Creating Delectable Fall Salads: A Perfect Pairing of Mariani Dried Fruit and Seasonal Ingredients
As the leaves start to change and the air gets crisper, it's time to embrace the vibrant flavors of fall with a twist on your favorite dishes. An easy and delicious way to elevate your fall meals is with autumn salads. Mariani dried fruit pairs well with seasonal ingredients, bringing a delightful burst of sweetness and texture to every bite. Here are some tips on how to create delectable fall salads.
- Balance Flavors: The key to a successful fall salad is balancing contrasting flavors. Choose a variety of Mariani dried fruits like apricots, cranberries, and prunes to complement the earthy tastes of autumn greens.
- Embrace Texture: Dried fruits add a chewy, contrasting texture to crisp salad greens. Combine Mariani dried apricots and peaches with toasted nuts for a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the softer ingredients. Sweet, chewy and crunchy, Mariani Toppers are also a great way to add texture.
- Mix Greens: Incorporate a mix of hearty greens like kale, arugula, and spinach as the base. Their robust flavors harmonize with the sweetness of dried fruits.
- Play with Cheese: Add depth to your salad with cheese selections such as goat cheese, feta, or blue cheese. These tangy options contrast beautifully with the dried fruit's sweetness. Try our Mango and Goat Cheese Salad with Roasted Sweet Potatoes for some cheese inspiration. YUM!
- Dress Thoughtfully: Opt for vinaigrettes that incorporate fall flavors like maple, apple cider, or balsamic vinegar. These dressings tie all the components together while enhancing the seasonal theme.
- Warm and Cozy: Adding roasted and warm vegetables such as brussels sprouts, carrots and winter squash immediately transitions a salad from a summer staple to a fall delight. Additionally, warm your dressings for a seasonal twist. The warmth helps bring out the flavors of the other ingredients, such as Mariani dried cherries. Our recipe for Shaved Brussels Sprouts and Squash with Warm Vinaigrette is a delicious example of a warm salad and is sure to me a staple on your autumn salad rotation.
By thoughtfully pairing Mariani dried fruit with seasonal ingredients, you can craft salads that are not only visually appealing but also a true celebration of the autumn season. The interplay of flavors and textures will undoubtedly make these salads the highlight of your fall dining experience. Enjoy!