As the leaves turn and the air carries a hint of crispness, I find myself yearning for a dish that captures the essence of fall. Enter the Autumn Chopped Salad with Creamy Sweet Balsamic Dressing—a colorful blend of juicy pears, crispy bacon, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans set atop a bed of vibrant romaine lettuce. This amazing salad not only showcases seasonal ingredients but also doubles as a crowd-pleasing side dish that pairs wonderfully with holiday meals. What’s more, it can be prepped ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the gathering without rushing to the kitchen at the last minute. Are you ready to elevate your autumn dining experience with this delightful recipe?
Why is This Autumn Chopped Salad Special?
Seasonal Ingredients: This salad showcases the best of fall, combining juicy pears, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans that resonate with autumn’s flavors.
Make-Ahead Magic: You can prep all the components in advance, allowing you to enjoy quality time with family during meals.
Flavorful Contrast: The creamy sweet balsamic dressing beautifully balances the savory bacon and sharp cheddar, creating a symphony of tastes.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for holiday gatherings, it’s a dish that everyone will rave about, alongside your favorite roasted turkey or ham.
Visually Stunning: With its vibrant colors, this salad makes for an eye-catching centerpiece that will have everyone reaching for seconds! For more refreshing ideas, check out my Savory Dill Salad for another delightful option.
Autumn Chopped Salad Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create this stunning Autumn Chopped Salad bursting with seasonal flavors!
For the Salad
- Romaine Hearts – A tender yet crunchy base; substitute with regular romaine if needed.
- Red Pear – Provides sweetness and juicy texture; a firm, ripe pear is ideal.
- Bacon – Adds savory flavor and delightful crunch; use thick-cut bacon for best results.
- Maple Pecans – Offer sweetness and crunch; can be homemade or store-bought.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Gives a rich, tangy flavor; feta or pre-shredded cheddar work well as substitutes.
- Dried Cranberries – Contribute a tart kick and vibrant color; ensure they’re sweetened for balance.
For the Dressings
- Balsamic Vinaigrette – Acts as the salad’s base dressing, providing a sweet and tangy flavor; apple cider dressing is a great alternative.
- Poppy Seed Dressing – Adds a creamy texture; store-bought is fine, but homemade is preferred for freshness.
Feel free to mix and match these ingredients to create your perfect Autumn Chopped Salad!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Autumn Chopped Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Maple Pecans
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). If making homemade maple pecans, mix 1 cup of pecans with 2 tablespoons of maple syrup and a pinch of salt. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 10-12 minutes until golden and fragrant. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning, and set aside to cool.
Step 2: Chop the Ingredients
While the pecans cool, grab your sharp knife and cutting board. Carefully chop 1 head of romaine hearts, 1 ripe red pear, 4 slices of thick-cut bacon, and ½ cup of sharp cheddar cheese into ½ to ¾ inch pieces for uniformity. Ensuring everything is evenly chopped will make your Autumn Chopped Salad not only easier to serve but also more visually appealing.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad Layers
In a large mixing bowl, start layering your salad ingredients. Begin with the chopped romaine lettuce at the bottom, creating a lovely base. Then, add the chopped pear, crispy bacon, and maple pecans. Next, sprinkle the sharp cheddar cheese and dried cranberries on top. This method will help highlight each ingredient’s texture and flavor, making your Autumn Chopped Salad inviting and delightful.
Step 4: Make the Dressings
To create the creamy sweet balsamic dressing, combine ⅓ cup of balsamic vinaigrette with ¼ cup of poppy seed dressing in a mason jar. Seal the jar tightly and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until well combined. This step enhances the flavors and ensures every bite of your Autumn Chopped Salad is perfectly dressed and delicious.
Step 5: Dress and Toss the Salad
Once the dressings are thoroughly mixed, pour them over the salad layers in the bowl. Using sturdy tongs, gently toss the salad to coat all ingredients with the dressings. Be careful not to bruise the delicate pear slices. Serve your Autumn Chopped Salad immediately to allow the fresh flavors and textures to shine—it’s best enjoyed right away!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the beautifully tossed Autumn Chopped Salad to a serving platter. Use a large spoon to scoop out portions and serve as a vibrant side dish. Pair it with your favorite holiday meals or enjoy it as a light lunch—you’ll love the delightful medley of flavors and textures in every bite!
What to Serve with Autumn Chopped Salad?
When you want to create a harmonious meal that highlights the essence of fall, consider pairing this vibrant salad with complementary dishes.
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Roasted Turkey: The savory, juicy flavors of a perfectly roasted turkey provide a warm counterbalance to the crisp freshness of the salad. It’s an iconic Thanksgiving combo that everyone adores.
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Honey-Glazed Ham: Sweetness from the glaze enhances the salad’s flavors beautifully. The saltiness of the ham adds depth and creates a delightful contrast with the sweet ingredients in your Autumn Chopped Salad.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky mashed potatoes bring comfort to the table, offering a delicious creamy texture that contrasts with the salad’s crunchy elements. Every forkful will feel indulgent!
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Grilled Chicken: For a lighter option, juicy grilled chicken offers lean protein that pairs well without overshadowing the salad’s vibrant flavors. Top with the same creamy balsamic dressing for a cohesive experience.
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Apple Crisp: As a dessert, this warm apple crisp complements your meal with its sweet, spiced goodness. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to make it even more indulgent!
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Sparkling Cider: A refreshing beverage choice, sparkling cider will brighten your meal. Its light, fruity fizz mirrors the crispness of your salad, enhancing the overall dining experience.
How to Store and Freeze Autumn Chopped Salad
Fridge: Store any leftover salad components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days; this maintains the freshness of the ingredients.
Dressing: Keep the creamy sweet balsamic dressing in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week; be sure to shake well before using.
Freezer: It’s best not to freeze the assembled Autumn Chopped Salad, as the texture of fresh ingredients like romaine and pear will suffer.
Reheating: If using cooked bacon, reheat it in a skillet or microwave before adding to the salad if you prefer it warm.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing this Autumn Chopped Salad ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time during busy weeks or special occasions! You can chop all the salad ingredients, such as the romaine, pear, bacon, cheese, and cranberries up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in airtight containers to maintain freshness. The maple pecans can also be made ahead and stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just toss the salad components in a large bowl, dress with the balsamic and poppy seed dressings, and gently mix. You’ll be delighting your family with a vibrant, flavorful salad that tastes just as wonderful as when it’s freshly made!
Autumn Chopped Salad: Customize Your Dish
Feel free to make this salad your own with these fun and flavorful variations!
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Protein Boost: Adding rotisserie chicken not only makes the salad heartier but also brings in savory goodness that complements the other ingredients.
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Nut-Free Option: For a nut-free twist, replace the maple pecans with crunchy pepitas. They offer a delightful texture without the nut allergens!
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Sweet Crunch: Toss in seasonal fruits like pomegranate seeds for a burst of color and additional sweetness that screams autumn.
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Spicy Kick: If you love a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to add a zesty touch to your salad.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a bright flavor contrast. They not only elevate the taste but also add a fresh aroma!
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Creamy Delight: For a decadent twist, add crumbled blue cheese or goat cheese to introduce a rich creaminess that pairs beautifully with the sweet elements.
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Dressing Variety: Swap the balsamic vinaigrette for an apple cider dressing to infuse an even deeper autumn flavor profile. You might discover a new favorite!
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Vegetarian Twist: To make this salad completely vegetarian, leave out the bacon and add roasted chickpeas for an extra layer of flavor and protein.
Each of these variations gives you the chance to experience the delightful flavors of this Autumn Chopped Salad in new and exciting ways. And if you’re looking for more fresh ideas, be sure to check out my Savory Dill Salad for another delicious option!
Expert Tips for Autumn Chopped Salad
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Crispy Bacon Essential: Ensure the bacon is cooked until crispy before adding it to the salad to prevent it from making the dish soggy.
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Fresh Ingredients Only: Cut the pear just before serving to avoid browning and maintain its juicy texture in your Autumn Chopped Salad.
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Quality Dressings Matter: Use high-quality balsamic and poppy seed dressings to dramatically enhance the overall flavor of your salad.
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Uniform Chopping: Chop all the ingredients into similar sizes (about ½ to ¾ inch) to ensure a delightful texture and a beautiful presentation.
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Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare all components and store them separately in the fridge. Combine and dress just before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh.
Autumn Chopped Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe pears for my Autumn Chopped Salad?
Absolutely! When choosing pears, look for ones that are firm yet slightly yielding to gentle pressure, which indicates ripeness. Avoid pears with dark spots all over, as they may be overripe. If none are available, Honeycrisp or Fuji apples are excellent substitutes!
What is the best way to store leftover Autumn Chopped Salad?
For storing leftovers, I recommend separating the salad components into airtight containers. The greens and fruits should remain crisp for about 3 days in the fridge. This way, each ingredient retains its texture, and you can enjoy a fresh salad at your leisure!
Can I freeze any part of the Autumn Chopped Salad?
It’s best not to freeze the assembled Autumn Chopped Salad, as the texture of fresh ingredients like romaine and pear will deteriorate. However, you can freeze any unused maple pecans for up to 3 months. Just store them in a sealed zip-top bag, and when you’re ready to use them, let them thaw at room temperature.
What should I do if my salad is too soggy?
Very! If your salad turns out soggier than desired, the culprit may be the bacon or dressing. Ensure the bacon is crispy and drained well before adding it to the salad. For the dressing, you can start with a smaller amount and add more gradually until you reach your desired consistency. Don’t fret; a little extra care can save the day!
Are there any dietary restrictions I should consider for this salad?
Absolutely! If you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions, here are a few considerations:.ensure the bacon is turkey or vegetarian if needed. For nut allergies, substitute the maple pecans with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds. Additionally, consider using gluten-free dressings if someone is sensitive to gluten. This versatility makes it a crowd-pleaser!
How can I elevate my Autumn Chopped Salad for a special occasion?
For a charming twist, consider adding elements like crumbled feta or slices of rotisserie chicken for protein. You might also introduce vibrant seasonal fruits, such as pomegranate seeds, to add a pop of color and flavor! Get creative, and personalize the salad to make it your own special offering!
Autumn Chopped Salad: A Colorful Fall Flavor Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). For homemade maple pecans, mix 1 cup of pecans with 2 tablespoons of maple syrup and a pinch of salt. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 10-12 minutes until golden and fragrant.
- While the pecans cool, chop 1 head of romaine hearts, 1 ripe red pear, 4 slices of thick-cut bacon, and ½ cup of sharp cheddar cheese into ½ to ¾ inch pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, layer your salad ingredients starting with the chopped romaine lettuce, followed by the chopped pear, crispy bacon, maple pecans, sharp cheddar cheese, and dried cranberries.
- To make the creamy sweet balsamic dressing, combine the balsamic vinaigrette and poppy seed dressing in a mason jar, seal tightly, and shake for about 30 seconds.
- Pour the dressings over the salad layers and gently toss to coat all ingredients, being careful not to bruise the delicate pear slices.
- Transfer the tossed salad to a serving platter and serve immediately, pairing it with your favorite holiday meals.
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