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Fall Salad with Maple-Lime Dressing Recipe

Fall Salad with Maple-Lime Dressing Recipe
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★★★★★

5.3 from 9 reviews

A vibrant and hearty fall salad featuring roasted butternut squash, bow tie pasta, baby spinach, pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, and creamy goat cheese, all tossed in a tangy and sweet maple-lime dressing. Perfect for a seasonal lunch or light dinner that celebrates autumn flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Roasted Butternut Squash

  • 1 lb butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Maple-Lime Dressing

  • ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • ¼ cup maple syrup
  • 1 small lime, juice freshly squeezed

Salad

  • 8 oz bow tie pasta
  • 1 cup pumpkin seeds, toasted
  • 8 oz baby spinach
  • 4 oz goat cheese
  • ½ cup dried cranberries

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Roast Butternut Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the squash in a single layer without overcrowding, and roast for 20-30 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized.
  2. Make Salad Dressing: In a mason jar or small bowl, combine extra virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and freshly squeezed lime juice. Whisk together vigorously until the dressing is emulsified and creamy. Adjust lime juice to taste for desired tanginess.
  3. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop cooking and cool it.
  4. Assemble the Salad: In a large serving bowl, combine roasted butternut squash, cooked pasta, baby spinach, toasted pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, and crumbled goat cheese. Drizzle with desired amount of maple-lime dressing, tossing gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
  5. Garnish and Serve: When ready to serve, sprinkle the salad with fresh thyme leaves (without woody sprigs) for an added burst of aroma and flavor. Serve immediately or chill briefly before enjoying.

Notes

  • Roast the butternut squash on a single layer to ensure even cooking and caramelization.
  • Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the best flavor in the dressing.
  • To toast pumpkin seeds, spread them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant.
  • You can substitute goat cheese with feta or omit for a dairy-free version.
  • Salad can be prepared ahead; store dressing separately and toss before serving to maintain freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: fall salad, roasted butternut squash salad, maple-lime dressing, autumn salad, pumpkin seeds salad, goat cheese salad, seasonal salad, healthy salad

Find it online: https://todayquickmeals.com/fall-salad-with-maple-lime-dressing-recipe/