Name: Autumn Glow Salad with Lemon Dressing
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 1 cup freekeh or other grain (quinoa, bulgur, etc.); 1 head cauliflower, chopped into florets; 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; A sprinkle of dried spices you like or a few sprigs of thyme, rosemary, etc.; 1 large apple, chopped or sliced; 1 bunch parsley (about 1 cup), minced; 1 small clove garlic, minced; 2/3 cup olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon (more to taste); 1 teaspoon agave (optional); 1/2 teaspoon salt; Pepper, to taste

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad balances sweet, savory, and tangy flavors while offering a satisfying mix of textures. Roasted vegetables provide warmth and depth, apples add crunch and natural sweetness, and grains give the salad body and substance. The lemon-parsley dressing brightens the dish with fresh, zesty notes, making it a wholesome, feel-good meal. It’s naturally vegan, gluten-free (depending on your grain choice), and perfect for lunch, dinner, or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Salad:

1 cup freekeh or other grain (quinoa, bulgur, etc.)
1 head cauliflower, chopped into florets
2 sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 tablespoon olive oil
A sprinkle of dried spices you like or a few sprigs of thyme, rosemary, etc.
1 large apple, chopped or sliced

For the Lemon Dressing:

1 bunch parsley (about 1 cup), minced
1 small clove garlic, minced
2/3 cup olive oil
Juice of one lemon (more to taste)
1 teaspoon agave (optional)
1/2 teaspoon salt
Pepper, to taste

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cauliflower and sweet potatoes with olive oil and your chosen spices. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway, until tender and lightly caramelized.
Cook the grain according to package instructions. Set aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the lemon dressing by whisking together minced parsley, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, agave (if using), salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the roasted vegetables, cooked grain, and chopped apple. Drizzle with the lemon dressing and toss gently to coat.
Serve immediately or chill for an hour to let flavors meld. Garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of nuts or seeds if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Swap freekeh for quinoa, farro, or bulgur for different textures.
Add roasted nuts, pumpkin seeds, or pomegranate seeds for crunch and color.
Include roasted beets or carrots for additional seasonal veggies.
Use a splash of apple cider vinegar in the dressing for extra tang.
Make it a grain-free salad by omitting the grain and adding extra roasted vegetables.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad is best served chilled or at room temperature. If desired, reheat the roasted vegetables separately and toss with fresh grain and dressing before serving.

FAQs

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes, roast the vegetables and cook the grain in advance. Assemble with apples and dressing just before serving to maintain freshness.

Can I make the dressing without agave?

Yes, the agave is optional and can be replaced with honey or omitted entirely.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, if you use a gluten-free grain such as quinoa or certified gluten-free freekeh.

Can I add protein?

Yes, grilled chicken, tofu, chickpeas, or lentils make excellent protein additions.

How do I store leftovers without the salad getting soggy?

Store the roasted vegetables, grains, and dressing separately. Add the apple and dressing just before serving.

Conclusion

Autumn Glow Salad with Lemon Dressing is a colorful, nourishing salad that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. With roasted vegetables, sweet apples, hearty grains, and a bright, zesty dressing, it’s a versatile dish perfect for lunch, dinner, or entertaining. Enjoy the flavors and textures of fall in every bite with this wholesome, feel-good salad.