Thanksgiving is a time to gather around the table and share delicious food with loved ones. Imagine surprising your guests with unique fall salads that capture the essence of the season.
Roasted Butternut Squash and Pomegranate Salad
Fall Harvest Roasted Butternut Squash and Pomegranate Salad. from Half Baked Harvest
Rating: 4.3. Total Time: 45 min.
Roasted Butternut Squash Salad with Feta and Pomegranate from Dished by Kate
Rating: 5. Total Time: 50 min.
Imagine the sweet, nutty flavor of roasted butternut squash mingling with the tartness of pomegranate seeds. This salad combines these flavors into a colorful and vibrant dish. Arugula adds a peppery kick, while feta cheese lends a creamy texture.
The roasted butternut squash becomes caramelized and tender, perfectly complementing the delicate crunch of the pomegranate seeds. This salad is special because it uses a simple balsamic vinaigrette that ties all the flavors together, making each bite a harmonious blend of sweet, tart, and savory. It’s a crowd-pleaser that adds a pop of color to your Thanksgiving table.
Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad
This salad brings together the crisp sweetness of apples with the earthy crunch of walnuts and the tangy burst of dried cranberries. It’s a refreshing and light option that balances out the heavier Thanksgiving dishes.
The combination of flavors and textures is what makes this salad stand out. The juicy apples and chewy cranberries are complemented by the nutty, slightly bitter flavor of the walnuts. A honey mustard dressing enhances the natural sweetness and adds a zesty finish. It’s like a walk through a fall orchard, right on your plate.
Perfect for those who enjoy a touch of sweetness in their salads, this dish is both elegant and rustic, making it a versatile addition to your holiday menu.
Pear and Blue Cheese Salad with Candied Pecans
Pear and Blue Cheese Salad with Candied Pecans from Show Me the Yummy
Rating: 5. Total Time: 15 min.
If you’re a fan of bold flavors, this salad is for you. Juicy pears and creamy blue cheese are paired with candy-like pecans for a salad that’s both sweet and savory.
The contrast between the creamy, sharp blue cheese and the sweet, crunchy pecans creates a balance that’s simply irresistible. What makes this salad particularly special is the homemade candied pecans, which add a delicious sweetness and crunch. A drizzle of balsamic glaze ties everything together beautifully.
This salad feels indulgent yet sophisticated, making it a stunning starter or side dish for your Thanksgiving feast.
Kale and Quinoa Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing
Kale and Quinoa Salad with Maple Dijon Grilled Chicken from Smells Like Home
Rating: 5. Total Time: 9 h 35 min.
Vegan Kale & Quinoa Salad with Roasted Beets and Maple Mustard Dressing from The Full Helping
Rating: 4.8. Total Time: 40 min.
Fall Sweet Potato, Kale + Quinoa Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing from White Sparrow Food Company
Total Time: 27 min.
For a nutrient-packed option, this kale and quinoa salad is both hearty and healthy. The maple Dijon dressing adds a delightful sweetness that complements the earthy flavors.
Quinoa brings a nutty flavor and fluffy texture, while kale provides a robust and slightly bitter taste. The maple Dijon dressing is what elevates this salad, with its sweet and tangy flavors that enhance every ingredient. Chopped almonds add an extra crunch, making each bite satisfying.
It’s a wholesome salad that doesn’t skimp on flavor, perfect for those looking to incorporate more greens into their Thanksgiving meal.
Brussels Sprout and Bacon Salad
Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad from Half Baked Harvest
Rating: 4.5. Total Time: 30 min.
Brussels sprouts and bacon are a match made in heaven, and this salad showcases their perfect partnership. The smoky, savory bacon complements the nutty, slightly bitter taste of Brussels sprouts.
What makes this salad irresistible is the way the Brussels sprouts are shredded, allowing them to soak up the savory bacon drippings. Tossed with a light vinaigrette and sprinkled with toasted pine nuts, this salad is both hearty and flavorful.
It’s a great way to introduce Brussels sprouts to those who might be on the fence about this cruciferous vegetable. The bacon adds a familiar and comforting flavor that makes it hard to resist.
Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
Roasted Beet Salad with Walnuts, Goat Cheese & Honey-Dijon Vinaigrette from Once Upon a Chef
Rating: 4.9. Total Time: 20 min.
Roasted beets bring a sweet earthiness to this salad, which is beautifully complemented by the creamy, tangy goat cheese. It’s a visually stunning dish thanks to the vibrant color of the beets.
This salad is all about the balance of flavors. The sweet, earthy beets pair perfectly with the creamy goat cheese, while a sprinkle of walnuts adds a satisfying crunch. A simple vinaigrette enhances these flavors without overpowering them.
The result is a salad that’s both elegant and full of flavor, making it a perfect addition to any Thanksgiving spread.
Warm Farro Salad with Roasted Vegetables
This warm salad is a cozy addition to your Thanksgiving table. Nutty farro is combined with an array of roasted vegetables, creating a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying.
The beauty of this salad lies in its versatility. Roasted carrots, sweet potatoes, and red onions bring a natural sweetness, while farro provides a chewy texture. A lemony dressing adds a bright note that keeps the flavors fresh and lively.
It’s a salad that feels like comfort food, perfect for those chilly fall days. You can easily customize it with your favorite seasonal vegetables, making it a flexible and delicious option for any Thanksgiving meal.
Pro Tricks for Amazing Fall Salad Recipes
Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad from Half Baked Harvest
Rating: 4.5. Total Time: 30 min.
Balance Your Flavors
When making fall salads, aim for a balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. Use ingredients like fruits, nuts, and cheeses to create a harmonious blend that tantalizes the taste buds.
Use Fresh, Seasonal Ingredients
Incorporate the freshest seasonal produce to enhance the flavors of your salads. Fall staples like squash, apples, and pears not only taste great but also add beautiful color and texture.
Play with Textures
Incorporate a variety of textures to keep your salads interesting. Mix creamy ingredients with crunchy nuts or seeds, and add chewy grains like quinoa or farro for a satisfying bite.











