Description
A warm and hearty winter salad loaded with roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, carrots, mixed greens, nuts, and dried cranberries, all tossed in a tangy apple cider vinaigrette. This colorful and nutritious salad offers an excellent balance of textures and flavors, perfect for a healthy Mediterranean-inspired meal or side dish during the colder months.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 cup butternut squash, cubed
- 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 2 cups mixed greens or kale
- ¼ cup pecans or walnuts
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Dressing Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- ½ tsp Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the vegetables.
- Prepare the vegetables: In a large bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash, halved Brussels sprouts, and sliced carrots with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper to coat evenly.
- Roast the vegetables: Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 20 to 25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through for even cooking.
- Prepare the dressing: While the vegetables are roasting, whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup, and ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard until well combined.
- Assemble the salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens or kale, roasted vegetables, pecans or walnuts, and dried cranberries.
- Add the dressing: Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Serve: Serve the salad warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For added creaminess, consider topping the salad with goat cheese or feta.
- This salad can be enjoyed warm straight from the oven or served at room temperature.
- To make the salad vegan, substitute honey with pure maple syrup.
- You can substitute pecans or walnuts with your preferred nuts like almonds or pine nuts.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
