Sweet and Tangy Autumn Salad Recipe

Unleash the flavours of the fall with this Sweet and Tangy Autumn Salad recipe. It's a perfect blend of refreshing, sweet, and tangy elements, bringing together ingredients that highlight the best of the season in a sublime and healthy salad.

Photos of Sweet and Tangy Autumn Salad Recipe

The ingredients in this salad are fairly common and can be found in your local supermarket. However, two ingredients that you might want to look out for are barley and pomegranate. Barley, a whole grain, is usually located with the rice and pasta products. Pomegranate can be found in the fruit section, but if fresh pomegranate isn't available, you can also opt for pre-packaged pomegranate arils.

Key Ingredients for Sweet and Tangy Autumn Salad

Mayonnaise: This is used as the base for the dressing, adding a creamy texture and tangy flavor.

Lime zest and juice: These add a refreshing citrusy kick to the dressing.

Brussels sprouts: These provide a healthy, crunchy base for the salad.

Barley: A nutritious and hearty grain that adds texture and substance to the salad.

Sweet potato: Adds a sweet, starchy element to counterbalance the tangy dressing.

Pecans: These add a satisfying crunch and a hint of nutty flavor.

Pomegranate: Adds a burst of sweet and tart flavor, plus they make the salad more visually appealing.

Cilantro: This herb garnish adds a touch of freshness to finish off the salad.

One reader, Felike Lamar says:

This sweet and tangy autumn salad is a delightful burst of flavors! The combination of sweet potato, pomegranate, and pecans creates a perfect blend of sweet and tangy. The lime dressing adds a refreshing zing. It's a must-try for anyone looking for a unique and delicious salad option.

Felike Lamar

Techniques Required for Making a Delightful Autumn Salad

How to prepare the dressing: In a small mixing bowl, stir together mayonnaise, lime zest, and lime juice. Season with salt to taste.

How to prepare the salad: Place brussels sprouts, barley, sweet potato, pecans, and pomegranate arils in a bowl.

How to dress the salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss to evenly coat.

How to garnish: Garnish the salad with fresh cilantro if desired.

How To Make Sweet and Tangy Autumn Salad

This sweet and sour combination of sweet potatoes and pomegranates make this autumn salad a refreshing dish. Add some pecans for texture and serve with mayo.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

¼cupmayonnaise
1tsplime zest
1tbspfresh lime juice
salt
8ozbrussels sprouts,thinly sliced
1cupcooked barley
2cupslarge sweet potato,peeled, diced into cubes and cooked
½cuppecans,toasted and roughly chopped
2cupspomegranate
fresh cilantro,for garnish, optional

Instructions

In a small mixing bowl stir together mayonnaise, lime zest and lime juice. Season with salt to taste.
Place Brussels sprouts, barley, sweet potato, pecans, and pomegranate arils in a bowl.
Pour dressing over top and toss to evenly coat. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 269.10kcal
Fat: 14.30g
Saturated Fat: 1.74g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.31g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.40g
Carbohydrates: 34.25g
Fiber: 7.31g
Sugar: 11.55g
Protein: 4.52g
Cholesterol: 3.75mg
Sodium: 465.42mg
Calcium: 49.31mg
Potassium: 542.77mg
Iron: 1.64mg
Vitamin A: 414.25µg
Vitamin C: 41.20mg

Expert Technique Tip for Elevating Your Autumn Salad Game

When preparing the brussels sprouts for this salad, it's best to shred them finely. This not only makes them easier to eat, but also allows them to better absorb the tangy dressing. You can do this with a sharp knife, but a food processor with a slicing attachment can make the job quicker and more uniform. Just be sure to clean the sprouts thoroughly before shredding, and remove any tough outer leaves.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Sweet and Tangy Autumn Salad

Plan ahead: Pre-cook the barley and sweet potatoes in advance to save time when assembling the salad.

Multi-task: While the barley and sweet potatoes are cooking, prepare the other ingredients to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.

Use pre-cut ingredients: Consider using pre-cut brussels sprouts and pomegranate arils to cut down on prep time.

Invest in a good knife: A sharp, high-quality knife can make chopping and slicing ingredients quicker and more efficient.

Batch cooking: Make a larger quantity of the salad and store it in the refrigerator for quick and easy meals throughout the week.

Substitute Ingredients For Sweet and Tangy Autumn Salad Recipe

mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a creamy texture and tangy flavor similar to mayonnaise, but with less fat and more protein.
lime zest - Substitute with lemon zest: Lemon zest has a similar citrusy flavor and aroma to lime zest, and can be used as a substitute in this recipe.
lime juice - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar offers a tangy flavor similar to lime juice and can provide the acidity needed in the dressing.
brussels sprouts - Substitute with shredded kale: Shredded kale can provide a similar texture and earthy flavor to brussels sprouts in the salad.
barley - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa is a nutritious alternative to barley and offers a similar chewy texture in the salad.
sweet potato - Substitute with butternut squash: Butternut squash has a sweet and nutty flavor similar to sweet potato and can be roasted for a delicious addition to the salad.
pecans - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts offer a similar nutty flavor and crunchy texture to pecans in the salad.
pomegranate - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries provide a sweet and tangy burst of flavor similar to pomegranate seeds in the salad.
cilantro - Substitute with flat-leaf parsley: Flat-leaf parsley can provide a fresh and herbaceous flavor similar to cilantro in the salad.

Presentation Tips for a Stunning Autumn Salad

Elevate the plating: Arrange the salad ingredients in a visually appealing manner, ensuring each component is showcased beautifully.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Introduce a variety of textures, such as the crunch of the pecans, the tender brussels sprouts, and the chewy barley, to add depth to the dish.
Balance the flavors: Ensure the sweet and tangy elements are evenly distributed throughout the salad, creating a harmonious blend of tastes with each bite.
Highlight seasonal produce: Emphasize the autumnal ingredients, such as sweet potatoes and pomegranate, to celebrate the flavors of the season.
Emphasize freshness: Use vibrant and fresh cilantro as a garnish to add a pop of color and a burst of herbal aroma to the dish.
Create a visually stunning plate: Pay attention to the color composition and arrangement of the ingredients to create an eye-catching presentation that reflects the sophistication of the dish.

Essential Tools for Crafting the Perfect Sweet and Tangy Autumn Salad

Mayonnaise: You can use a mixing bowl and a whisk to make mayonnaise from scratch, or you can use a food processor for a quicker method.
Lime zest: You will need a zester or a microplane to zest the lime.
Lime juice: You will need a citrus juicer or a handheld juicer to extract the lime juice.
Salt: A simple salt shaker or a pinch bowl will suffice for adding salt to taste.
Brussels sprouts: You will need a cutting board and a sharp knife to trim and slice the brussels sprouts.
Barley: A saucepan or a rice cooker can be used to cook the barley.
Sweet potato: You will need a vegetable peeler and a chef's knife to peel and dice the sweet potato.
Pecans: A baking sheet and an oven for toasting the pecans.
Pomegranate: You will need a cutting board and a large bowl of water to deseed the pomegranate.
Fresh cilantro: A herb scissors or a chef's knife can be used to chop the fresh cilantro.

Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Sweet and Tangy Autumn Salad

This sweet and tangy autumn salad is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Keep in mind that the brussels sprouts and sweet potato may lose some of their crispness over time, but the flavors will still be delicious.
If you want to prepare the salad ahead of time, you can cook the barley and sweet potato in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator.
When ready to serve, toss the pre-cooked ingredients with the fresh brussels sprouts, pecans, and pomegranate arils, then drizzle with the lime mayonnaise dressing.
Freezing this salad is not recommended, as the texture of the vegetables and fruits will be compromised once thawed, and the mayonnaise-based dressing may separate and become watery.

How To Reheat Leftover Autumn Salad

To reheat leftover sweet and tangy autumn salad, start by removing the salad from the refrigerator and letting it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This will help the ingredients come to a more palatable temperature and prevent the salad from being too cold when you eat it.
If you prefer your sweet potato and brussels sprouts to be warm, you can reheat them separately in the microwave or oven. To microwave, place the vegetables in a microwave-safe dish and heat them in 30-second intervals until they reach your desired temperature. To reheat in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the vegetables on a baking sheet, and heat them for 5-10 minutes or until they are warmed through.
Once the vegetables are warm, add them back to the salad and give everything a good toss to combine. If the salad seems a bit dry, you can add a splash of fresh lime juice or a dollop of mayonnaise to help moisten things up.
If you want to add some extra crunch to your leftover salad, consider toasting some additional pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes or until they are fragrant and lightly toasted. Let them cool slightly before adding them to the salad.
Finally, if you have any leftover pomegranate arils, sprinkle them over the top of the salad for a burst of freshness and color. If you don't have any leftover arils, you can always add some fresh cilantro leaves for a similar effect.

Interesting Trivia About Autumn Salads

Brussels sprouts are a great source of vitamins C and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. They are also low in calories and high in nutrients, making them a healthy addition to any salad.

Is Preparing Sweet and Tangy Autumn Salad Cost-Effective for Home Cooks?

The sweet and tangy autumn salad recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as brussels sprouts, barley, sweet potato, and pomegranate, are generally affordable and readily available. The addition of pecans and fresh cilantro may slightly increase the cost, but these ingredients can be used in various other dishes. Overall, this recipe offers a good balance of nutrition and flavor at a reasonable cost. I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for its cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20.

Is This Autumn Salad Healthy or Unhealthy?

This sweet and tangy autumn salad recipe offers a mix of healthy and less healthy ingredients. On the positive side, it includes nutrient-dense foods like brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, and pomegranate, which provide fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Barley is also a whole grain that adds fiber and complex carbohydrates. However, the use of mayonnaise as a dressing base and the inclusion of pecans, while adding flavor and healthy fats, also contribute to the overall calorie and fat content of the dish.

To make this salad even healthier, consider these suggestions:

Swap the mayonnaise for a lighter, yogurt-based dressing or a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil and lime juice
Reduce the amount of pecans or replace them with a lower-calorie alternative like pumpkin seeds
Include additional leafy greens, such as spinach or kale, to increase the nutrient density and fiber content
Experiment with other seasonal vegetables, like roasted beets or carrots, to add variety and color to the salad
Use a smaller portion of barley or replace it with a lower-carb option like quinoa or cauliflower rice to reduce the overall carbohydrate content

Editor's Opinion: Thoughts on This Delectable Autumn Salad Recipe

This sweet and tangy autumn salad recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The creamy lime dressing adds a zesty kick, perfectly complementing the earthy barley, roasted sweet potatoes, and crunchy pecans. The burst of juicy pomegranate seeds adds a refreshing pop, while the brussels sprouts provide a satisfying crunch. The addition of fresh cilantro brings a burst of herbaceousness to the dish, tying all the flavors together. It's a vibrant and satisfying salad that captures the essence of autumn in every bite.

Enhance Your Sweet and Tangy Autumn Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for pairing with the sweet and tangy autumn salad.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Tender carrots glazed in a sweet honey sauce, adding a touch of sweetness to complement the flavors of the autumn salad.

Cranberry Orange Quinoa: Nutty quinoa mixed with tangy cranberries and zesty orange, providing a refreshing and light side dish to accompany the autumn salad.

Delicious Alternatives to Sweet and Tangy Autumn Salad

Savory Butternut Squash Soup: This creamy and comforting soup is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of butternut squash, onions, and garlic creates a rich and flavorful base that is sure to warm you up.

Honey Glazed Carrots: These tender and sweet carrots are the perfect side dish for any meal. The honey glaze adds a touch of sweetness, while the carrots retain their natural crunch and flavor.

Citrus Grilled Chicken: This zesty and flavorful chicken dish is perfect for a summer barbecue. The combination of citrus juices, garlic, and herbs creates a marinade that infuses the chicken with a burst of tangy flavor.

Ideal Appetizer and Dessert Combinations for Your Autumn Salad

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a delectable appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a crowd-pleasing starter.

Crispy Zucchini Fritters: Whip up a batch of crispy zucchini fritters for a delightful appetizer. Grate zucchini, mix with herbs and spices, then pan-fry until golden brown. Serve with a dollop of creamy dipping sauce for a tasty treat.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender baked apples and a crispy oat topping. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

Why trust this Sweet and Tangy Autumn Salad Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, ensuring a satisfying and wholesome dining experience. The mayonnaise dressing, infused with zesty lime juice and fragrant lime zest, adds a refreshing tang to the dish. The hearty mix of brussels sprouts, nutty pecans, and luscious pomegranate arils provides a delightful contrast of crunch and juiciness. The addition of nutrient-rich sweet potato and wholesome barley further enhances the salad's nutritional value. With a burst of vibrant colors and a harmonious blend of flavors, this recipe is a trustworthy choice for a wholesome and delicious autumn salad.

Share your thoughts on this sweet and tangy autumn salad recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to suggest!

FAQ:

What can I substitute for mayonnaise in this recipe?

You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative, or with sour cream for a slightly tangier flavor.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time. However, I recommend adding the dressing and pecans just before serving to maintain the salad's freshness and crunch.

How can I prepare the brussels sprouts for this salad?

To prepare the brussels sprouts, trim the ends and remove any damaged outer leaves. Then, thinly slice or shred them using a sharp knife or a food processor.

Can I use a different grain instead of barley?

Absolutely! You can use quinoa, farro, or even wild rice as a substitute for barley in this recipe.

How do I deseed a pomegranate?

To deseed a pomegranate, cut it in half and hold each half over a bowl, seed side down. Use a wooden spoon to firmly tap the back of the pomegranate, and the seeds will fall out easily.