A crisp apple, maple, and bacon salad that tastes like fall under the stars.

There’s something magical about a crisp autumn evening under a glowing harvest moon. The air feels fresher, the stars shine brighter, and it’s the perfect time for a salad that captures the flavors of the season. This Harvest Moon Maple Salad layers crunchy apples, tangy cheddar, sweet cranberries, candied pecans, and smoky bacon over fresh greens, all brought together with a maple-Dijon dressing. It’s like a bite of fall under the night sky.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh fall flavors with crisp apples, smoky bacon, and maple dressing
• Crunchy textures from pecans, greens, and cheddar
• Sweet and savory balance in every bite
• Quick to toss together for weeknight dinners
• Beautiful salad for holidays, potlucks, or fall gatherings

Ingredient Notes

• Mixed greens – A spring mix or baby spinach keeps things light and crisp. Arugula also works if you like a peppery bite.
• Honeycrisp apple – Their natural sweetness and crunch are perfect, but Gala or Fuji apples make great swaps.
• Cheddar cheese – Sharp white cheddar balances the sweetness. Cubes of aged cheddar give extra richness.
• Dried cranberries – Adds a chewy, tart contrast. Dried cherries or golden raisins are good alternatives.
• Candied pecans – Brings crunch and sweetness. Toasted almonds or walnuts work if you want less sweetness.
• Bacon – A salty, smoky layer that ties it all together. Turkey bacon works as a lighter swap.
• Red onion – Totally optional, but it adds a little zing if you like sharp flavors.
• Maple-Dijon dressing- The maple syrup makes it fall-ready while Dijon and apple cider vinegar balance things out. Olive oil smooths it all together.

Before You Make

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but keep the dressing separate until right before serving so the greens stay crisp. Slice the apple just before tossing to prevent browning.

What’s the best apple to use?
Honeycrisp apples are ideal for crunch and sweetness, but Gala, Fuji, or Pink Lady work just as well.

Can I use bottled dressing instead?
Absolutely. A store-bought maple vinaigrette or honey Dijon dressing will save time, though homemade has the freshest flavor.

FAQ

Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Yes, just skip the bacon or swap it with toasted chickpeas or extra nuts for protein and crunch.

What cheese pairs best with apples in salad?
Sharp white cheddar is classic, but Gouda, feta, or blue cheese also pair beautifully with sweet apples.

How do I stop apples from turning brown in salad?
Toss sliced apples in a little lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to slow oxidation.

What proteins can I add to make this a main dish?
Grilled chicken, salmon, or even roasted turkey make this salad a filling meal.

Is this salad good for holiday dinners?
Definitely! The maple, apple, and cranberry combo feels festive and makes a colorful addition to a Thanksgiving or Christmas table.

Sprinkle of Fun

Make it a “harvest moon picnic” night! Serve this salad alongside warm bread and cider, then head outside with blankets to watch the evening sky. If you’ve got little ones, turn it into a mini moon-gazing adventure. Bring a flashlight, look for constellations, or keep a journal of the different shapes you spot in the clouds and stars. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the crisp salad and the crisp autumn air.