This vibrant and nutritious squash salad is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a standout dish for any meal. The tender roasted squash adds a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the hearty kale. The highlight of the dish is the creamy roasted garlic dressing, which infuses the salad with a deep, rich flavor. This salad is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making it a healthy choice that doesn’t compromise on taste. Whether served as a light lunch or a side dish, this squash salad is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups kale, chopped and stems removed
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds
For the Roasted Garlic Dressing:
- 1 head of garlic
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Roast the Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it out on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and golden brown. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Dressing: While the squash is roasting, prepare the roasted garlic. Cut the top off the garlic head to expose the cloves, drizzle with a bit of olive oil, and wrap in aluminum foil. Roast in the oven for about 30 minutes, until the garlic is soft and caramelized. Once cool enough to handle, squeeze the roasted garlic out of the cloves into a blender. Add olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, massage the chopped kale with a small amount of the dressing until the leaves are tender. Add the roasted squash, dried cranberries, and toasted pumpkin seeds. Drizzle with additional dressing and toss to combine.
- Serve: Serve immediately, or let it chill in the refrigerator for an hour to allow the flavors to meld together. Enjoy this wholesome, flavorful salad as a satisfying meal or side dish!
