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Easy to Make Thanksgiving Salad Recipes
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Thanksgiving Salad Recipe

This fresh and colorful Thanksgiving Salad is the perfect side dish for your holiday table. It combines crisp greens, roasted butternut squash, sweet cranberries, creamy feta, and crunchy candied pecans—all tossed in a light homemade balsamic dressing. Simple to make, easy to love, and sure to impress.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Roasting, Tossing 5 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Roasting, Tossing
Cuisine: American
Calories: 275
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 6 cups mixed greens spinach, arugula, or spring mix
  • 2 cups roasted butternut squash cubed
  • ½ cup candied pecans or walnuts
  • ½ cup dried cranberries
  • ½ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
  • ¼ cup pomegranate seeds optional
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • For the Dressing:
  • ⅓ cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Small jar or bowl for dressing
  • Whisk or salad tongs

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Squash:
  2. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20–25 minutes or until golden and tender. Let cool.
  3. Make the Dressing:
  4. In a small jar or bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder until smooth.
  5. Assemble the Salad:
  6. In a large bowl, add greens, roasted squash, dried cranberries, and candied pecans. Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss gently to coat.
  7. Add Finishing Touches:
  8. Top with crumbled feta cheese and pomegranate seeds. Season lightly with salt and pepper before serving.

Notes

For extra crunch, toast the nuts in a dry skillet for 3 minutes before adding.
Swap feta with blue cheese or shaved parmesan for a flavor twist.
Make the dressing up to 3 days ahead and refrigerate. Shake well before using.
Add cooked quinoa or sliced apples for a heartier version.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 275
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 23g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 10g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Sodium: 210mg