From Orchard to Table: Apples, Fall Greens, and Seasonal Salads

Autumn in Monterey may not bring the fiery foliage of the Northeast, but it does offer a flavorful shift in the kitchen. As the season turns, our local farms and orchards deliver some of the year's most vibrant produce -- crisp apples, hearty greens, heirloom squash, and fragrant herbs -- all of which find their way onto the menu at Montrio.

For those who appreciate the lighter side of fall dining, seasonal salads and vegetable-forward dishes offer a fresh take on autumn flavors without the heaviness.

The Beauty of Fall Produce

Fall produce on the Central Coast is a mix of late-summer holdovers and new arrivals. The contrast creates exciting flavor profiles that our kitchen team loves to work with.

• Crisp, tart apples from nearby orchards
• Peppery arugula and tender butter lettuce
• Roasted beets in deep reds and golden hues
• Toasted nuts like pecans and walnuts
• Fresh herbs -- sage, thyme, and rosemary

These ingredients are the building blocks of our fall salads and lighter plates -- each one chosen for freshness, flavor, and seasonal relevance.

Seasonal Salad Highlights

Apple and Arugula Salad -- A play on sweet and peppery, this salad combines thinly sliced apples with fresh arugula, shaved Parmesan, toasted walnuts, and a light apple cider vinaigrette. It's a bright, refreshing way to start a fall meal.

Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad -- A Montrio favorite, this salad showcases the natural sweetness of roasted beets alongside creamy goat cheese, mixed greens, and a balsamic reduction. It's earthy, elegant, and deeply satisfying.

Butter Lettuce with Seasonal Fruit -- Simple and refined, this salad pairs soft butter lettuce with seasonal fruit, shaved radish, and a citrus-herb dressing. A lighter option that lets the ingredients shine.

Why Lighter Fall Dishes Matter

Not every fall meal needs to be braised, roasted, or covered in gravy. Lighter dishes offer balance -- especially when paired alongside richer entrees or enjoyed as a standalone meal.

At Montrio, we believe that seasonal salads and vegetable-forward plates deserve the same attention and creativity as any main course. The result is food that feels nourishing, fresh, and deeply connected to the season.

Pairing Salads with Wine

• A crisp Sauvignon Blanc with the apple and arugula salad
• A Pinot Gris with roasted beets and goat cheese
• A dry rose with butter lettuce and seasonal fruit

Our wine team is always happy to guide guests toward a pairing that complements the lighter side of the menu.

Come Taste Fall

Whether you're looking for a full autumn dinner or a lighter seasonal plate, Montrio has something for every appetite this fall.

Reserve your table and discover the fresh, seasonal side of autumn dining in Monterey.

Monterey, CA | 831.648.8880