17 Best Winter Harvest Salad Recipes

Winter brings a bounty of fresh, seasonal produce perfect for creating hearty and flavorful salads. I’ve gathered some of the best winter harvest salad recipes that showcase the rich flavors and textures of cold-weather crops. These dishes will brighten up any meal during the chilly months.

From crisp apples and juicy pomegranates to robust root vegetables and leafy greens, these salads make the most of winter’s offerings. I’ll share 17 delicious winter salad ideas that are easy to make and nutritious.

Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a festive side dish, these recipes will inspire you to eat more salads even when it’s cold outside.

1. Maple Roasted Squash Salad

I love this Maple Roasted Squash Salad for its perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. The roasted squash adds warmth to crisp greens, making it ideal for chilly winter days. It’s a versatile dish that works as a light main course or a festive side.

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Serves: 4-6.

Ingredients

• 1 butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 4 cups mixed salad greens
• 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
• 1/4 cup toasted pecans
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste.

Steps

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss squash with maple syrup, 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Roast squash for 20-25 minutes until tender.
4. Let squash cool for 5 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine greens, roasted squash, goat cheese, and pecans.
6. Drizzle with remaining olive oil and toss gently.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

2. Kale and Pomegranate Salad

I love this vibrant winter salad combining nutrient-rich kale and juicy pomegranate seeds. The mix of textures and flavors makes it a standout dish for any winter meal.

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4.

Main ingredients

• Kale
• Pomegranate seeds
• Goat cheese.

Recipe steps

1. Wash and chop 6 oz of kale
2. Massage kale with 1 tbsp olive oil and juice from half a lemon
3. Add 1 1/2 cups of candied pecans for crunch
4. Sprinkle 4 oz of crumbled goat cheese
5. Top with 1/2 cup of pomegranate seeds.

I like to add some diced apples for extra sweetness. This salad is perfect as a side dish or light main course. Combining kale and pomegranate provides a good dose of vitamins and antioxidants.

3. Warm Farro and Roasted Vegetable Salad

I love this hearty winter salad that combines nutty farro with roasted seasonal vegetables. It’s perfect for cold days when you want something warm and filling.

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup farro
• 2 cups mixed winter vegetables (squash, parsnips, onions)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley

Steps

1. Cook farro according to package directions.
2. Chop vegetables and toss with 2 tablespoons of oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Roast vegetables at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, stirring once.
4. Mix warm farro and roasted vegetables in a large bowl.
5. Add remaining oil, feta, and parsley. Toss gently to combine.

This warm farro salad is delicious and served immediately. The flavors meld nicely as they sit, making great leftovers too.

4. Citrus and Avocado Salad

I love this Winter Citrus & Avocado Salad for its bright flavors and creamy texture. It’s a perfect blend of sweet citrus and rich avocado, making it a refreshing choice for winter meals.

Ingredients

• Mixed citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruits)
• Ripe avocados
• Salad greens
• Feta cheese
• Olive oil
• Rice vinegar
• Agave nectar
• Cilantro
• Salt

Steps

1. Slice citrus fruits and avocados
2. Arrange greens on a platter
3. Top with citrus and avocado slices
4. Sprinkle feta cheese
5. Mix dressing ingredients
6. Drizzle dressing over the salad
7. Garnish with cilantro

This salad is easy to customize. I sometimes add pomegranate seeds or figs for extra sweetness and texture. The creamy orange tahini vinaigrette is another great dressing option I enjoy.

5. Beet and Goat Cheese Salad

I love this colorful winter salad that combines earthy roasted beets with creamy goat cheese. It’s a perfect balance of flavors and textures that brightens up any cold day.

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 1 hour
• Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 3 medium beets
• 4 cups mixed salad greens
• 4 oz goat cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

1. Wrap beets in foil and roast at 400°F for 1 hour
2. Let beets cool, then peel and slice
3. Arrange greens on plates and top with beet slices
4. Crumble goat cheese over beets
5. Sprinkle with walnuts
6. Drizzle with olive oil and vinegar
7. Season with salt and pepper

This beet and goat cheese salad can be prepped ahead. I roast the beets and make the dressing a day or two in advance, then assemble them just before serving.

6. Roasted Brussels Sprout Salad

I love this Roasted Brussels Sprout Salad for its mix of warm and cool flavors. The roasted sprouts add a nice crunch, while the tahini dressing brings a creamy touch. It’s perfect for chilly winter days.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

• Brussels sprouts
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Butter
• Garlic
• Pine nuts
• Tahini dressing

Steps

1. Roast Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Make crispy breadcrumbs with butter, garlic, and pine nuts.
3. Toss roasted sprouts with breadcrumbs and tahini dressing.

This salad is easy to make and full of flavor. The roasted sprouts are tasty on their own, but the crispy breadcrumbs take it to the next level. I like to serve it warm as a side dish or light meal.

7. Apple and Walnut Winter Salad

I love this Apple and Walnut Winter Salad for its perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. The crisp apples and crunchy walnuts make it a refreshing choice for cold days.

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

• 4 cups mixed salad greens
• 2 apples, sliced • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/4 cup crumbled gorgonzola cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

1. Wash and dry the salad greens.
2. Core and slice the apples.
3. Mix greens, apples, walnuts, and cheese in a bowl.
4. Whisk oil and vinegar in a separate bowl.
5. Pour dressing over salad and toss gently.
6. Add salt and pepper to taste.

This salad is easy to customize. I sometimes add dried cranberries for extra sweetness or swap the gorgonzola for feta cheese. It’s a versatile recipe that works well for lunch or as a side dish with dinner.

8. Quinoa and Cranberry Salad

I love this Quinoa and Cranberry Salad for its perfect balance of nutty quinoa and tart cranberries. It’s a protein-packed dish that’s both filling and refreshing, ideal for cold winter days.

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Serves: 4-6

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds or pecans)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

1. Rinse quinoa and cook in water or broth for 15 minutes.
2. Let quinoa cool, then mix with cranberries and nuts.
3. Whisk olive oil and vinegar for dressing.
4. Pour dressing over salad and toss.
5. Season with salt and pepper.

This winter quinoa salad is versatile. I sometimes add roasted sweet potatoes or apple slices for extra flavor. It’s great for meal prep and keeps well in the fridge for several days.

9. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Salad

I love this hearty winter salad that combines roasted sweet potatoes with protein-packed black beans. The mix of textures and flavors creates a satisfying and nutritious meal perfect for cold days.

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, cubed
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• • 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

1. Toss sweet potatoes with 2 tbsp olive oil and roast at 400°F for 35 minutes.
2. Mix remaining oil, lime juice, and spices for dressing.
3. Combine roasted potatoes, black beans, and dressing in a bowl.
4. Serve warm or chilled.

This vibrant salad is packed with flavor and nutrition. The sweetness of the roasted potatoes pairs perfectly with the earthy black beans. I like to add some crunch with pumpkin seeds or a sprinkle of crispy tortilla strips on top.

10. Fennel and Orange Salad

I love this refreshing winter salad that combines crisp fennel with juicy oranges. It’s a classic Sicilian recipe that’s both light and flavorful.

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

• 1 large fennel bulb
• 2-3 oranges
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: toasted walnuts or pine nuts

Steps

1. Thinly slice the fennel bulb.
2. Peel and segment the oranges, removing all white paths.
3. Arrange fennel and orange slices on a platter.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Optional: Sprinkle with toasted nuts.

This salad is best served immediately. I find it pairs well with grilled fish or roasted chicken for a complete meal.

11. Roasted Carrot and Lentil Salad

I love this hearty winter salad that combines sweet roasted carrots with protein-packed lentils. It’s a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will keep you satisfied on cold days.

Ingredients

• 1 pound carrots, diced
• 1 cup green lentils
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups mixed salad greens

Dressing

• 3 tablespoons tahini
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Water to thin

Steps

1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Toss carrots with oil, cumin, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
2. Roast carrots for 20-25 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized.
3. Cook lentils according to package instructions. Drain and cool slightly.
4. Mix dressing ingredients in a small bowl.
5. Combine roasted carrots, lentils, and greens in a large bowl.
6. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to coat.

This warm lentil salad is best served immediately while the carrots are still warm, but it’s also delicious at room temperature.

12. Pear and Gorgonzola Salad

I love this Pear and Gorgonzola Salad for its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The juicy pears complement the tangy Gorgonzola cheese, creating a delightful taste experience. It’s an easy yet elegant salad that’s perfect for winter gatherings.

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 ripe pears, sliced
• 4 cups mixed greens
• 1/2 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

1. Wash and dry the mixed greens.
2. Core and slice the pears.
3. In a large bowl, combine the greens and pear slices.
4. Sprinkle Gorgonzola and walnuts over the salad.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and olive oil.
6. Drizzle the dressing over the salad.
7. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy!

This salad is versatile and can be customized. I sometimes add sliced shallots or pomegranate seeds for extra flavor and texture. The combination of crisp pears and creamy Gorgonzola makes this salad a winter favorite.

13. Winter Citrus and Arugula Salad

I love this vibrant Winter Citrus and Arugula Salad. It combines sweet oranges, tangy grapefruit, and peppery arugula for a refreshing mix. The salad is topped with creamy goat cheese and crunchy almonds.

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 cups arugula
• 2 oranges, segmented
• 1 grapefruit, segmented
• 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

1. Wash and dry arugula. Place in a large bowl.
2. Add citrus segments to the arugula.
3. Sprinkle goat cheese and almonds over the salad.
4. Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
5. Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

This Winter Citrus Salad with Arugula is perfect for brightening up cold days. The mix of flavors and textures makes it a standout dish. It’s easy to prepare and looks beautiful on the plate.

14. Butternut Squash and Pine Nut Salad

I love this salad for its perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. The roasted butternut squash pairs wonderfully with crunchy pine nuts and tangy feta cheese. It’s a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for cold winter days.

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 butternut squash, cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• 2 cups mixed salad greens
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette

Steps

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized.
3. Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet until golden brown.
4. In a large bowl, combine roasted squash, mixed greens, and pine nuts.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese and drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette.
6. Toss gently and serve immediately.

15. Red Cabbage and Hazelnut Salad

I love this Red Cabbage Hazelnut Salad for its bright colors and crunchy textures. It’s perfect for winter when red cabbage is in season. The hazelnuts add a rich, toasty flavor that complements the tangy dressing.

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Key ingredients: red cabbage, hazelnuts, scallions, raisins

How to make

1. Shred the red cabbage finely
2. Toast and chop the hazelnuts
3. Mix cabbage with chopped scallions and raisins
4. Toss with a dressing made of red currant juice, olive oil, and vinegar
5. Sprinkle toasted hazelnuts on top before serving

I find this salad keeps well in the fridge for a few days. The flavors deepen over time, making it great for meal prep. It’s a versatile side dish that pairs well with roasted meats or can stand alone as a light meal.

16. Radicchio and Blood Orange Salad

I love this vibrant winter salad that combines the bitterness of radicchio with the sweet-tart flavor of blood oranges. It’s a feast for the eyes and taste buds.

Ingredients

• 1 medium head of radicchio
• 2-3 blood oranges
• Vinaigrette of choice

Steps

1. Core and chop the radicchio.
2. Peel and segment the blood oranges.
3. Toss radicchio and oranges in a bowl.
4. Drizzle with vinaigrette and mix gently.

This salad is quick to make and looks stunning on the plate. I find the contrast between the purple radicchio and ruby-red orange segments irresistible. It’s a perfect way to brighten up a winter meal.

17. Celeriac and Apple Salad

I love this unique winter salad that combines the earthy flavor of celeriac with the sweet crunch of apples. It’s a refreshing and light dish that’s perfect for cold weather.

Ingredients

• 1 celeriac, peeled and grated
• 2 red apples, grated
• 1 tablespoon chopped mint
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

1. Grate the celeriac and apples.
2. Mix them in a bowl with the chopped mint.
3. Whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well.
5. Season with salt and pepper.

This celeriac and apple salad is best served immediately. The lemon juice helps prevent the apple from browning. For added crunch, I sometimes toss in some toasted nuts or seeds.