Autumn may be best known for cozy soups and hearty stews, but it’s also the perfect season for rich, flavorful salads that highlight the best of fall produce. From warm and comforting potato salads to bright, crisp greens, these autumn-inspired salads will add variety to your seasonal menu.
1. Bitter Greens Salad with Melted Cheese
You might not think of melted cheese as a salad ingredient, but trust the chef who started the kale salad trend—this works. Bitter greens pair beautifully with the gooey richness of melted cheese, creating a dish that is both satisfying and fresh.
2. Warm Potato Salad with Vinegar & Chorizo
Imagine the tangy, salty kick of salt-and-vinegar chips but in a warm, comforting salad. This version, featuring crispy chorizo, perfectly cooked potatoes, and a splash of vinegar, is packed with bold flavors that capture the essence of autumn.
3. Lentils with Yogurt, Spinach & Basil
Earthy lentils get a bright upgrade with creamy yogurt, fresh basil, and tender spinach. This protein-packed salad is not only delicious but also makes for an excellent meal-prep option, keeping well for lunches throughout the week.
4. Radicchio Salad with Manchego Vinaigrette
This vibrant, slightly bitter salad gets a flavor boost from a clever trick: soaking red onions in basic vinegar to mimic expensive wine vinegars. Combined with radicchio’s crunch and manchego’s richness, it’s a simple yet elegant dish.
5. Kale Salad with Roasted Squash, Almonds & Cheese
Kale salads may no longer be a novelty, but this one—featuring roasted squash, almonds, and two kinds of cheese—proves why they’re still a staple. The balance of textures and flavors makes this an unforgettable autumn dish.
6. (Leftover) Turkey Hash Salad
A perfect post-Thanksgiving meal, this refreshing salad makes great use of leftover turkey. With the added depth of bacon-poached garlic cloves, it’s a light yet flavorful dish that offers a welcome break from heavier holiday meals.
7. Warm Squash & Chickpea Salad
Cozy and satisfying, this vegan-friendly salad features roasted squash and chickpeas tossed in a creamy, garlicky tahini dressing. The hearty ingredients and bold flavors make it a dish that everyone—vegan or not—will love.
These autumn salads prove that fresh, seasonal produce can be just as comforting as warm fall meals. Whether you’re looking for something crisp and refreshing or warm and hearty, these dishes will bring the best of autumn flavors to your table.
