Salads

Fall Harvest Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing

September 25, 2025

If you’re craving the flavors of fall in a bowl, this Fall Harvest Salad has you covered. Think roasted butternut squash, crisp apples, candied pecans, vegan feta—and a homemade maple-Dijon dressing that ties it all together. Sweet, smoky, tangy, and utterly satisfying.

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If you’re craving the flavors of fall in one delicious bite, this Fall Harvest Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing is your new best friend.

It’s got everything: roasted butternut squash for sweetness, candied pecans for crunch, tart Granny Smith apples for brightness, and rich vegan feta for that salty umami bite. The base of baby spinach and peppery arugula sets the stage, while dried cranberries and optional pomegranate seeds bring little bursts of color and flavor.

And here’s the twist: smoky veggie bacon + a dash of smoked paprika. Together, they add a savory depth that balances out the sweet and tangy notes. Finally, the homemade maple Dijon dressing ties it all together, slightly sweet, tangy, and utterly irresistible.

This salad is a true celebration of autumn — fresh, festive, and oh-so-satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

✅ Packed with fall flavors and textures in every bite

✅ Works as a side dish or main course
✅ Features a quick, homemade maple Dijon dressing
Vegan-friendly yet crowd-pleasing for everyone

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Fall Harvest Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing

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It’s got everything: roasted butternut squash for sweetness, candied pecans for crunch, tart Granny Smith apples for brightness, and rich vegan feta for that salty umami bite.

The base of baby spinach and peppery arugula sets the stage, while dried cranberries and optional pomegranate seeds bring little bursts of color and flavor.

And here’s the twist: smoky veggie bacon + a dash of smoked paprika. Together, they add a savory depth that balances out the sweet and tangy notes. Finally, the homemade maple Dijon dressing ties it all together, slightly sweet, tangy, and utterly irresistible.

  • Author: Sandra Brooks

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Base

  • 2 cups baby spinach

  • 2 cups arugula

  • 1 cup roasted butternut squash, cubed

  • 1/4 cup candied pecans

  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries

  • 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds (optional, for a fancy touch)

  • 1 small Granny Smith apple, thinly sliced

  • 1/4 cup crumbled vegan feta cheese

  • 23 slices veggie bacon, cooked until crispy and chopped

  • A few dashes smoked paprika

Maple Dijon Dressing

  • 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard

  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Salad Base

In a large bowl, combine baby spinach and arugula. Top with roasted butternut squash, candied pecans, dried cranberries, pomegranate seeds (if using), and sliced apples.

Sprinkle with crumbled vegan feta, then add the crispy chopped veggie bacon. Finish with a few dashes of smoked paprika for that irresistible smoky touch.

2. Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together mustard, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, olive oil, and salt until smooth and emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

3. Dress the Salad

Just before serving, drizzle the Maple Dijon Dressing over the salad. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients.

4. Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors. This salad can shine as a light main dish or as a festive side to any autumn-inspired meal.

Notes

Make ahead: Roast the butternut squash and prep the dressing a day in advance to save time.
Swap the fruit: Try pears instead of apples for a softer sweetness.
Nut-free option: Use roasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds instead of pecans.
Protein boost: Add chickpeas or lentils for a heartier meal.

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Final Thoughts

This Fall Harvest Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing captures the essence of autumn on a plate — warm, cozy, sweet, smoky, and tangy all at once. It’s perfect for a weekday lunch, a holiday gathering, or anytime you want a taste of fall’s bounty.So grab your fork, dig in, and let this salad remind you why fall flavors are the best of the year. 🍁🥗

Close up of salad in bowl

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Fall Harvest Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing

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I'm Sandra, your plant powered docta.

Licensed clinical psychologist + plant-powered foodie on a mission to help women over 40 embrace radical self-care.

I’ve been vegan for 15 years (vegetarian since I was 12 ). Here you’ll find plant-based recipes, hormone-friendly hacks, and a little joy sprinkled in (because health should feel good!).

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