In the realm of comforting salads, few dishes rival the warmth and satisfaction of a well-crafted Warm Butternut Squash Salad with Pecans, Blue Cheese, and Maple-Balsamic Dressing. This delightful ensemble of flavors brings together the earthiness of butternut squash, the crunch of pecans, the tang of blue cheese, and the sweetness of maple-balsamic dressing to create a culinary masterpiece that is both hearty and refreshing. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a vibrant addition to any meal, this salad is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire.
Ingredients:
• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 2 cups mixed greens
For the Maple-Balsamic Dressing:
• 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C): Begin by preheating your oven to the desired temperature to ensure it’s ready for roasting the butternut squash.
2. Prepare the butternut squash: Toss the butternut squash cubes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet.
3. Roast the squash: Place the prepared squash in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.
4. Prepare the dressing: While the squash is roasting, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until well combined to create the maple-balsamic dressing.
5. Cool the squash: Once the squash is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly to avoid wilting the greens.
6. Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the roasted squash, chopped pecans, crumbled blue cheese, dried cranberries, and mixed greens.
7. Dress and serve: Drizzle the maple-balsamic dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately to enjoy the flavors at their freshest.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Tips:
• For added depth of flavor, consider roasting the pecans alongside the butternut squash for a few minutes before adding them to the salad.
• If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cut butternut squash to expedite the preparation process.
• Feel free to customize the salad by incorporating other ingredients such as roasted beets, grilled chicken, or avocado slices.
Benefits:
• Butternut squash is a rich source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber, making it a nutritious addition to your diet.
• Pecans provide healthy fats and protein, while blue cheese adds a dose of calcium and protein to the salad.
• The mixed greens offer a variety of vitamins and minerals, contributing to overall health and well-being.
FAQs:
Q: Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
A: Yes, the dressing can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Q: Can I substitute the blue cheese with another cheese?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as feta, goat cheese, or even shaved Parmesan to suit your taste preferences.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, this Warm Butternut Squash Salad with Pecans, Blue Cheese, and Maple-Balsamic Dressing is a culinary symphony of flavors and textures that is as satisfying as it is nutritious. Whether enjoyed as a standalone meal or as a side dish to complement your favorite entrée, this salad is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you craving more. With its simple preparation and wholesome ingredients, it’s a recipe that embodies both comfort and elegance, making it a must-try for any occasion.