17+ Warm Thanksgiving Salad Recipe Elevate Your Taste Buds!
Published on: Mar 1, 2024
Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and, of course, delicious food. While many traditional Thanksgiving dishes are heavy and indulgent, there is a growing trend towards incorporating healthier options into the holiday spread. This warm Thanksgiving salad recipe is the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving menu, providing a nutritious and flavorful option that will satisfy both your taste buds and your waistline.
Thanksgiving Spinach Salad with Dried Cranberries,...
Main Ingredients: Baby Spinach Leaves, Dried Cranberries, Sliced Almonds
This salad is a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors. The spinach serves as a nutritious base, while the dried cranberries add a burst of sweetness. The Feta cheese adds a tangy kick, and the walnuts bring a satisfying crunch. Tossed in a simple balsamic vinaigrette, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
For a more traditional Thanksgiving salad, this recipe is a must-try. It features mixed greens, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and goat cheese, all tossed in a honey mustard dressing. The combination of flavors and textures in this salad is simply irresistible.
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Fruit-Focused Thanksgiving Salads
Main Ingredients: Wheat Berries, Squash, Medium Shallots, Fresh Sage
If you want to incorporate more fruit into your Thanksgiving meal, these salads are a perfect choice. The first one features romaine lettuce, apples, pecans, and a honey lemon dressing. The second one combines spinach, strawberries, mandarin oranges, and a balsamic vinaigrette. Both are refreshing and delicious options for a Thanksgiving salad.
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Thanksgiving Salad with Orange Cinnamon Vinaigrette
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Canela, Sea Salt, Romaine
For a unique and flavorful dressing, try this orange cinnamon vinaigrette. It pairs perfectly with the combination of mixed greens, cranberries, pecans, and blue cheese. This salad is full of fall flavors and is sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving dinner.
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Thanksgiving Salad with Thyme Balsamic Vinaigrette
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Balsamic Vinegar, Medium
This salad is a beautiful mix of colors and flavors. The balsamic vinaigrette is infused with fresh thyme, which adds a savory element to the salad. The salad itself is made up of mixed greens, cranberries, goat cheese, and candied pecans. It's a delicious and festive option for your Thanksgiving table.
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Thanksgiving Salad with Cranberry Poppy Seed...
Main Ingredients: Romaine Lettuce, Sweet Potato, Turkey, Crumbled Feta
If you love the classic combination of cranberry and poppy seed, then this salad is for you. The vinaigrette is a sweet and tangy dressing that pairs perfectly with the mixed greens, candied pecans, feta cheese, and craisins. This salad is a Thanksgiving staple that will leave your taste buds satisfied.
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Adorable Thanksgiving Salad with Butternut Squash...
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Kosher Salt
This salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing. The bright colors of the butternut squash, cranberries, and caramelized shallots make this salad a standout dish on your Thanksgiving table. Topped with a maple dijon vinaigrette, it's a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
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Thanksgiving Salad with Roasted Butternut Squash and...
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Sea Salt, Canela, Romaine
For a more filling Thanksgiving salad, try this recipe that incorporates roasted butternut squash and fluffy quinoa. The salad also features cranberries, goat cheese, and a balsamic vinaigrette. It's a hearty and healthy option that will keep you satisfied throughout your holiday meal.
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Thanksgiving Salad with Wild Rice and Lemon Dressing
Main Ingredients: Orange, Lemon, Olive Oil, Salt, Pepper, Agave, Arugula
This salad is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The wild rice adds a chewy and nutty element, while the apples, cranberries, and pecans bring a nice crunch. Tossed in a lemon dressing, this salad is a refreshing and light addition to your Thanksgiving feast.
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Leftover Thanksgiving Salad
Main Ingredients: Cooked Turkey, Cooked Ham, Dried Cranberries, Hard
If you have some leftovers from your Thanksgiving dinner, don't let them go to waste. Instead, use them to create this delicious and creative salad. Simply toss together your leftover turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and green beans with a homemade vinaigrette for a tasty and unique Thanksgiving salad.
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Fresh Thanksgiving Salad with Fluffy Quinoa,...
Main Ingredients: Pumpkin, Fennel Seeds, Ground Cumin, Olive Oil, Maple
Kale and pomegranate are both superfoods, making this salad not only delicious but also nutritious. The quinoa adds a fluffy and filling element, while the pomegranate seeds add a burst of sweetness. Drizzled with a honey lime dressing, this salad is a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving menu.
If you're looking for a lighter side dish for your Thanksgiving meal, this slaw is a great option. It's made with cabbage, carrots, apples, and cranberries, all tossed in a creamy poppy seed dressing. This refreshing and crunchy salad is a perfect complement to your Thanksgiving feast.
This salad is not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber. It features lentils, green beans, apples, pecans, and goat cheese, all tossed in a balsamic vinaigrette. It's a hearty and healthy option that will leave you feeling satisfied.
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Pomegranate, Pear, Pecan, & Brie Salad ~ AKA,...
Main Ingredients: Virgin Olive Oil, Balsamic Vinegar, Dijon Mustard
With its vibrant colors and delicious flavors, this salad is a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving table. It features mixed greens, pear slices, pecans, and brie cheese, all tossed in a balsamic vinaigrette. This salad is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
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Roasted Thanksgiving Salad
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, Parsnips, Red Onion, Olive Oil, Kosher
This salad is a great way to use up any leftover roasted vegetables from your Thanksgiving dinner. Simply toss them with some mixed greens, cranberries, almonds, and a homemade vinaigrette for a delicious and easy Thanksgiving salad.
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Favorite Thanksgiving Salad
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Red Onion, Garlic Cloves, Dijon Mustard
If you're looking for a classic and simple Thanksgiving salad, this recipe is a great choice. It features spinach, candied pecans, cranberries, and goat cheese, all drizzled with a honey balsamic dressing. It's a tried and true combination of flavors that will never disappoint.
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Day After Thanksgiving Salad
Main Ingredients: Spinach, Turkey, Raspberries, Cherry Tomatoes, Dubliner
This salad is perfect for using up any leftover Thanksgiving turkey. It also features roasted sweet potatoes, cranberries, and blue cheese, all tossed in a balsamic vinaigrette. This salad is a great way to switch up your leftovers and create a new and delicious dish.
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Really Good Thanksgiving Salad
Main Ingredients: Nonstick Cooking Spray, Kosher Salt, Ground Black
The name says it all for this salad. It's made with arugula, apples, pecans, and blue cheese, all tossed in a honey vinaigrette. It's a simple yet flavorful combination that will elevate your Thanksgiving meal.
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Thanksgiving #4 - Jello and Marshmallow Salad
Main Ingredients: Jello, Sugar, Hot Water, Miniature Marshmallows
For a fun and nostalgic Thanksgiving salad, try this recipe that incorporates jello and marshmallows. Mixed with pineapple, mandarin oranges, and whipped cream, this salad is a sweet and refreshing side dish that will bring back childhood memories.
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Pineapple and Mandarin Orange Jello Salad
Main Ingredients: Jello, Cottage Cheese, Crushed Pineapple, Mandarin
Similar to the previous recipe, this jello salad is a great addition to your Thanksgiving menu. It's made with pineapple, mandarin oranges, cream cheese, and whipped cream, all mixed together and set in a gelatin base. This salad is a fun and tasty way to switch up your traditional Thanksgiving dishes.
Why Choose a Warm Thanksgiving Salad?
1. Seasonal Ingredients
The fall season offers a bounty of delicious produce that is perfect for creating a warm and hearty Thanksgiving salad. Squash, Brussels sprouts, and cranberries are just a few of the seasonal ingredients that can be incorporated into this dish. Not only do these ingredients add a festive touch, but they also provide important vitamins and nutrients to keep you healthy during the colder months.
2. A Lighter Option
Let's be honest, Thanksgiving is known for its indulgent and calorie-laden dishes. While it's certainly okay to enjoy some of these treats in moderation, a warm Thanksgiving salad offers a lighter option that won't leave you feeling weighed down after the meal. Leafy greens, lean protein, and healthy fats make up the base of this salad, providing a well-rounded and nutritious dish that won't derail your healthy eating goals.
3. Easy to Customize
One of the best things about a warm Thanksgiving salad is its versatility. It can be easily customized to suit your personal preferences and dietary needs. For example, vegetarians can omit the protein or use a plant-based alternative, while those with gluten sensitivities can choose gluten-free grains like quinoa or wild rice. You can also add in your favorite fall spices and herbs to give the salad a unique and flavorful twist.
How to Make a Warm Thanksgiving Salad
Now that you know why a warm Thanksgiving salad is a great addition to your holiday menu, let's dive into how to make it. This recipe is simple, yet impressive, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
Ingredients:
- 1 small butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and sliced
- 4 cups mixed greens
- ½ cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, toss the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on the baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
4. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cooked quinoa, dried cranberries, and walnuts.
5. Add the roasted vegetables and sliced chicken to the bowl and drizzle the dressing over the top.
6. Toss everything together until well combined.
7. Serve the warm salad immediately and enjoy!
In conclusion, a warm Thanksgiving salad is a delicious and nutritious addition to your holiday menu. With seasonal ingredients, a lighter option, and endless customization possibilities, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Give it a try and see for yourself how this salad can elevate your Thanksgiving feast.
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