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15 Fresh Salad Recipes to Elevate Your Canadian Thanksgiving at the Cottage

Get ready to take your Thanksgiving feast at the cottage or anywhere to the next level with these 15 delectable Thanksgiving salads. From vibrant seasonal greens to creative twists on classic recipes, these salads are sure to add a burst of flavor and color to your holiday table.

Gather around, salad lovers, Thanksgiving enthusiasts, and aficionados of all things green and crunchy! As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, we’re diving deep into the Thanksgiving spirit, exploring salads that could steal the spotlight from the traditional turkey! 

Whether you’re a fan of the classics, eager to try something new, or part of the ‘greens-are-for-bunnies’ crowd, our selection of popular  Thanksgiving salads is here to shake up and elevate your holiday feast.

Hey these salads are not just a healthy and colorful addition but also a flavorful explosion, complementing the rich and savory flavors of your turkey and stuffing.

Creating this collection of Thanksgiving salads involved a delightful journey through a myriad of recipes, each with its unique flavor profile, texture, and origin. The goal was to curate a diverse and inclusive list that caters to a variety of taste buds and dietary preferences, ensuring that every guest at the Thanksgiving table finds something they love 🙂

Harvest Salad Showcase

  1. “Cranberry Walnut Fusion”
  2. “Revamped Classic Caesar”
  3. “Vibrant Rainbow Veggie Bowl”
  4. “Hearty Sweet Potato and Quinoa Blend”
  5. “Crunchy Apple Pecan Arugula Mix”
  6. “Pet-Friendly Veggie Medley”
  7. “Interactive Kid’s Creative Salad Bar”
  8. “Time-Honored Classic Coleslaw”
  9. “Refreshing Festive Fruit Mix”
  10. “Nutty Pumpkin Seed Spinach Combo”
  11. “Elegant Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Mingle”
  12. “Zesty Southwestern Black Bean Mix”
  13. “Refreshing Mediterranean Orzo Medley”
  14. “Crunchy Asian-Inspired Slaw”
  15. “Italian-Inspired Caprese Avocado Fusion”

What Salad Will You Try?

1. Apple Walnut Salad with Cranberry Vinaigrette:

Indulge in the perfect blend of sweet and savory with our Apple Walnut Salad featuring a delightful Cranberry Vinaigrette. Crisp apple slices and crunchy walnuts are tossed with fresh greens and then drizzled with a tangy cranberry vinaigrette that adds a burst of seasonal flavors to your plate. This refreshing salad is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visually appealing addition to your table. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any autumn gathering, it’s a delicious way to celebrate the season.

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2. Caesar Salad:

Classic and timeless, our Caesar Salad is a culinary masterpiece that needs no introduction. Crisp romaine lettuce is generously coated in a creamy Caesar dressing, then adorned with crunchy croutons and a shower of grated Parmesan cheese. The harmonious blend of flavors and textures in this salad is simply irresistible. Whether served as an appetizer or a hearty main course, this Caesar Salad is a universally beloved dish that will elevate any meal to a new level of satisfaction.

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3. Vibrant Rainbow Veggie Bowl:

This vibrant bowl is the pride of the Pacific Northwest and British Columbia, uniting a spectrum of fresh veggies in a nutritious and flavorful embrace!

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4. New England and Martime-Inspired Apple Sweet Potato Quinoa Salad:

Dive into the heart of autumn with a scrumptious Apple Sweet Potato Quinoa Salad, a dish that encapsulates the essence of New England’s harvest season. This nutritious concoction brings together the hearty warmth of roasted sweet potatoes, the crisp tang of apples, and the wholesome goodness of quinoa, all tied together with a zesty Maple Vinaigrette. Adorn your dinner table with this vegetarian delight, whether for a cozy family dinner or a Thanksgiving feast, and let the flavors transport you to the picturesque autumnal landscapes of New England and Canada’s Martimes.

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5. Crunchy Apple Pecan Arugula Mix:

This crunchy, peppery delight is a cherished recipe in the apple-abundant regions of Quebec and the Northeastern USA, offering a symphony of contrasting flavors and textures!

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6. Pet-Friendly Veggie Medley:

Our four-legged companions get a seat at the table with this refreshing mix of pet-friendly veggies, a popular choice for pet parents across North America, ensuring it’s safe for both dogs and cats.

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7. Couscous Kid Salad:

Introducing the Couscous Kid Salad, a delightful and nutritious option for the young ones at your table. This kid-friendly salad features fluffy couscous mixed with a colorful assortment of fresh vegetables, making it visually appealing and packed with vitamins. The mild and appealing flavors are perfect for even the pickiest eaters, and the simple preparation ensures a quick and hassle-free meal. The Couscous Kid Salad is not only tasty but also a great way to introduce children to a variety of veggies in a fun and enjoyable manner.

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8. Mom’s Chopped Coleslaw:

Mom’s Chopped Coleslaw is a cherished family recipe that’s all about classic comfort. Crisp cabbage, carrots, and onions are finely chopped and tossed in a creamy, homemade dressing that’s both tangy and slightly sweet. This coleslaw embodies the nostalgic flavors of homemade comfort food, making it the perfect side dish for picnics, barbecues, or any meal where you crave that authentic, homemade taste. Simple, fresh, and full of love, it’s a coleslaw recipe that will take you right back to Mom’s kitchen.

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9. Refreshing Festive Fruit Mix:

This sweet and tangy concoction is a refreshing delight, celebrated from the sunny orchards of British Columbia to the citrus-rich groves of Florida!

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10. Nutty Pumpkin Seed Spinach Combo:

This simple, flavorful salad, rich with pumpkin seeds, is a favorite in the pumpkin-abundant regions of Atlantic Canada and the Great Lakes!

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11. Beet and Goat Cheese Salad:

Indulge in the vibrant and exquisite flavors of our Beet and Goat Cheese Salad. This elegant dish combines tender roasted beets with creamy goat cheese crumbles, creating a harmonious balance of earthy and tangy notes. A drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette ties it all together, enhancing the richness of the ingredients. Whether as an appetizer or a light main course, this salad is a celebration of freshness and sophistication, perfect for elevating your dining experience with a burst of color and flavor.

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12. Zesty Southwestern Black Bean Mix:

This zesty salad, brimming with black beans and corn, brings a Southwestern flair to the table, making it a hit from Texas to New Mexico!

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13. Mediterranean Zucchini and Chickpea Salad:

Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with our flavorful Zucchini and Chickpea Salad. Fresh zucchini ribbons and hearty chickpeas are tossed in a zesty Mediterranean-inspired dressing, creating a light and refreshing salad that’s bursting with wholesome ingredients. This salad is not only a feast for the palate but also a nutritious and satisfying option for any meal. Packed with Mediterranean flavors like lemon, olive oil, and herbs, it’s a delightful dish that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table with every bite.

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14. Crunchy Thai Salad:

Get ready to experience an explosion of flavors and textures with our Crunchy Thai Salad. This vibrant dish combines a colorful medley of fresh vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, and cucumbers, with the irresistible crunch of peanuts and crispy wonton strips. Tossed in a tangy and slightly spicy Thai-inspired dressing, this salad offers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy elements. Whether enjoyed as a light meal or a zesty side dish, the Crunchy Thai Salad is a delightful journey for your taste buds, delivering the bold and exciting flavors of Thai cuisine in every bite.

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15. Italian-Inspired Caprese Avocado Fusion:

This Italian-inspired salad, combining fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and avocados, is a refreshing delight that’s savored from the Italian neighborhoods of Boston to the vibrant communities of Vancouver!

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Conclusion:

So, there you have it, a symphony of salads ready to make a grand entrance at your Thanksgiving table! From the earthy tones of roasted beets to the refreshing zest of Mediterranean orzo, these salads are a harmonious blend of flavors, textures, and nutrients.

Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering at the cabin or a grand family reunion at the cottage, these popular Thanksgiving salads are sure to be a hit. 

Here’s to a feast that’s balanced, colorful, and filled with the joy of sharing and gratitude! Happy Thanksgiving, and may your table be filled with love, laughter, and delectable salads! And don’t forget to share your salad creations and experiences with us!

Frequently asked questions we came across in our research:

  1. In 2023, Thanksgiving Day in Canada is Monday, October 9.
  2. In 2024, Thanksgiving Day in Canada is Monday, October 14.
  3. In 2025, Thanksgiving Day in Canada is Monday, October 13.
  4. In 2026, Thanksgiving Day in Canada is Monday, October 12.
  5. In 2027, Thanksgiving Day in Canada is Monday, October 11.
  6. In 2028, Thanksgiving Day in Canada is Monday, October 9.
  7. In 2029, Thanksgiving Day in Canada is Monday, October 8.
  8. In 2030, Thanksgiving Day in Canada is Monday, October 14.
  1. In 2023, Thanksgiving Day in the USA is Thursday, November 23.
  2. In 2024, Thanksgiving Day in the USA is Thursday, November 28.
  3. In 2025, Thanksgiving Day in the USA is Thursday, November 27.
  4. In 2026, Thanksgiving Day in the USA is Thursday, November 26.
  5. In 2027, Thanksgiving Day in the USA is Thursday, November 25.
  6. In 2028, Thanksgiving Day in the USA is Thursday, November 23.
  7. In 2029, Thanksgiving Day in the USA is Thursday, November 22.
  8. In 2030, Thanksgiving Day in the USA is Thursday, November 28.

Unstuffed Turkey Cooking Times (at 325°F):

  • 4 to 8 pounds (breast only): 1 1/2 to 3 1/4 hours
  • 8 to 12 pounds: 2 3/4 to 3 hours
  • 12 to 14 pounds: 3 to 3 3/4 hours
  • 14 to 18 pounds: 3 3/4 to 4 1/4 hours
  • 18 to 20 pounds: 4 1/4 to 4 1/2 hours
  • 20 to 24 pounds: 4 1/2 to 5 hours

Stuffed Turkey Cooking Times (at 325°F):

  • 6 to 8 pounds (breast only): 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 hours
  • 8 to 12 pounds: 3 to 3 1/2 hours
  • 12 to 14 pounds: 3 1/2 to 4 hours
  • 14 to 18 pounds: 4 to 4 1/4 hours
  • 18 to 20 pounds: 4 1/4 to 4 3/4 hours
  • 20 to 24 pounds: 4 3/4 to 5 1/4 hours

Plan for 1 to 1.5 pounds of turkey per person. If you want ample leftovers, consider purchasing a larger bird.

Generally, allow 24 hours of thawing for every 5 pounds by placing the wrapped turkey on a rimmed baking sheet or in a container. For a quicker thawing method, especially for last-minute situations, submerge the wrapped bird in cold water and change the water every 30 minutes. This method should take 2 to 3 hours for every 5 pounds. Always ensure the water remains cold to prevent bacterial growth.

A meat thermometer is essential. The thickest part of the thigh should reach 165°F (74°C), as should the innermost part of the wing and the thickest part of the breast.

While stuffing inside the turkey can be flavorful, there’s a safety concern if it doesn’t reach 165°F (74°C). Many choose to cook stuffing separately to ensure even cooking and safety.

Yes, but it will take at least 50% longer than a fully thawed bird. When cooking from frozen, remove the giblet packet with tongs about halfway through the cooking time. Ensure the deepest part of the thigh registers 165°F with an instant-read thermometer.