Autumn Delicata Squash Salad Recipe
Introduction
This Autumn Delicata Squash Salad is a vibrant mix of creamy roasted squash, crisp greens, and juicy pomegranate seeds. It’s a versatile, satisfying dish perfect for holiday tables or any cozy fall meal.
Ingredients
- 2 medium delicata squash
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 4 cups finely chopped kale (or romaine, arugula, mixed greens)
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/3 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/4 cup cheese (goat, feta, cotija, white cheddar, or Parmesan)
- Maple mustard dressing (recipe below)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 425ºF (220ºC). Slice the delicata squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds with a spoon. Cut the halves into thick half-moon slices.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, toss the squash slices with olive oil, maple syrup, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cinnamon until evenly coated.
- Step 3: Arrange the seasoned squash in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet, avoiding overlap. Roast for 25 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until tender and caramelized.
- Step 4: While the squash roasts, prepare the dressing by combining maple syrup, mustard, olive oil, and a splash of apple cider vinegar. Shake or whisk until smooth.
- Step 5: In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped kale, diced avocado, pumpkin seeds, and pomegranate seeds. Add the roasted delicata squash once slightly cooled.
- Step 6: Drizzle the maple mustard dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Sprinkle the cheese on top before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Swap kale for romaine, arugula, or mixed greens if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat in the squash seasoning.
- Use toasted walnuts or pecans instead of pumpkin seeds for a different crunch.
- For a vegan version, omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
- The salad pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, chicken, or a hearty soup.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The kale holds up well dressed, so it’s fine to prepare the salad in advance. Reheat the roasted squash gently in the oven or microwave before tossing with the salad if desired.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Do I need to peel delicata squash before roasting?
No, delicata squash has a tender, edible skin that softens when roasted, adding pleasant texture and flavor to the salad.
Can I prepare the salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the dressing up to 3 days in advance and slice and season the squash up to 1 day ahead. Toss the salad just before serving for the best texture.
PrintAutumn Delicata Squash Salad Recipe
This Autumn Delicata Squash Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish perfect for fall and holiday tables. Featuring roasted delicata squash with creamy, caramelized sweetness, combined with finely chopped kale, creamy avocado, crunchy pumpkin seeds, and fresh pomegranate seeds, it offers a delightful range of textures and tastes. Tossed in a maple mustard dressing and optionally topped with sharp cheese like goat, feta, or cotija, this salad is both satisfying and versatile, making it an excellent side or main dish for seasonal meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 2 medium delicata squash
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 4 cups finely chopped kale (or romaine, arugula, or mixed greens as alternatives)
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese, feta, cotija, or shaved Parmesan (optional)
For the Maple Mustard Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Delicata Squash: Preheat your oven to 425ºF (220ºC). Slice the delicata squash in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy bits. Then slice each half into thick half-moon pieces, keeping the skin on.
- Season the Squash: In a mixing bowl, toss the sliced squash with olive oil, maple syrup, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cinnamon until evenly coated.
- Roast the Squash: Spread the seasoned squash slices in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet without overlapping. Roast in the oven for 25 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through, until they are caramelized and tender.
- Toast the Pumpkin Seeds: While the squash is roasting, place the pumpkin seeds on a small baking tray and toast them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes until lightly browned and aromatic. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Shake or whisk well until emulsified.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped kale, diced avocado, roasted delicata squash, pumpkin seeds, and pomegranate seeds. Drizzle with the maple mustard dressing and toss gently to combine.
- Add Cheese and Serve: If using, sprinkle crumbled goat cheese, feta, cotija, or shaved Parmesan on top. Serve immediately or chill briefly before serving for flavors to meld.
Notes
- You can substitute the kale greens for romaine, arugula, or mixed greens if preferred.
- Make the dressing up to 3 days ahead; shake well before use.
- You can slice and season the squash 1 day ahead to save prep time.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Kale holds well even when dressed early.
- For a vegan version, omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
- This salad pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, chicken, vegan meatloaf, pasta dishes, or soups.
Keywords: Delicata squash salad, roasted squash salad, autumn salad, fall recipes, thanksgiving side dish, kale salad, maple mustard dressing, pumpkin seeds, pomegranate seeds, seasonal salad
