Fall Harvest Steak Salad

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Juicy grilled steak meets vibrant autumn produce in this warm and hearty Fall Harvest Steak Salad. It’s a delicious way to bring the cozy flavors of fall into a lighter, nutrient-packed meal. Sweet roasted butternut squash, crisp apples, and candied pecans sit atop a bed of greens, drizzled with tangy balsamic vinaigrette and finished with tender slices of perfectly cooked steak.

This salad isn’t just a side dish—it can absolutely hold its own as a main course. It balances rich protein, seasonal produce, and contrasting textures that make every bite exciting. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or hosting a fall dinner, this dish will impress with both flavor and presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Fall Harvest Steak Salad

It’s the perfect hybrid of comfort and freshness. The warm steak and roasted vegetables make it satisfying even on cooler days, while the crisp apples and greens keep it light and vibrant. It’s gluten-free, customizable, and comes together quickly with ingredients you likely already have during the season. Best of all, it turns simple steak into something special.

What Kind of Steak Should I Use?

You can use your favorite steak cut for this salad. Flank, skirt, sirloin, or ribeye all work beautifully. What matters most is that it’s cooked to your liking and rested before slicing. If you’re grilling or pan-searing, aim for a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Leftover steak also works perfectly here, making it a smart way to reduce food waste.

Ingredients for the Fall Harvest Steak Salad

This salad thrives on contrasts—warm and cool, soft and crunchy, savory and sweet. Each ingredient is chosen for flavor and texture harmony.

• Steak
• Butternut squash
• Apples
• Candied pecans
• Baby spinach or mixed greens
• Goat cheese or feta
• Red onion
• Olive oil
• Balsamic vinegar
• Maple syrup
• Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper

How To Make the Fall Harvest Steak Salad

Step 1: Roast the Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for about 25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and tender.

Step 2: Cook the Steak

Season your steak with salt and pepper. Sear in a hot skillet or grill to desired doneness. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl or platter, layer greens, roasted squash, sliced apples, red onion, and candied pecans. Top with sliced steak and crumbled goat cheese. Drizzle with dressing just before serving.

How to Serve and Store Your Fall Harvest Steak Salad

This salad is best served warm or at room temperature. The warm steak and squash slightly wilt the greens in the most delicious way. It serves 4 generously as a main dish.

If you’re making it ahead, store all the components separately and assemble when ready to eat. Keep the dressing in a jar, and slice apples right before serving to prevent browning. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, though the salad is best fresh.

What to Serve With Fall Harvest Steak Salad?

Crusty Garlic Bread

A warm, toasted loaf brings comforting contrast and is perfect for soaking up extra vinaigrette.

Sweet Potato Soup

The creamy, earthy flavors pair beautifully and bring extra fall coziness to the table.

Cranberry Walnut Couscous

A bright, nutty side that echoes the salad’s sweet-savory notes.

Spiced Apple Cider

Whether warm or chilled, it enhances the salad’s apple and squash flavors.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Add another layer of roasted goodness that complements the salad beautifully.

Caramelized Onion Flatbread

A delicious appetizer or side that adds a hint of indulgence.

Maple Glazed Carrots

Bring extra sweetness and color to your meal.

Creamy Mashed Cauliflower

A low-carb, creamy companion that balances out the freshness of the salad.

Want More Salad Ideas with Protein?

If you love this Fall Harvest Steak Salad, you might also enjoy these savory, satisfying meals:

• Try our Skirt Steak Rice Bowls with Chimichurri for bold flavor and quick prep.
• The Flavorful Mediterranean Steak Bowls offer zesty herbs and hearty grains.
• For a lighter but cozy twist, explore our Light Lemon Basil Pasta Salad with Chicken.
• Craving more color? Our Apple Salad brings sweet crunch and pairs well with many proteins.
• Don’t miss the Creamy Mushroom Sauce for Steak to elevate your next dinner.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest fall meal board so you can come back to it anytime.

And let me know in the comments how you made it your own. Did you use feta or goat cheese? Add roasted beets? Swap in pears? I love seeing your seasonal spins and suggestions.

Explore beautifully curated seasonal recipes on Luna Meals on Pinterest and find your next favorite fall dish.

Conclusion

Fall Harvest Steak Salad is a cozy yet fresh way to celebrate the season. With warm steak, roasted squash, and crisp apple slices, it blends flavors and textures that feel like autumn on a plate. Whether you make it for dinner tonight or prep it for weekday lunches, it’s a feel-good recipe that brings the best of the harvest straight to your table.

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