Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Autumn Waldorf Salad is a vibrant and nourishing dish that combines the best of fall produce and textures. Roasted butternut squash adds a comforting warmth and sweetness, while apples and grapes bring crispness and juiciness. The toasted walnuts offer a delightful crunch, and the creamy dressing ties everything together with just the right balance of sweetness and tang. It’s an easy-to-make salad that’s perfect for cozy gatherings or as a healthy, satisfying meal any time of the year.

Ingredients

2 cups roasted butternut squash, cubed
2 medium apples, cored and chopped
1 cup red or green grapes, halved
½ cup walnuts, toasted
2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, or kale)
¼ cup celery, thinly sliced
¼ cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)

For the Dressing:

½ cup plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
½ teaspoon cinnamon
Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: For a richer flavor, you can use mayonnaise instead of Greek yogurt in the dressing. If you’re looking for a vegan version, use dairy-free yogurt and maple syrup instead of honey.)

Directions

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and golden brown.

Step 2: Toast the Walnuts

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts for 5-7 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), cinnamon, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the roasted squash, chopped apples, halved grapes, toasted walnuts, mixed greens, and celery. Add dried cranberries or raisins if using.

Step 5: Toss and Serve

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately as a side dish or light main course.

Servings and Timing

Yield: 4 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Nuts: If you prefer a different nut, try pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts instead of walnuts for a different texture and flavor.
Dressing Options: For a vegan version, substitute Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt and honey with maple syrup.
Add Protein: For a heartier salad, you can add grilled chicken, tofu, or quinoa.
Fruit Substitutes: Swap out the apples for pears, or add some pomegranate seeds for a burst of color and sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, keep the dressing separate to prevent the greens from wilting.
Reheating: This salad is best served fresh. However, you can warm up the roasted butternut squash if desired before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the roasted squash, toasted walnuts, and chopped veggies ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Add the greens and dressing just before serving for the best texture.

How do I prevent the apples from browning?

To prevent the apples from browning, you can toss them with a little lemon juice before adding them to the salad.

Can I use pre-cut butternut squash?

Yes, you can use pre-cut butternut squash to save time. Just make sure to adjust the roasting time based on the size of the cubes.

Can I use other greens for this salad?

Yes, you can substitute mixed greens with arugula, spinach, or even baby kale for a slightly different flavor profile.

Conclusion

The Autumn Waldorf Salad is a beautiful, flavorful salad that showcases the best of fall produce. With roasted butternut squash, crisp apples, juicy grapes, and crunchy walnuts, it’s the perfect addition to your autumn or winter meals. The creamy cinnamon dressing brings it all together, making this salad an irresistible choice for any gathering or cozy dinner at home. Enjoy this refreshing twist on a classic, and delight in the flavors of the season!

Autumn Waldorf Salad