11 Big-Bowl Halloween Salads With Crunchy Toppers

17

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Editorial Policy | Disclosure Policy

Spooky Spinach and Apple Salad With Pumpkin Seed Crunch

This Spooky Spinach and Apple Salad is a deliciously festive dish perfect for Halloween gatherings. Bright green spinach is complemented by the sweetness of fresh apples and a delightful crunch from pumpkin seeds. Tossed in a light, zesty dressing, this salad not only pleases the palate but also adds a vibrant touch to your holiday table.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by rinsing the fresh spinach leaves under cold water. After rinsing, pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Set aside in a large salad bowl.
2. Slice the Apples: Wash and core the green apples. Slice them into thin wedges or bite-sized pieces, leaving the skin on for added texture and color. Add the apple slices to the bowl of spinach.
3. Add Dried Cranberries: Sprinkle the dried cranberries over the spinach and apple mixture. This will provide a sweet contrast to the tartness of the apples and the bitterness of the spinach.
4. Toast the Pumpkin Seeds: In a small dry skillet over medium heat, add the pumpkin seeds. Toast them for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until they become fragrant and slightly golden. Remove from heat and allow to cool before adding to the salad.
5. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake until all ingredients are well combined.
6. Assemble the Salad: Once the pumpkin seeds have cooled, add them to the salad bowl with the spinach, apples, and cranberries. Drizzle the dressing over the salad.
7. Toss and Serve: Gently toss the salad until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Serve immediately for a fresh and crunchy Halloween treat.

Enjoy your Spooky Spinach and Apple Salad, a perfect blend of flavors and textures to make your Halloween feast delightful!

Mummy’s Delight: Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad

Mummy’s Delight: Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that adds a spooky yet sophisticated touch to your Halloween festivities. The earthy sweetness of roasted beets pairs wonderfully with creamy goat cheese, while crispy greens provide a fresh contrast. This salad not only looks delightful on the table but also satisfies with its unique mix of flavors and textures.

Cooking Steps:

1. Roast the Beets: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and trim the beets, wrapping each one in aluminum foil. Place them on a baking sheet and roast for about 45-60 minutes, or until a fork easily slides through the beets. Once done, remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before peeling the skin off. Once cool, chop the beets into bite-sized cubes.
2. Prepare the Greens: While the beets are roasting, wash and dry the mixed greens. Place them in a large salad bowl as the base of your salad.
3. Chop the Walnuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the chopped walnuts for 3-5 minutes until they are fragrant and golden. Stir frequently to avoid burning. Once toasted, remove from heat and let them cool.
4. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until the mixture is well combined and emulsified.
5. Assemble the Salad: Once the roasted beets and walnuts are ready, scatter the beet cubes and toasted walnuts over the mixed greens in the bowl. Crumble the goat cheese on top of the salad for a creamy addition.
6. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the prepared balsamic dressing over the salad. Use as much or as little as you prefer, depending on your taste.
7. Garnish and Serve: Gently toss the salad to combine all ingredients, ensuring that the dressing is evenly distributed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve immediately to enjoy the delightful textures and flavors of this Mummy’s Delight salad.

Enjoy this Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad, a bewitching addition to your Halloween celebrations!

Ghostly Grains: Quinoa Salad With Roasted Vegetables

Ghostly Grains: Quinoa Salad With Roasted Vegetables is a deliciously hearty and nutritious dish perfect for Halloween gatherings. This vibrant salad features fluffy quinoa tossed with an assortment of roasted vegetables, creating a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The addition of herbs and a zesty dressing enhances the dish, making it a satisfying side or main course that is sure to please everyone at your spooky soirée.

Cooking Steps:

1. Cook the Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and vegetable broth (or water). Bring to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
2. Preheat the Oven: While the quinoa is cooking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
3. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash, chop, and dice the bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion into bite-sized pieces. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped vegetables with minced garlic, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Toss until the vegetables are well coated.
4. Roast the Vegetables: Spread the seasoned vegetables evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through for even cooking.
5. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large salad bowl, combine the cooked quinoa and roasted vegetables. Add the chopped fresh parsley and lemon juice. Gently toss everything together until well mixed.
6. Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve warm or at room temperature, allowing the vibrant colors and flavors to shine. Enjoy this spooky yet satisfying Ghostly Grains salad at your Halloween feast!

Witch’s Brew: Kale Salad With Pomegranate and Walnuts

Witch’s Brew: Kale Salad With Pomegranate and Walnuts is a vibrant and nutritious dish that embraces the spirit of Halloween with its enchanting colors and flavors. This salad features tender kale tossed with sweet and tangy pomegranate seeds, crunchy walnuts, and a luscious dressing that ties it all together. It’s not only visually appealing but also packed with health benefits, making it a delightful addition to any Halloween feast.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the Kale: Start by rinsing the kale leaves thoroughly under cold water. Remove the tough stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Place the chopped kale in a large mixing bowl.
2. Massage the Kale: To make the kale more tender, drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over the chopped kale. Using your hands, massage the kale for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes softer and slightly wilted. This step enhances the flavor and texture of the salad.
3. Add the Pomegranate and Walnuts: Sprinkle the pomegranate seeds and chopped walnuts over the massaged kale. These ingredients will add a delightful crunch and natural sweetness to the salad.
4. Prepare the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, combine the remaining olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended.
5. Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the kale, pomegranate, and walnut mixture. Toss gently to guarantee all the ingredients are coated with the dressing.
6. Taste and Adjust: Give the salad a taste and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. You can add more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra zing.
7. Serve: If using feta cheese, sprinkle the crumbled feta over the top of the salad. Serve immediately, or allow the salad to sit for about 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld before serving. Enjoy this enchanting Witch’s Brew salad at your Halloween celebration!

Creepy Crawly Coleslaw With Crunchy Peanuts

Creepy Crawly Coleslaw With Crunchy Peanuts is a fun and spooky twist on a classic coleslaw, perfect for enlivening your Halloween spread. This dish features a mix of shredded cabbage and carrots, combined with a tangy dressing that includes a hint of sweetness. The addition of crunchy peanuts adds an unexpected texture, while a sprinkle of edible “crawlers” provides a playful Halloween touch.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by cleaning and preparing all your vegetables. Shred the green cabbage and carrots using a knife or a food processor. Thinly slice the red bell pepper and chop the green onions.
2. Combine the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, sliced red bell pepper, and green onions. Toss the vegetables together until they are well mixed.
3. Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and creamy.
4. Dress the Slaw: Pour the dressing over the mixed vegetables in the large bowl. Toss everything together gently to confirm that all the vegetables are coated with the dressing.
5. Add Crunch: Once the salad is dressed, fold in the chopped peanuts for an extra layer of crunch. Gently mix to incorporate the peanuts without breaking them down too much.
6. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the coleslaw and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or even a little more honey if you prefer a sweeter flavor.
7. Serve with a Halloween Twist: If you’re using edible decorations like gummy worms, add them to the top of the coleslaw for a creepy effect. Serve immediately, or let it chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to enhance the flavors before serving. Enjoy this fun and festive Creepy Crawly Coleslaw at your Halloween gathering!

Jack-o’-Lantern Carrot and Raison Salad

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the Carrots: Begin by washing and peeling the carrots. Grate the carrots using a box grater or food processor and place them in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the Raisins and Apple: Once the carrots are grated, add the raisins to the bowl. Cut the green apple into small cubes (about 1/2 inch) and add them as well. This will add a revitalizing crunch and sweetness to the salad.
3. Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, combine the lemon juice, honey, and Greek yogurt (or sour cream). Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This dressing will add creaminess and a hint of tanginess.
4. Mix Everything Together: Pour the dressing over the carrot mixture. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing.
5. Add Spices and Nuts: Sprinkle in the cinnamon and salt, then fold in the chopped walnuts if you’re using them. The walnuts will add a nice crunch and additional flavor to the salad.
6. Decorate for Halloween: For a fun jack-o’-lantern look, you can arrange the salad in a carved pumpkin or add candy eyes on top of the salad to make it look spooky.
7. Chill and Serve: Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve it in a festive bowl and enjoy this cheerful Jack-o’-Lantern Carrot and Raisin Salad at your Halloween festivities!

Haunting Harvest Salad With Crispy Chickpeas

The Haunting Harvest Salad with Crispy Chickpeas is a wonderfully festive dish that combines the richness of fall produce with the crunch of roasted chickpeas. This salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect addition to your Halloween table. Its combination of textures and flavors will leave everyone coming back for more!

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the Butternut Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and cube the butternut squash into small, bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, toss the squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Roast the Squash: Spread the seasoned butternut squash on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for around 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through.
3. Crispy Chickpeas: While the squash is roasting, drain and rinse a can of chickpeas under cold water. Pat them dry using a paper towel. In a separate bowl, toss the chickpeas with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet.
4. Roast the Chickpeas: Place the chickpeas in the oven once the butternut squash is nearly done (after about 15 minutes) and roast for about 20-25 minutes until they are crispy and golden, making sure to shake the pan halfway through to guarantee even cooking.
5. Prepare the Greens: In a large salad bowl, combine the fresh spinach and chopped kale. Add the dried cranberries and chopped pecans to the greens for extra flavor and texture.
6. Combine the Toppings: Once the roasted butternut squash and crispy chickpeas are ready, allow them to cool slightly. Then, add both to the salad bowl.
7. Add the Dressing: Drizzle the maple syrup over the salad, and toss gently to combine all the ingredients. Adding feta cheese can enhance the flavors beautifully, so sprinkle it on top once everything is mixed.
8. Garnish and Serve: If desired, sprinkle pumpkin seeds on top for an extra crunch and festive touch. Serve the Haunting Harvest Salad chilled or at room temperature for a delightful Halloween treat that will impress your guests!

Zombie Delight: Broccoli Salad With Bacon and Sunflower Seeds

Zombie Delight: Broccoli Salad With Bacon and Sunflower Seeds is a deliciously eerie dish that’s perfect for Halloween gatherings. This salad marries the crispness of fresh broccoli, the savory crunch of bacon, and the nutty flavor of sunflower seeds for a side dish that’s sure to please everyone. Its vibrant colors and textures not only make it festive but also provide a satisfying bite.

Cooking Steps:

1. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the bacon strips. Cook them until they are crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Be sure to flip them occasionally for even crisping. Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel to drain the excess grease and allow them to cool.
2. Prepare the Broccoli: While the bacon is cooking, wash the fresh broccoli florets under cold water. Chop them into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.
3. Chop the Bacon: Once the bacon is cooled, crumble it into small pieces and add to the bowl with the broccoli.
4. Add Other Ingredients: In the same mixing bowl, incorporate the diced red onion and sunflower seeds. Combine them with the broccoli and bacon.
5. Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, mix together the plain Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined and smooth.
6. Combine Everything: Pour the dressing over the broccoli, bacon, and other ingredients in the mixing bowl. Toss gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
7. Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve chilled and enjoy the eerie delight of this Zombie-inspired salad at your Halloween feast!

Dracula’s Delight: Tomato and Mozzarella Salad With Crisp Baguette

Dracula’s Delight is a vibrant and invigorating salad that captures the essence of Halloween with its bold colors and flavors. This delightful dish features ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all beautifully drizzled with a balsamic glaze. Paired with crispy baguette slices, it serves as a perfect appetizer or side dish to tantalize your taste buds during spooky celebrations.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the Baguette: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the baguette into ½-inch thick slices. Place the slices on a baking sheet and brush one side with olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for about 5-7 minutes or until they are golden and crispy. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
2. Slice the Tomatoes and Mozzarella: While the baguette is baking, wash and slice the ripe tomatoes into rounds. If using a ball of fresh mozzarella, slice it into similar-sized rounds to match the tomatoes.
3. Assemble the Salad: On a serving platter, layer the sliced tomatoes and mozzarella alternately, slightly overlapping them. Tuck fresh basil leaves between the layers for added flavor and visual appeal.
4. Drizzle with Olive Oil and Balsamic Glaze: In a small bowl, mix the olive oil with salt and pepper. Drizzle this mixture evenly over the arranged salad. Follow with a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy kick.
5. Serve with Crispy Baguette: Arrange the toasted baguette slices around the salad platter, allowing guests to scoop up the delicious tomato and mozzarella mixture with the crispy bread.
6. Final Touch: Optionally, garnish the salad with a few extra basil leaves for presentation. Serve immediately and enjoy the hauntingly delicious flavors of Dracula’s Delight during your Halloween festivities!

Goblin’s Green Salad With Avocado and Spiced Almonds

Goblin’s Green Salad is a vibrant and invigorating dish that embodies the spirit of Halloween with its striking green colors and nourishing ingredients. This delightful salad features creamy avocado, crisp greens, and spiced almonds, creating a crunchy, flavorful experience that is both satisfying and healthy. Perfect as a side dish or a main course, this salad is an excellent way to celebrate the spooky season while indulging in wholesome goodness.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the Spiced Almonds: If you don’t have spiced almonds, you can easily make them at home. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread ½ cup of raw almonds on a baking sheet. Drizzle with a little olive oil and sprinkle with paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until fragrant and golden, stirring halfway through. After baking, allow them to cool and chop roughly.
2. Prepare the Salad Greens: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, ensuring to wash and dry them if they are not pre-washed. This will create a fresh base for your salad.
3. Add the Vegetables: Dice the avocados and add them to the bowl. Then, slice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. Gently mix these ingredients into the greens, being careful not to mash the avocado.
4. Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. This zesty dressing will add flavor to your salad and bring all the ingredients together.
5. Combine the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients, ensuring everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
6. Top with Spiced Almonds: Finally, sprinkle the chopped spiced almonds over the top of the salad for an added crunch and a burst of flavor.
7. Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving platter or bowl, and enjoy immediately. This Goblin’s Green Salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a deliciously healthy option for your Halloween celebrations!

Frighteningly Fresh Fruit Salad With Crunchy Granola

Frighteningly Fresh Fruit Salad With Crunchy Granola is a vibrant and healthy dish that embraces the fun and festive spirit of Halloween. This colorful salad features a mix of seasonal fruits that are both delicious and nutritious, combined with a sprinkle of crunchy granola for an added texture and flavor. It’s a perfect treat to delight guests at your Halloween gathering or as a revitalizing dessert.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the Fruit: Begin by washing and drying all the fruits. Chop the apples and bananas into bite-sized pieces. Halve the grapes, slice the kiwi, and slice the strawberries into quarters. Combine all the chopped fruits in a large mixing bowl.
2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, mix together the lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, and cinnamon. This dressing will enhance the natural sweetness of the fruits and add a hint of spice.
3. Combine the Ingredients: Pour the dressing over the mixed fruit in the large bowl. Gently toss the fruits to make sure they are well-coated with the dressing, being careful not to mash them.
4. Add the Granola: Once the fruit is evenly mixed with the dressing, fold in the crunchy granola. This adds a satisfying crunch to the salad.
5. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or platter. Garnish with fresh mint leaves to add a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor. Enjoy this Frighteningly Fresh Fruit Salad as a delicious and revitalizing Halloween treat!