Butternut Squash and Spinach Salad with Pecans, Cranberries, and Pomegranate is a delightful dish that perfectly bridges the gap between comfort food and healthy eating. With its vibrant colours and an array of textures, this salad is not just visually appealing, but it also offers a wonderful combination of flavours. The sweetness of roasted butternut squash, the earthiness of pecans, the tartness of cranberries, and the juicy bursts of pomegranate create an exciting taste experience. It’s an excellent option for a festive gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, and it’s packed with nutrients to nourish your body!
Gather Your Butternut Squash and Spinach Salad Ingredients
To whip up this colourful salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound (450 g) butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed into 1-inch cubes (about 3 cups uncooked)
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil (for roasting)
- Salt (to taste)
- 10 oz (280 g) baby spinach (about 10 cups of torn leaves)
- 1 cup (125 g) pecan halves
- 1/2 cup (75 g) dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup (90 g) pomegranate seeds
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) olive oil (for the dressing)
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) lime juice
- 3 tablespoons (60 ml) honey (softened)
- 1 tablespoon (15 g) poppy seeds
- 1 tablespoon (15 g) Dijon mustard
- Black pepper (to taste)
Step-by-Step Butternut Squash and Spinach Salad Recipe
Creating your Butternut Squash and Spinach Salad is simple. Just follow these steps:
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your butternut squash roasts evenly.
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Roast the Squash: Toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Spread the cubes on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelised. Remember to stir halfway through cooking for even roasting. Let the squash cool when finished.
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Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of olive oil, lime juice, softened honey, poppy seeds, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary for your liking.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the torn baby spinach, roasted butternut squash, pecan halves, dried cranberries, and pomegranate seeds. Drizzle the honey lime dressing over the top and gently toss everything together to combine all the lovely flavours.
Serve & Enjoy Your Salad
Plating your Butternut Squash and Spinach Salad beautifully can enhance the dining experience. Serve it in a large bowl or individual plates for a more elegant touch. Garnish with extra pomegranate seeds or pecans if you like. This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish and can be enjoyed warm or cold. It works great as a side dish at festive occasions or as a light main course for lunch.
Expert Tips for Butternut Squash and Spinach Salad
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Add More Crunch: For an extra crunch, consider adding thinly sliced apples or pears. They add a lovely sweetness and texture that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
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Make Ahead: You can roast the butternut squash in advance, allowing for easy assembly when it’s time to eat. Just remember to store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
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Vegan Option: To make this salad vegan, simply replace the honey with maple syrup or agave syrup in the dressing.
Butternut Squash and Spinach Salad FAQs
Can I use other greens instead of spinach?
Yes! Feel free to substitute spinach with kale, arugula, or mixed salad greens depending on your preference.
How long will leftovers keep?
The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just be mindful that the spinach might wilt.
Can I prepare this salad without roasting the squash?
While roasting brings out the sweetness of the butternut squash, you can use it raw if you prefer a crunchier salad. Just ensure to slice it thinly.
This Butternut Squash and Spinach Salad with Pecans, Cranberries, and Pomegranate is a scrumptious, healthy choice that you won’t want to miss out on. It’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and incredibly satisfying. Gather your ingredients, and give it a try — your taste buds will thank you!