Description
This harvest-inspired salad perfectly balances the earthy sweetness of maple-roasted butternut squash with the satisfying crunch of spiced chickpeas. Set upon a bed of tender, massaged curly kale, it is elevated by creamy goat cheese and tart dried fruit. This wholesome, nutrient-dense composition is ideal for a crisp work-week lunch or as a vibrant centerpiece at your next holiday gathering.
Ingredients
4 cups peeled and cubed butternut squash (1/2-inch to 3/4-inch pieces)
1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 large bunch curly kale, stemmed and chopped
1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
1/4 cup dried cranberries or tart cherries
3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Toss the butternut squash and chickpeas with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, cumin, coriander, garlic powder, cinnamon, salt, and pepper on a large sheet pan.
Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized and chickpeas are slightly crispy, tossing halfway through.
While vegetables roast, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard in a large bowl to create the vinaigrette.
Add the chopped kale into the bowl with the dressing and massage the leaves with your hands for 2-3 minutes until they become tender and dark green.
Once the roasted mixture has cooled slightly, add it to the bowl with the kale.
Top with crumbled goat cheese and dried fruit before tossing gently to combine.
Notes
Ensure you rinse the chickpeas thoroughly and pat them dry so they get as crispy as possible in the oven. For a vegan version, simply omit the goat cheese or substitute with a plant-based feta alternative.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Modern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 10mg