Autumn Delicata Delight Salad

Celebrate the flavors of fall with this vibrant and hearty salad. Roasted Delicata squash melds with the earthiness of kale, the crunch of toasted pecans, and the sweetness of dried cranberries. A tangy apple cider vinaigrette brings it all together.

Ingredients:

• 1 Delicata squash, washed, halved lengthwise, seeded, and sliced into 1/2-inch half-moons
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 cups kale, destemmed and torn into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled (optional)
• 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds (pepitas)

For the Apple Cider Vinaigrette:

• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Roast the Delicata Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking sheet, toss the Delicata squash slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange them in a single layer and roast in the oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they're tender and slightly golden. Allow to cool.
2. Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. Adjust sweetness or acidity as per your taste.
3. Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, massage the kale with a little bit of the vinaigrette until the kale softens and becomes a darker green (about 2-3 minutes). This makes the kale more palatable and easier to digest.
4. Add Toppings: To the massaged kale, add the roasted Delicata squash, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, pumpkin seeds, and crumbled goat cheese (if using).
5. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the apple cider vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately for a crunchy texture, or let it sit for 10-15 minutes for the flavors to meld.

Serving Suggestion:This salad pairs beautifully with roasted meats, especially turkey or chicken. For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken or tofu on top.

Note: Delicata squash skin is tender when roasted and entirely edible, so there's no need to peel it. Enjoy the added texture and nutrients!

Enjoy the essence of fall in every bite! 🍁🍂🥗

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