Easy Fall Salad with Cranberry Vinaigrette Recipe

If you’re craving a vibrant dish that perfectly captures the cozy, fresh flavors of autumn, this Fall Salad with Cranberry Vinaigrette is your new best friend. Packed with seasonal produce, crisp greens, smoky turkey bacon, and a tangy-sweet cranberry dressing, this salad is a delightful blend of textures and colors that celebrate fall’s bounty. Whether you want a light lunch or a stunning side salad for dinner, this recipe brings warmth and brightness to every bite without any fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Seasonal goodness: Uses fresh fall ingredients that highlight the best flavors of autumn.
• Balanced flavors: Combines sweet cranberries and tangy vinaigrette with savory smoked turkey bacon for complexity.
• Simple to prepare: Requires minimal cooking with easy-to-find ingredients for a hassle-free meal.
• Colorful and inviting: A feast for the eyes with vibrant greens, reds, and creamy mozzarella.
• Versatile and filling: Perfect as a main lunch or a side dish to complement any fall feast.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Fall Salad with Cranberry Vinaigrette shines because of its simplicity. Each ingredient contributes to a harmonious balance of flavor, texture, and color that feels fresh and satisfying. Here’s what you’ll gather to get started:

• Fresh mixed greens: A crisp and refreshing base that brings vibrant color and crunch.
• Dried cranberries: Add chewy sweetness that pairs perfectly with the tangy vinaigrette.
• Smoked turkey bacon: Provides a smoky, savory note and a delightful crunch to the salad.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal): Offers creaminess that melts gently into every bite.
• Chopped walnuts: Adds earthy texture and a subtle nutty flavor.
• Apple cider vinegar: Forms the tangy base of the cranberry vinaigrette dressing.
• Olive oil: Balances the acidity of the vinegar and ties the dressing together smoothly.
• Honey or maple syrup: Sweetens the dressing naturally, enhancing the fall flavor profile.
• Dijon mustard: Emulsifies the vinaigrette for a silky texture and a mild kick.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors into perfect harmony.

Variations for Fall Salad with Cranberry Vinaigrette

Feel free to personalize your Fall Salad with Cranberry Vinaigrette to suit your taste buds or pantry staples. This recipe’s flexible foundation means it can adapt beautifully to various preferences and dietary needs.

• Swap the greens: Use kale, spinach, or arugula for different textures and flavors.
• Protein boost: Add grilled chicken or smoked turkey slices for extra heartiness.
• Nut alternatives: Substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for a new nutty twist.
• Fruit swap: Try fresh apple slices or pears instead of dried cranberries for crisp sweetness.
• Vegan option: Skip smoked turkey bacon and add smoked tempeh strips or roasted chickpeas for a smoky crunch.

How to Make Fall Salad with Cranberry Vinaigrette

Step 1: Prepare the smoked turkey bacon

Start by cooking the smoked turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat, then chop it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Mix the cranberry vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and emulsified.

Step 3: Combine salad ingredients

In a large salad bowl, toss fresh mixed greens with dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal), and the crispy smoked turkey bacon pieces.

Step 4: Dress the salad

Pour the cranberry vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss everything together to evenly coat the ingredients without bruising the greens.

Step 5: Serve immediately

Transfer the salad to plates or a large serving bowl, and enjoy the fresh, bright flavors right away for the best texture and taste.

Pro Tips for Making Fall Salad with Cranberry Vinaigrette

• Prep bacon early: Cook smoked turkey bacon ahead and keep it crispy by reheating briefly before serving.
• Dressing consistency: Adjust the thickness of the vinaigrette with a splash of water or more olive oil if needed.
• Mix just before serving: Toss salad and dressing last minute to keep greens from wilting.
• Toast the nuts: Lightly toast walnuts to enhance their flavor and crunch.
• Use fresh greens: Choose crisp, high-quality greens for the best texture and appearance.

How to Serve Fall Salad with Cranberry Vinaigrette

Garnishes

Top your salad with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few whole cranberries to elevate the visual appeal and add fresh, bright notes.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with warm crusty bread, a bowl of butternut squash soup, or roasted root vegetables to round out a hearty fall meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this salad in a hollowed-out pumpkin or a rustic wooden bowl to embrace fall’s charm and add a cozy, festive touch to your table setting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, storing the dressing separately to maintain the greens’ crispness.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so avoid freezing as the textures of the greens and dressing will not hold up well after thawing.

Reheating

No reheating needed; simply add fresh greens and toss with any leftover vinaigrette or make a new batch to keep it crisp and fresh.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Fresh cranberries can be quite tart and firm; if you prefer, cook them slightly with honey to soften and sweeten before adding to the salad.

Is smoked turkey bacon necessary?

While smoked turkey bacon adds lovely flavor and crunch, you can substitute with smoked turkey slices or a plant-based alternative for a different texture.

How long will the cranberry vinaigrette last?

The vinaigrette keeps well for up to a week when refrigerated in a sealed jar; just give it a good shake before using.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes! Simply leave out smoked turkey bacon and shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal), and use smoked tempeh or roasted chickpeas for a smoky, protein-rich alternative.

What greens work best for this salad?

Mixed salad greens like baby spinach, arugula, or spring mix work best to provide a variety of textures and flavors that complement the vinaigrette and toppings.

Final Thoughts

This Fall Salad with Cranberry Vinaigrette is a joyful celebration of the season’s best ingredients, blending fresh, smoky, tangy, and crunchy elements into one delicious dish. It’s an easy way to brighten any meal with wholesome flavors and beautiful colors that truly welcome autumn to your table. Trust me, once you try it, this salad will become a favorite you’ll want to make again and again as the leaves start to turn.

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