Name: Delicious Fall Cobb Salad Loaded with Autumn Flavors
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 cups Mixed Greens (Feel free to choose your favorite greens.); 4 slices Cooked Bacon (Can be swapped with grilled chicken.); 3 large Hard Boiled Eggs (Quartered for optimal texture.); 2 cups Diced Roasted Butternut Squash (Sweet potatoes are a great substitute.); 1 large Apple (Honeycrisp apples are ideal.); 4 oz Crumbled Goat Cheese (Can substitute with feta or blue cheese.); 1/2 cup Pumpkin Seeds (Pepitas) (Toasted pecans or walnuts work well too.); 1/2 cup Dried Cranberries (Dried cherries can also be used.); 1/4 cup Balsamic Vinegar; 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard; 2 tbsp Maple Syrup (Adjust sweetness to preference.); 1/2 cup Olive Oil; to taste Kosher Salt (Essential for seasoning.); to taste Fresh Black Pepper (Essential for seasoning.)

As I was savoring the hint of autumn in the air, it struck me that nothing quite captures the essence of the season like a vibrant Fall Cobb Salad with Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette. This hearty dish artfully combines roasted butternut squash, crisp apples, and crunchy pepitas, creating a flavorful medley that delights the senses. Not only is this salad a feast for the eyes, but it’s also remarkably easy to prepare, making it perfect for those hectic weekdays or festive gatherings. Plus, it’s gluten-free and can easily be made vegetarian, allowing everyone to enjoy this seasonal ode to fresh ingredients. Are you ready to take your taste buds on an autumnal adventure? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is this Fall Cobb Salad special?

Hearty, Wholesome Ingredients: This Fall Cobb Salad features roasted butternut squash and crisp apples, offering a warming embrace of autumn flavors. Quick to Prepare: Busy schedules won’t stop you; you can whip it up in just 30 minutes! Versatile Options: Whether you prefer bacon, grilled chicken, or a vegetarian twist, this recipe adapts beautifully. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for festive gatherings or quiet family dinners, it’s a dish everyone will love! Nutritious and Delicious: With gluten-free options and wholesome ingredients, this salad doesn’t compromise on health. Don’t forget to check out my other seasonal favorites, like the Mango Cucumber Salad and Pasta Salad Mediterranean for more delightful ideas!

Fall Cobb Salad Ingredients

• Get ready to create this delightful dish!

For the Salad

Mixed Greens – A fresh base; feel free to choose your favorite greens for a crisp bite.
Cooked Bacon – Adds savory crunch; this can also be swapped with grilled chicken for a hearty touch.
Hard Boiled Eggs – Provide protein and creaminess; use three eggs quartered for optimal texture.
Diced Roasted Butternut Squash – Infuses the salad with sweetness and that quintessential fall flavor; sweet potatoes are a great substitute.
Apple – Offers a pleasing crunch and sweet contrast; Honeycrisp apples are ideal for this dish.
Crumbled Goat Cheese – Introduces creamy tang; substitute with feta or blue cheese if you prefer a different taste.
Pumpkin Seeds (Pepitas) – Contributes a delightful crunch and nutty flavor; toasted pecans or walnuts can work well, too.
Dried Cranberries – Adds a sweet, chewy element; consider using dried cherries for a twist.

For the Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette

Balsamic Vinegar – The base of the dressing that provides acidity and depth.
Dijon Mustard – Elevates flavor with a zesty kick.
Maple Syrup – Introduces sweet notes; adjust according to your preference for sweetness in the vinaigrette.
Olive Oil – For a rich mouthfeel and smooth consistency.
Kosher Salt and Fresh Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; use to taste for a perfectly balanced flavor.

Now you have everything you need to prepare this stunning Fall Cobb Salad! It’s time to dive into the kitchen and create a dish that’s bursting with autumnal cheer. 🥗🍂

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Fall Cobb Salad

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure an optimal roasting environment for your diced butternut squash. While the oven heats, gather a foil-lined baking sheet to make clean-up easier after creating your delicious Fall Cobb Salad.

Step 2: Roast the Butternut Squash
On the prepared baking sheet, toss the diced butternut squash with a drizzle of olive oil, adding salt and pepper to taste. Spread it out evenly for roasting and place it in the oven. Roast for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is fork-tender and slightly caramelized, which adds a lovely depth of flavor to your salad.

Step 3: Prepare the Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette
In a small bowl or jar, combine balsamic vinegar, a spoonful of Dijon mustard, and maple syrup. Whisk these ingredients together until well blended. Gradually drizzle in olive oil while whisking, ensuring a smooth and creamy vinaigrette. Season with kosher salt and fresh black pepper to taste, creating a perfect dressing for your Fall Cobb Salad.

Step 4: Layer the Mixed Greens
In a large serving bowl or platter, create a generous base of mixed greens. This vibrant backdrop will beautifully showcase the colorful ingredients to come in your Fall Cobb Salad. Arrange the greens evenly, allowing for plenty of room to layer your other delightful components.

Step 5: Add the Salad Ingredients
On top of the mixed greens, artfully arrange the roasted butternut squash, diced apple, cooked bacon, quartered hard-boiled eggs, and dried cranberries. Next, sprinkle crumbled goat cheese and pumpkin seeds (pepitas) for added crunch and flavor. This layering creates a visually stunning presentation that invites everyone to dig in.

Step 6: Serve the Vinaigrette on the Side
To keep your Fall Cobb Salad fresh and crisp, serve the maple balsamic vinaigrette on the side. This allows guests to dress their own salad according to their personal taste. Enjoy the burst of autumn flavors as you savor this hearty and vibrant dish.

What to Serve with Fall Cobb Salad

Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that perfectly complement the seasonal flavors of your Fall Cobb Salad.

Creamy Potato Soup: The warmth and creaminess of potato soup create a comforting contrast to the crisp salad.
Garlic Breadsticks: Crunchy and flavorful, these breadsticks offer a satisfying texture that pairs beautifully with the salad’s freshness.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their savory, caramelized flavor enhances the sweetness of the butternut squash, making for a harmonious side.
Stuffed Acorn Squash: Bursting with autumn flavors, stuffed acorn squash adds a heartiness that aligns with the seasonal theme.
Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty and fluffy side adds a wholesome touch, balancing the salad’s richness with an elegant texture.
Cranberry Sparkling Water: Refreshing and festive, this drink echoes the tartness of the cranberries while cleansing the palate.
Apple Crisp: A warm dessert with a delightful crunch, apple crisp brings back that comforting nostalgia of fall harvest.
Chardonnay: This crisp white wine offers light notes that enhance the freshness of the salad without overpowering its flavors.

How to Store and Freeze Fall Cobb Salad

Fridge: Store leftover Fall Cobb Salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the maple balsamic vinaigrette separate to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.

Freezer: While it’s best to enjoy the salad fresh, you can freeze roasted butternut squash for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before adding it to your salad.

Reheating: If you choose to reheat the roasted butternut squash, do so gently in the microwave or oven, ensuring it remains tender and flavorful.

Assembly Tips: If meal-prepping, consider storing salad components separately to keep textures crisp and vibrant until you’re ready to enjoy!

Expert Tips for Fall Cobb Salad

Roast in Batches: Roasting butternut squash ahead of time is key. Prep multiple servings and store them, saving precious minutes on busy days.
Texture Matters: Combine different textures for maximum satisfaction. A mix of crunchy, creamy, and chewy elements will elevate your Fall Cobb Salad experience.
Vinaigrette Separation: To prevent sogginess, always serve the maple balsamic vinaigrette on the side. This ensures your salad stays fresh and crisp until the last bite.
Ingredient Substitutions: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Substitute the bacon for grilled chicken or omit for a vegetarian version. Enjoy the flexibility the recipe offers.
Seasonal Variations: Embrace the season by swapping ingredients based on availability. Try using sweet potatoes instead of butternut squash for a delightful alteration.

Make Ahead Options

These Fall Cobb Salad components are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor deliciousness even on the busiest days! You can roast the butternut squash up to 3 days in advance; just let it cool and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The hard-boiled eggs can also be cooked and refrigerated for up to 5 days, keeping their taste fresh and delightful. Assemble the salad up to 24 hours before serving by layering the mixed greens, squash, and other ingredients in a large bowl, but keep the vinaigrette separate to maintain crunchiness. When it’s time to enjoy your meal, drizzle the homemade maple balsamic vinaigrette over the top, and you’ll have a stunning dish ready with minimal effort!

Fall Cobb Salad: Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to tailor this Fall Cobb Salad to match your taste buds or the ingredients you have on hand!

Dairy-Free: Substitute goat cheese with avocado slices or a creamy tahini dressing for a dairy-free option.
Vegetarian Delight: Instead of bacon, use roasted chickpeas or marinated tofu for a protein-packed vegetarian twist. This variation adds great texture and flavor!
Nut-Free: Swap pumpkin seeds with sunflower seeds to keep that crunch without the nuts. This makes the salad school-safe too!
Sweetened Dressing: Enhance your vinaigrette with a splash of apple cider vinegar instead of balsamic for a fruity kick that complements the salad’s flavors beautifully.
Extra Crunch: For a fun twist, add crispy fried onions or crushed tortilla chips on top for a delightful texture contrast and additional flavor.
Seasonal Swaps: Incorporate seasonal favorites like pomegranate seeds or roasted Brussels sprouts for an aromatic change during holiday gatherings. They’ll bring a pop of color and flavor!
Warm Salad Option: Toss in sautéed kale or spinach right after the butternut squash roasts for a warm salad option that’s extra cozy.
Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the vinaigrette for a little heat, while still keeping the salad refreshing.

Feel free to explore these variations, and while you’re at it, check out my other seasonal delights like the Strawberry Spinach Salad or Spring Roll Salad for more delicious ideas!

Fall Cobb Salad Recipe FAQs

What kind of mixed greens should I use for the Fall Cobb Salad?
Absolutely! You can use any salad greens you like, such as spinach, arugula, or a classic spring mix. Freshness is key—it will enhance the overall taste and presentation. If you want something heartier, try using kale or romaine as your base!

How long can I store leftovers of the Fall Cobb Salad?
You can refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Just remember to keep the maple balsamic vinaigrette separate until you’re ready to serve to avoid sogginess, ensuring your salad remains fresh and delicious!

Can I freeze roasted butternut squash?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze roasted butternut squash! Simply spread it in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze it, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat gently in the oven.

What if my butternut squash isn’t tender after roasting?
Very good question! If your butternut squash isn’t fork-tender after 20 minutes, simply extend the roasting time by increments of 5 minutes. It might need a little longer depending on how densely packed the pieces are. Just keep an eye on it until it’s beautifully caramelized and soft!

Are there any allergens I should consider in the Fall Cobb Salad?
Definitely! This Fall Cobb Salad contains common allergens like eggs and dairy (in the goat cheese) as well as nuts from the pumpkin seeds. For a nut-free version, swap pumpkin seeds with sunflower seeds. If anyone has egg allergies, consider omitting hard-boiled eggs altogether while replacing them with additional protein options like chickpeas or grilled chicken.

What’s the best way to enjoy this salad?
Absolutely delightful! The Fall Cobb Salad is best served fresh, especially during gatherings or celebratory meals. Consider pairing it with warm crusty bread or as a side alongside your favorite autumn-inspired dishes. Enjoy the rich flavors of the season!