewood bacon and cook for about 8-10 minutes, flipping until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a jar, combine 1/3 cup maple syrup, 3 tbsp Dijon mustard, 2 tbsp red wine vinegar, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/8 tsp black pepper. Whisk until smooth and set aside.Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine 10 oz mixed greens, sliced honeycrisp apple, ripe pear, and sliced carrots. Add crumbled bacon and toasted pecans. Crumble in 1/3 cup blue cheese. Toss gently.Sauté the Shallots: In the skillet with remaining bacon fat, heat over medium-low. Add diced shallots and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.Simmer the Vinaigrette: Pour the reserved dressing into the skillet with sautéed shallots. Stir and simmer on low for 2-3 minutes until thickened.Dress the Salad: Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad, ensuring even coverage. Toss gently to combine and serve immediately. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 12gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 550mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg NotesThis salad is versatile and can be served as a side or main dish. For a vegetarian option, substitute the bacon with vegetarian bacon or smoked tempeh. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
