Name: Autumn Harvest Platter Salad with Whipped Ricotta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 3 medium beets, peeled and cubed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 ripe avocado, diced; 1/2 cup ricotta cheese; 2 tablespoons cream or milk; 2 tablespoons tahini; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 tablespoon chili-infused olive oil (or olive oil + chili flakes); 1/4 cup roasted macadamia nuts, roughly chopped; Pickled red onions, for garnish; Fresh mint leaves, for garnish; 1 teaspoon black sesame seeds

As the leaves start to change and the air becomes crisp, there’s nothing like the warm embrace of seasonal flavors to brighten up your dining table. The Autumn Harvest Platter Salad with Whipped Ricotta, Tahini-Lemon Drizzle, and Roasted Macadamias is a celebration of fall’s finest ingredients that will not only satisfy your taste buds but also bring vibrant colors to your plate. This hearty salad features roasted sweet potatoes and beets, combined with creamy avocado and a silky whipped ricotta that makes each bite a delightful experience.

One of the best parts of this fall salad is its versatility. Whether you serve it as a show-stopping side dish for Thanksgiving dinner or enjoy it as a light and filling main course, this salad is sure to impress. With its array of textures, from crunchy macadamias to soft whipped ricotta, and bursts of flavor from tahini and lemon, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for seconds. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients—perfect for those looking to enjoy indulgent flavors without compromising on health.

Cooking and assembling the Autumn Harvest Platter Salad isn’t just about following instructions; it’s an opportunity to embrace the seasonal bounty and create a dish that feels both hearty and refreshing. Join me as we dive into why you’ll love this salad, the preparation phase, and the step-by-step process to put this delightful dish together.

Why You’ll Love This Autumn Harvest Platter Salad

Seasonal Ingredients: Embrace the flavors of fall with sweet potatoes, beets, and fresh avocado.
Colorful Presentation: The vibrant hues of this salad make it a centerpiece that will brighten any table.
Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, this salad is as good for you as it is delicious.
Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a side dish or a light main course, ideal for any meal.
Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can whip this dish up in no time, making it accessible even for beginners.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before we jump into preparing this gorgeous salad, it’s essential to set up your kitchen for success. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it ready for roasting those sweet potatoes and beets. You’ll need baking sheets lined with parchment paper to avoid sticking and easy cleanup. As for tools, a large mixing bowl for tossing the veggies, a blender or whisk to whip the ricotta, and a small bowl for mixing the tahini-lemon drizzle will make the process go smoothly. Having a cutting board and a sharp knife will also be helpful for chopping the vegetables and avocado. Don’t forget your serving platter—it’ll be the star of the show!

Ingredients

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
3 medium beets, peeled and cubed
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 ripe avocado, diced
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
2 tablespoons cream or milk
2 tablespoons tahini
Juice of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon chili-infused olive oil (or olive oil + chili flakes)
1/4 cup roasted macadamia nuts, roughly chopped
Pickled red onions, for garnish
Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
1 teaspoon black sesame seeds

Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Veggies

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, toss the cubed sweet potatoes and beets in a mixing bowl with the olive oil, ensuring they’re well-coated. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to enhance their natural sweetness. Spread them out evenly on a lined baking sheet and roast in the oven for about 25–30 minutes, or until they’re tender and golden brown. When they’re done, set them aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Whip the Ricotta

In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the cream or milk. Using a whisk or blender, whip them together until you achieve a light and fluffy consistency. This will add a creamy element to your salad and perfectly balance the roasted flavors of the vegetables. Once whipped, set aside, allowing the flavors to meld together while you prepare the remaining components.

Step 3: Make the Tahini-Lemon Drizzle

Now, let’s create that zesty drizzle that will take your salad to the next level. In a small bowl, mix together the tahini and fresh lemon juice. If the mixture is too thick, thin it out with a bit of water—1–2 teaspoons should do the trick. You’ll want a pourable consistency that can easily drizzle over the salad while adding a bright citrus flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the Platter

It’s time to bring this beautiful dish together. Start by spreading the roasted sweet potatoes and beets across your serving platter. Add the diced avocado chunks throughout, making sure to showcase the beautiful colors and contrast of the ingredients. Then, take the whipped ricotta and spoon it in dollops or swirls across the salad. This step not only adds flavor but a delightful creaminess that enhances every bite.

Step 5: Add Toppings

To finish off your salad, drizzle the tahini-lemon sauce and the chili-infused olive oil over the top, giving it an extra kick. Next, sprinkle the roasted macadamia nuts and black sesame seeds to introduce crunch and texture. Finally, add pickled red onions and garnish with fresh mint leaves. Your Autumn Harvest Platter Salad is now ready to be served!

Variations

Protein: To add protein, consider incorporating grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa for a more filling meal.
Vegetables: Feel free to swap out the sweet potatoes and beets for other seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or butternut squash.
Spices: Experiment with spices such as cumin or smoked paprika in the roasting phase for a flavor twist.

Cooking Notes

Ensure your oven is fully preheated before roasting vegetables for the best caramelization.
Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the most flavorful outcome.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this salad with grilled meats or fish for a balanced meal experience.
Serve on a large platter for gatherings or family-style dining to encourage sharing.

Tips

Make the whipped ricotta ahead of time and store it in the fridge to save time on the day of serving.
For added flavor, experiment with different oils for drizzling—try walnut oil or a herb-infused oil.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
Protein: 8g
Sodium: 210mg

FAQs

Can I make the salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the roasted vegetables and whipped ricotta ahead of time. Just add the toppings and drizzle just before serving to keep it fresh.

What can I use instead of tahini?

If you don’t have tahini, you can substitute it with almond butter for a different flavor, or omit it altogether and use extra lemon juice.

Is this dish vegan-friendly?

To make it vegan, substitute the ricotta with a plant-based cheese alternative, and ensure your cream or milk is non-dairy.

What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The vegetables can be reheated, but it’s best to add fresh avocado and toppings when serving again.

Conclusion

The Autumn Harvest Platter Salad with Whipped Ricotta, Tahini-Lemon Drizzle, and Roasted Macadamias is not just a dish, it’s an experience—a way to celebrate the bountiful harvest of fall while creating a beautiful and nutritious meal. With its layers of flavor, stunning presentation, and healthful ingredients, this salad is bound to become a favorite in your home. We hope you enjoy every bite as much as we do! Don’t forget to let us know how your version turns out, share your variations, or enlighten us with your creative twists in the comments below!