Fall Harvest Steak Salad is a hearty autumn salad featuring grilled steak, roasted butternut squash, crisp apples, and a maple balsamic vinaigrette. As the leaves change colors, this salad brings together a delightful mix of warm and fresh ingredients, making it perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep. Packed with flavor and nutrition, it is a wonderful way to celebrate the season.

Why You’ll Love This Fall Harvest Steak Salad

This autumn harvest steak salad is not just delicious; it also boasts numerous benefits. First, it combines hearty proteins with seasonal vegetables, making it a nourishing meal that satisfies. The sweet and savory elements from the roasted butternut squash and apples create a perfect balance. Additionally, the seasonal steak salad recipe is gluten-free and can be prepared quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Moreover, it’s versatile, allowing you to add unique variations to suit your taste. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal or a show-stopping dish for gatherings, this salad has everything you need!

Ingredients for Fall Harvest Steak Salad

Gather these items:

2 steaks (flank, sirloin, or cut of choice)
2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
1 apple, thinly sliced
1/3 cup candied pecans
4 cups baby spinach or mixed greens
1/4 cup goat cheese or feta, crumbled
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil (for roasting)
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
3 tablespoons olive oil (for dressing)
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Fall Harvest Steak Salad Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast on a baking sheet for 25 minutes, flipping halfway until golden and tender.
Step 2: Season steak with salt and pepper. Sear in a skillet or grill until preferred doneness. Let rest 5–10 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain.
Step 3: In a small bowl or jar, whisk balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 4: In a large bowl or platter, layer greens, roasted squash, apples, red onion, and pecans. Top with sliced steak and goat cheese. Drizzle with dressing and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for the Best Fall Harvest Steak Salad

Keep these in mind:

Use high-quality steak for the best flavor, and consider marinating it for a few hours before cooking.
Don’t skip the resting period for the steak; it helps retain its juices.
For an even richer taste, you can roast the pecans along with the squash.

Nutrition Facts for Fall Harvest Steak Salad

Per 1 salad:

Calories: 520
Protein: 32g
Fat: 34g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 450mg
Cholesterol: 80mg

Nutritional values are estimates.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fall Harvest Steak Salad

What is a fall harvest steak salad?

A fall harvest steak salad is a hearty dish that combines grilled steak with autumn vegetables like butternut squash and fresh fruits such as apples. It’s a seasonal delight that highlights the flavors of fall.

Can I make Fall Harvest Steak Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the roasted vegetables and salad dressing in advance. Just keep everything separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness and crunchiness.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Fall Harvest Steak Salad?

To avoid dryness, ensure that the steak is not overcooked and allow it to rest before slicing. Also, balance flavors by adjusting the sweetness of the dressing to suit your taste.

Variations of Fall Harvest Steak Salad You Can Try

Get creative with these ideas:

Substitute the steak with grilled chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
Add roasted root vegetables like carrots or parsnips for extra flavor and texture.
Incorporate a variety of greens, such as kale or arugula, to enhance the salad’s nutrient profile.

Fall Harvest Steak Salad: 5 Hearty Autumn Flavors - Fall Harvest Steak Salad - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out last recipes or try making sweet potato biscuits for a delightful side. If you’re interested in more autumn flavors, consider making fall harvest pasta salad as well!

For nutritional information, you can refer to Healthline for a deeper understanding of the benefits of seasonal ingredients.

Fall Harvest Steak Salad: 5 Hearty Autumn Flavors

Author: basmer
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

This Fall Harvest Steak Salad is a hearty autumn salad featuring grilled steak, roasted butternut squash, crisp apples, and a maple balsamic vinaigrette.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast on a baking sheet for 25 minutes, flipping halfway until golden and tender.
Season steak with salt and pepper. Sear in a skillet or grill until preferred doneness. Let rest 5–10 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain.
In a small bowl or jar, whisk balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
In a large bowl or platter, layer greens, roasted squash, apples, red onion, and pecans. Top with sliced steak and goat cheese. Drizzle with dressing and serve immediately.