Integrative Health Coach + Wellness Chef

Roasted Squash Salad with Pomegranate Vinaigrette


Prep Time

15 minutes

Prep Notes

Free of: gluten, dairy, corn, soy, eggs

Cooking Time

45 minutes

Yields

3-4 servings

Ingredients

Salad:

1 6oz bag spinach

3 cups butternut squash, peeled and medium dice

1 Tbsp grape seed oil

2 cups pomegranate arils

1 cup raw & shelled pumpkin seeds, toasted

1 Tbsp Wildtree Ethiopian Spice Blend (optional, but highly recommended!) 

OR use this seasoning blend:

- 1/2 tsp paprika

- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

- 1/2 tsp cinnamon

- 1/4 tsp cumin

- 1/4 tsp garlic powder

- 1/4 tsp onion

Pomegranate Vinaigrette:

1 Tbsp minced shallot

1 Tbsp pomegranate molasses (see note)

1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar

2 tsp fresh lemon juice

2 tsp chopped fresh thyme

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

2 tsp water

salt and pepper to taste

*Note - To make your own, simmer 4 cups pomegranate juice, uncovered, in a medium nonreactive saucepan over medium heat until thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, 45-50 minutes. (Don't let syrup reduce too much or it will darken and become very sticky.) Makes about 1/2 cup. 


Directions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. 

To prepare vinaigrette: Mix shallot, pomegranate molasses, vinegar, lemon juice, and thyme in a small bowl. Whisk in 1/4 cup oil, then water. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.

To prepare the butternut squash: Place squash in large bowl, drizzle with grape seed oil and Wildtree Ethiopian Spice Blend, and toss to coat. Line baking sheet, and spread squash in a single layer. Roast, stirring once or twice, until fork tender, about 15-20 minutes. Let cool. 

To prepare the toasted pumpkin seeds: Place raw pumpkin seeds in a medium saute pan and roast on stove over very low heat for about 10 minutes. Let cool.

To prepare the salad: Place spinach, pomegranate arils, toasted pumpkin seeds, and butternut squash in large bowl and toss with pomegranate vinaigrette to serve.