Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something healthy, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make? Then look no further! This Delicata Squash Salad is your answer. It's a delightful blend of sweet and savory, featuring the naturally sweet delicata squash roasted to perfection and tossed with a vibrant, tangy dressing. It's a perfect light meal, a stunning side dish, or a fantastic addition to your healthy meal prep plan. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and impressive enough for a dinner party. Get ready to discover a new favorite among your quick dinner ideas!
Ingredients:
- 1 medium delicata squash (about 1 pound), halved lengthwise, seeded, and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Roast the Squash: Toss the sliced delicata squash with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning; oven temperatures can vary.
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Make the Dressing: While the squash is roasting, whisk together the dressing ingredients (olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper) in a small bowl.
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Assemble the Salad: Once the squash is cooked and slightly cooled, gently toss it with the feta cheese, toasted pecans (or walnuts), dried cranberries, and fresh parsley.
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Dress & Serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately or chill for later. This salad tastes even better the next day, allowing the flavors to meld.
Tips for the Best Delicata Squash Salad:
- Choose the right squash: Select a firm, unblemished delicata squash for optimal flavor and texture.
- Thinly slice the squash: This ensures even roasting and prevents mushy squash.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure the squash slices are in a single layer on the baking sheet for even cooking.
- Toast your nuts: Toasting the pecans or walnuts enhances their flavor and adds a lovely crunch.
- Adjust the dressing: Feel free to adjust the amount of maple syrup or apple cider vinegar to suit your taste preferences.
Delicious Variations:
- Add protein: Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or crumbled bacon would be fantastic additions to this salad.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little kick.
- Change the cheese: Goat cheese or blue cheese would also be delicious substitutes for the feta.
- Seasonal Swaps: Use different dried fruits like cherries or apricots, or add other seasonal vegetables like roasted Brussels sprouts or pomegranate seeds.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This delicata squash salad is a delicious and healthy option for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful addition to your meal prep routine. Enjoy this easy, homemade cooking creation! It’s a recipe you'll want to add to your collection of best recipes.