Roasted Pumpkin and Beetroot Salad

 

This vibrant  salad combines sweet roasted pumpkin and earthy beetroot with creamy feta, crunchy seeds, and a tangy maple-Dijon  vinaigrette. It’s a perfect side dish or light meal full of flavor and texture.

Ingredients

For the  Salad:

• 2 cups pumpkin (butternut squash or kabocha), peeled and cubed

• 2 medium beets, peeled and cut into wedges

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (or goat cheese)

• 2 tablespoons pine nuts

• 2 tablespoons pepitas (pumpkin seeds)

• 3 cups arugula (or baby spinach/mixed greens)

For the Maple-Dijon Vinaigrette:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or balsamic vinegar)

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon maple syrup (or honey)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

  Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven:

     • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

  2. Roast the Vegetables:

     • In a large bowl, toss the pumpkin cubes and beet wedges with 2 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper.

     • Spread them in a single layer on the baking tray (keep beets separate if you want to prevent color bleeding).

     • Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and slightly caramelized. Let cool slightly.

  3. Toast the Seeds & Nuts:

     • In a dry pan over medium heat, lightly toast the pine nuts and pepitas for 2–3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Set aside.

  4. Make the Dressing:

     • In a small jar, whisk together 3 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp  vinegar, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp maple syrup, salt, and pepper.

  5. Assemble the Salad:

     • In a large bowl, toss the arugula with half the dressing.

     • Top with roasted pumpkin, beets, crumbled feta, and toasted seeds.

     • Drizzle with remaining dressing and serve immediately.

  Serving Suggestions:

  • Add pomegranate seeds or dried cranberries for extra sweetness.

  • Swap feta for goat cheese or vegan cheese if preferred.

  • Great with grilled chicken or salmon for a heartier meal.

  Enjoy this colorful, nutrient-packed salad!