Fall isn’t just about pies and casseroles — it’s also the perfect season for colorful, flavor-packed salads that highlight the harvest.
With ingredients like roasted squash, crisp apples, hearty grains, and toasted nuts, fall salads bring warmth, texture, and depth to your table.
These 26+ fall salad recipes go beyond the basics.
They blend sweet and savory, warm and cool, crunchy and creamy — offering a creative mix of seasonal flavors that are satisfying enough to be meals on their own or vibrant sides for autumn feasts.
Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping Thanksgiving salad or a healthy lunch option packed with fall produce, this collection has something for every mood and menu.
26+ Tasty Fall dessert Recipes Full of Seasonal Flavor and Color
These fall salad recipes are proof that comfort food doesn’t always have to be heavy.
With roasted vegetables, seasonal fruits, crunchy nuts, and creamy cheeses, these dishes offer that warm, cozy feeling — with a fresh twist.
Whether you’re serving them at a fall gathering or making lunch feel a little more special, these salads are here to nourish and impress.
Bring the vibrant flavors of the season to your plate and savor every autumn bite.
Maple Roasted Butternut Squash Salad
The Maple Roasted Butternut Squash Salad captures everything comforting about fall in one dish.
Tender cubes of roasted butternut squash are caramelized in pure maple syrup, bringing warmth and a subtle sweetness to every bite.
Combined with arugula or mixed greens, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy candied pecans, it delivers a satisfying mix of textures and tastes.
A light balsamic vinaigrette ties the salad together, making it perfect as a holiday side or a hearty vegetarian lunch.
Let’s Cook It !Apple Walnut Spinach Salad
The Apple Walnut Spinach Salad is a crisp, refreshing celebration of fall’s most iconic fruit.
Thinly sliced apples bring juicy tartness, perfectly balanced by the earthiness of toasted walnuts and the mild bitterness of baby spinach.
Crumbled blue cheese adds a creamy contrast, while a honey Dijon dressing brings everything into harmony.
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled pork, roasted chicken, or a warm bowl of butternut soup.
Let’s Cook It !Wild Rice Salad with Cranberries and Pecans
The Wild Rice Salad with Cranberries and Pecans is a hearty, grain-based dish bursting with autumnal flair.
Nutty wild rice provides a chewy, satisfying base, layered with sweet dried cranberries, crisp celery, and toasted pecans.
Fresh parsley and green onions add brightness, while a light orange vinaigrette brings a citrusy finish that balances the dish.
It’s a standout addition to any holiday spread, yet sturdy enough to enjoy for days as a make-ahead lunch.
Let’s Cook It !Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
The Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad is an earthy, elegant dish with a gorgeous jewel-toned presentation.
Roasted beets add natural sweetness and depth, while tangy goat cheese melts luxuriously into every forkful.
Pepitas or walnuts give a nutty crunch, and peppery greens like arugula round out the flavor profile.
Drizzle with a red wine vinaigrette and serve it as a vibrant side for grilled meats or as a standalone lunch.
Let’s Cook It !Kale Salad with Roasted Delicata Squash
The Kale Salad with Roasted Delicata Squash delivers both nutrition and cozy fall comfort.
Massaged kale becomes tender and flavorful, layered with golden slices of roasted delicata squash that bring subtle sweetness and an almost creamy bite.
Add crunchy toasted pumpkin seeds and dried cherries for depth and balance.
This salad is ideal served warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile option for both weeknights and holiday gatherings.
Let’s Cook It !Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad
The Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad is a savory, soul-warming twist on a classic green side.
Shredded Brussels sprouts are quickly sautéed or roasted, bringing out their nutty aroma and caramelized flavor.
Tossed with crisp bacon, dried cranberries, and shaved Parmesan, it offers a perfect mix of salty, sweet, and umami-rich flavors.
Serve it warm for a cozy side dish or top it with a poached egg for a satisfying fall brunch.
Let’s Cook It !Harvest Farro Salad
The Harvest Farro Salad is a hearty, texture-rich bowl that brings together nutty grains and vibrant autumn produce.
Chewy farro forms the base, paired with roasted sweet potatoes, juicy pomegranate seeds, and crunchy apples for a perfect seasonal contrast.
Crumbled feta adds a creamy, salty punch, while a maple-mustard vinaigrette ties everything together with tangy warmth.
This salad is just as satisfying on its own as it is served beside roast chicken, turkey, or baked tofu.
It’s ideal for meal prep, potlucks, or as a colorful addition to any fall dinner spread.
Let’s Cook It !Pear Gorgonzola Salad
The Pear Gorgonzola Salad blends elegance with comfort through a sweet-savory flavor profile that’s perfect for fall.
Juicy, ripe pears bring natural sweetness that balances beautifully with the sharp, creamy bite of Gorgonzola cheese.
Toasted walnuts add crunch, while mixed greens offer freshness and structure.
A simple balsamic vinaigrette enhances the flavors with its mellow tang and subtle richness.
Perfect for dinner parties or as a starter to a cozy autumn meal, this salad feels indulgent but light.
Let’s Cook It !Quinoa Pumpkin Salad
The Quinoa Pumpkin Salad is a plant-based powerhouse that’s as nourishing as it is flavorful.
Roasted cubes of pumpkin provide velvety sweetness, contrasting beautifully with fluffy quinoa and crunchy seeds.
Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro add brightness, while a cumin-lime dressing brings a warm, zesty finish.
It’s gluten-free, protein-rich, and makes an excellent lunch, side, or grain bowl base for adding grilled veggies or meat.
Whether served warm or chilled, it brings bold fall flair to the table.
Let’s Cook It !Roasted Carrot Lentil Salad
The Roasted Carrot Lentil Salad is a cozy, earthy dish that’s both rustic and refined.
Sweet, caramelized carrots pair beautifully with tender green or black lentils, creating a protein-rich base.
Add arugula or baby spinach for a pop of green, and finish with a garlicky tahini or lemon dressing.
The aroma of warm spices like coriander or cumin fills the air as you roast, building anticipation for every forkful.
Serve it warm for a comforting dinner side or chilled as a satisfying lunchbox option.
Let’s Cook It !Autumn Chickpea Salad
The Autumn Chickpea Salad brings a burst of plant-based protein and seasonal ingredients together in one vibrant bowl.
Chickpeas are tossed with roasted butternut squash, dried cranberries, and crisp red onions for layers of texture and flavor.
A hint of cinnamon or smoked paprika in the dressing adds depth and warmth to each bite.
It’s a perfect vegan option for fall picnics, potlucks, or holiday spreads.
Hearty enough to stand on its own, yet versatile enough to serve with soups, stews, or grain dishes.
Let’s Cook It !Arugula Apple Salad
The Arugula Apple Salad is crisp, peppery, and just the right amount of sweet — a refreshing break from heavier fall fare.
Sliced tart apples mingle with peppery arugula, toasted pecans, and sharp shavings of Parmesan.
A light apple cider vinaigrette enhances the natural flavors, giving the salad a clean, bright finish.
The textures are irresistible: juicy crunch, leafy greens, and creamy cheese in every forkful.
Serve it alongside a rich pasta, roasted pork, or even a grilled cheese for an elevated autumn meal.
Let’s Cook It !Roasted Pear Salad
The Roasted Pear Salad offers a warm, sweet twist on fresh fruit, perfect for crisp autumn days.
Juicy pears roasted until tender and caramelized bring a fragrant, honeyed aroma that fills your kitchen.
Paired with peppery arugula, crunchy walnuts, and tangy crumbled feta, this salad offers a delightful balance of sweet, bitter, and savory notes.
A drizzle of walnut oil or balsamic glaze enhances the complexity, making it ideal as a sophisticated side dish or a light, elegant lunch.
Its layers of texture and seasonal flavors make it a standout for fall entertaining or a cozy weeknight treat.
Let’s Cook It !Pumpkin Seed Salad
The Pumpkin Seed Salad shines with its crunch and nutrient-packed ingredients that celebrate fall’s harvest.
Toasted pumpkin seeds add a satisfying snap and a rich, nutty aroma that complements mixed greens and roasted root vegetables.
Dried cherries or cranberries bring bursts of tart sweetness, while creamy avocado slices add a luscious mouthfeel.
Tossed with a citrusy vinaigrette, this salad is both refreshing and filling.
Enjoy it as a vibrant lunch on its own or serve alongside roasted poultry or grain bowls for a hearty, balanced meal.
Let’s Cook It !Cranberry Walnut Salad
The Cranberry Walnut Salad is a festive, flavor-forward dish perfect for autumn gatherings.
Tart, ruby-red cranberries burst with juicy tang, contrasting the earthy crunch of toasted walnuts and crisp romaine or spinach leaves.
Feta or goat cheese adds a creamy counterpoint, while a maple Dijon dressing brings subtle sweetness and a hint of spice.
This salad’s layered textures and bright flavors make it a versatile complement to everything from turkey dinners to vegetarian entrees.
It also stores well, making it a great option for make-ahead meals.
Let’s Cook It !Sweet Potato Salad
The Sweet Potato Salad combines the comforting sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with fresh, vibrant ingredients for an irresistible fall dish.
Golden cubes of caramelized sweet potato are tender yet slightly crisp at the edges, releasing a warm, earthy aroma as they roast.
Tossed with kale or spinach, crunchy pepitas, and dried cranberries, this salad bursts with texture and seasonal taste.
A maple or mustard vinaigrette ties the flavors together with a hint of tangy sweetness.
Perfect for meal prep, side dishes, or as a stand-alone lunch that feels both hearty and fresh.
Let’s Cook It !Brussels Sprout Salad
The Brussels Sprout Salad transforms this often-overlooked veggie into a crisp, flavorful autumn delight.
Thinly shredded raw Brussels sprouts provide a satisfying crunch and a slightly nutty flavor reminiscent of cabbage.
Mixed with tart green apples, toasted almonds, and a sharp Parmesan shave, it offers a complex texture profile.
A bright lemon-honey dressing adds zest and balances the natural bitterness.
Enjoy it as a refreshing side dish or add grilled chicken or salmon for a nourishing main course.
Let’s Cook It !Harvest Salad
The Harvest Salad is a vibrant celebration of fall’s bounty, bursting with color and contrasting textures.
Roasted butternut squash, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans create a perfect harmony of sweet, tart, and nutty flavors.
Mixed greens or kale provide a fresh, slightly bitter base, while crumbled goat cheese adds creamy tang.
A warm apple cider vinaigrette brings a cozy spice that ties all the ingredients together.
This salad is a versatile winner — hearty enough to stand alone or a beautiful, seasonal side for your favorite fall meals.
Let’s Cook It !Autumn Beet Salad
The Autumn Beet Salad offers a deep, earthy sweetness that perfectly captures the essence of fall.
Roasted beets provide a tender, juicy base with a subtle smoky aroma that fills the kitchen as they cook.
Paired with crisp arugula, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy walnuts, the salad balances rich and fresh flavors beautifully.
A tangy citrus vinaigrette brightens each bite, making it an excellent side for roasted meats or a satisfying vegetarian main.
Its vibrant colors also make it a stunning addition to any autumn table setting.
Let’s Cook It !Apple Pecan Salad
The Apple Pecan Salad brings a refreshing crunch paired with sweet and nutty notes.
Thinly sliced tart apples mingle with toasted pecans and mixed baby greens, creating a playful mix of textures.
Crispy bacon bits or a sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese add a savory depth that contrasts the sweetness.
Drizzled with a honey mustard dressing, this salad is perfect for casual lunches or as a flavorful side with pork or poultry dishes.
Its balance of bright and hearty makes it a versatile fall favorite.
Let’s Cook It !Harvest Grain Salad
The Harvest Grain Salad combines chewy ancient grains with the rich flavors of seasonal vegetables.
Roasted butternut squash, sweet corn, and dried cranberries add sweetness and texture to a base of farro, barley, or quinoa.
Toasted pumpkin seeds contribute crunch and a subtle nuttiness, while fresh herbs like parsley add a pop of freshness.
A maple-cider vinaigrette coats the salad, bringing warmth and tang to every bite.
Enjoy it warm or chilled, as a side dish or a filling lunch packed with fall nutrition.
Let’s Cook It !Roasted Cauliflower Salad
The Roasted Cauliflower Salad transforms this humble vegetable into a flavorful, hearty dish.
Golden roasted cauliflower florets develop a nutty, caramelized aroma that complements the peppery greens beneath.
Sun-dried tomatoes and toasted almonds add bursts of sweetness and crunch, while crumbled feta lends a creamy, salty touch.
A lemon-tahini dressing brightens the flavors, making this salad a standout accompaniment to grilled dishes or a satisfying vegetarian option.
It combination of warm and fresh textures makes it perfect for fall gatherings.
Let’s Cook It !Cranberry Spinach Salad
The Cranberry Spinach Salad is a classic fall favorite bursting with seasonal flavors.
Sweet-tart dried cranberries add vibrant pops of color and flavor to tender baby spinach leaves.
Crunchy toasted pecans and creamy goat cheese balance the fruit’s tartness with rich, nutty notes.
A zesty orange vinaigrette brings a refreshing citrus kick that ties the ingredients together beautifully.
It’s ideal as a festive side for holiday meals or a bright, healthy lunch option.
Let’s Cook It !Warm Lentil Salad
The Warm Lentil Salad is a comforting and protein-packed dish perfect for cooler days.
Earthy cooked lentils combine with roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips, their natural sweetness enhanced by caramelization.
Fresh herbs and a splash of red wine vinegar add brightness and acidity, balancing the richness.
This salad can be served warm or at room temperature, making it flexible for both casual dinners and elegant holiday spreads.
Its hearty textures and warming flavors make it a satisfying standalone meal or a complement to roasted meats.
Let’s Cook It !Delicata Squash Salad
The Delicata Squash Salad features tender, caramelized slices of delicata squash with a subtle sweetness and creamy texture.
Paired with peppery arugula, toasted pepitas, and dried cherries, it delivers a delightful mix of crunch and chew.
A honey-balsamic dressing adds a perfect balance of sweet and tangy notes that elevate the flavors.
This salad is versatile enough to be served warm or chilled, fitting beautifully into lunch menus or festive dinners.
Its elegant presentation and seasonal ingredients make it a crowd-pleaser for autumn gatherings.
Let’s Cook It !Kale Pomegranate Salad
The Kale Pomegranate Salad is a vibrant, nutrient-dense dish packed with texture and color.
Massaged kale leaves become tender and flavorful, perfectly contrasting the juicy, jewel-like pomegranate seeds.
Crunchy toasted almonds and crumbled feta add savory and nutty layers, while a lemon-honey dressing brings brightness and sweetness.
This salad works wonderfully as a fresh side or a hearty lunch, and its festive appearance makes it ideal for holiday entertaining.
Let’s Cook It !Conclusion
Fall salads are all about layering flavor and texture — and these 26+ recipes make it effortless.
Whether you’re using leftovers, pantry staples, or fresh-from-the-market produce, there’s a salad here that fits your needs.
They’re great for meal prepping, pairing with dinners, or even standing alone as the star of your table.
Mix, match, and make these recipes your own — because fall cooking should be as flexible and fun as it is delicious.
Jessica T. Brown is the founder of KitchenHush.com, a platform born out of her deep love for cooking and the quiet joy found in the kitchen. From a young age, Jessica discovered that the kitchen wasn’t just a place to prepare meals—it was a space for connection, creativity, and comfort. Inspired by those early memories, she created Kitchen Hush to share that experience with home cooks everywhere.