This Fall Salad with Maple-Lime is a colorful mix of fresh greens, crunchy nuts, and sweet fruits. The maple-lime dressing gives it a tasty twist that’s oh-so-refreshing!
Honestly, it’s perfect for those cozy autumn days! I love adding roasted squash or apples for extra yumminess. It’s like a big hug in a bowl! 🥗🍂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Spinach: This leafy green is light and tender. If baby spinach isn’t available, you can use mixed greens or arugula for a peppery kick. I personally love the freshness of spinach.
Radicchio: Its bitterness adds a nice contrast. If you can’t find radicchio, use kale or even green leaf lettuce. They’ll provide a different flavor but will still work well.
Oranges: Fresh oranges are sweet and juicy. If you’re short on oranges, try using mandarins or even some sliced apples for a different taste.
Pecans: These nuts add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor. Walnuts or almonds can be a great substitute. For nut-free options, try roasted sunflower seeds!
Dressing Ingredients: Pure maple syrup is key for sweetness. If you’re not a fan, agave syrup can work well too. Lime juice gives a nice tang, but lemon juice could also be a good substitute.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad is Nicely Coated in Dressing?
Coating your salad evenly with dressing ensures every bite tastes great. Here are some tips:
- Make the dressing first, so all ingredients are ready to go.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad rather than pouring it all at once. This distribution helps cover everything better.
- Use your hands to toss the salad gently. This method is effective and ensures a more careful coating compared to just using tongs.
- Start with a little dressing; you can always add more if needed.
Try to serve immediately after dressing to keep the greens crisp. Enjoy your delicious Fall Salad with Maple-Lime!
Fall Salad with Maple-Lime
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
- 1 cup radicchio or red leaf lettuce, chopped
- 2 medium oranges, peeled and segmented
- 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional, for texture and nutrition)
For the Maple-Lime Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Fall Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a healthy lunch or a light dinner. Just whip up the dressing, mix the greens, and combine all the elements for a refreshing dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Dressing:
Start by whisking together 3 tablespoons of pure maple syrup, 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. Keep this delicious dressing aside!
2. Prepare the Greens:
In a large salad bowl, toss together 4 cups of fresh baby spinach leaves and 1 cup of chopped radicchio or red leaf lettuce. This colorful mix is sure to brighten up your meal!
3. Add Fruits and Nuts:
Now, add the orange segments from 2 medium oranges right on top of your greens. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of roughly chopped pecans and, if you like, 1 tablespoon of chia seeds for an added crunch!
4. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the maple-lime dressing evenly over your colorful salad. This is where all the flavors come together!
5. Toss it All Together:
Gently toss the salad to mix everything well, ensuring that the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly. This will make every bite delightful!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finish by garnishing the salad with 1/4 cup of shaved Parmesan cheese on top. Serve your fresh and scrumptious salad immediately and enjoy those delightful autumn flavors!
Can I Use Different Greens in This Salad?
Absolutely! If you don’t have baby spinach or radicchio, feel free to use any mixed greens, arugula, or kale instead. Just ensure that the greens remain fresh and crisp for the best texture.
How Can I Store Leftover Salad?
To store leftovers, keep the salad components separate from the dressing. Place the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Add the dressing just before serving to prevent wilting.
Can I Prepare the Dressing Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the maple-lime dressing in advance! Just store it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week. Give it a good shake before using, as the ingredients may separate.
What Can I Substitute for Pecans?
If you’re looking for a different nut or want to make it nut-free, try walnuts, almonds, sunflower seeds, or even pumpkin seeds. Each will add a unique flavor and texture to your salad!
