Autumn Harvest Salad with Grapes and Pecans

A vibrant autumn salad featuring crisp greens, juicy grapes, crunchy pecans, and a light dressing, ideal as a stand‑alone lunch or side.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad brings fresh textures together: sweet grapes, tart pomegranate seeds, crisp apple, and toasted pecans. The balanced dressing brightens every forkful.

ingredients

mixed salad greens
red grapes
diced apple
pomegranate seeds
toasted pecans
pumpkin seeds
vinaigrette dressing

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

directions

1. Combine greens, grapes, apple, seeds, and nuts in a large bowl.
2. Toss with dressing just before serving to maintain crispness.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Preparation: 15 minutes
Total: 15 minutes

Variations

• Add cheese such as feta or goat cheese.
• Substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans.
• Use a honey mustard dressing for sweetness.

storage/reheating

Store undressed in refrigerator up to 2 days. Dress immediately before serving.

FAQs

Can this be made ahead?

Yes, assemble ingredients without dressing until serving.

What dressing works best?

A light vinaigrette or citrus‑based dressing complements the fruit.

Can I add protein?

Grilled chicken or chickpeas are excellent additions.

How do I keep apples from browning?

Toss slices with a little lemon juice before assembly.

Is it suitable for vegan diets?

Yes, with a vegan dressing.

Can I replace grapes?

Diced pears or dried cranberries are good alternatives.

Are pumpkin seeds necessary?

They add texture but can be omitted.

Can I serve this warm?

The salad is best served chilled.

How many calories per serving?

Calories depend on dressing and nuts; estimate moderate.

Is this gluten‑free?

Yes, naturally gluten‑free.

Conclusion

This autumn harvest salad is refreshing, nutritious, and versatile, ideal for seasonal meals or year‑round enjoyment.

Autumn Harvest Salad with Grapes and Pecans

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Autumn Harvest Salad with Grapes and Pecans is a vibrant and wholesome salad that celebrates the flavors of fall with crisp apples, juicy grapes, crunchy pecans, and a tangy maple vinaigrette.

• Author: Emma Harper
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6 cups mixed salad greens (such as arugula, spinach, and romaine)
• 1 cup red or green grapes, halved
• 1 medium apple, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup toasted pecans
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, grapes, apple slices, toasted pecans, red onion, dried cranberries, and cheese if using.
2. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently to coat.
4. Serve immediately as a side dish or light main course.

Notes

• To prevent apples from browning, toss slices with a bit of lemon juice before adding to the salad.
• You can substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans.
• Use goat cheese for a creamier, tangier flavor or omit cheese for a vegan version.
• Great served with grilled chicken or roasted squash for a heartier meal.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 11g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 5mg