Roasted Pumpkin & Feta Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that combines the sweetness of roasted pumpkin with creamy feta cheese, fresh greens, and a tangy dressing. This salad is perfect as a side dish or a light main course, especially during the fall season!

Ingredients

• 2 cups pumpkin (peeled and cubed)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 4 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, or kale)
• 1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
• 1/4 cup walnuts (toasted)
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries (or pomegranate seeds)

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Timing

Making Roasted Pumpkin & Feta Salad takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 25-30 minutes for roasting.

Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Pumpkin

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare Pumpkin: In a bowl, toss the cubed pumpkin with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Roast: Spread the pumpkin in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized, stirring halfway through.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

1. Mix Dressing Ingredients: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. Combine Greens: In a large salad bowl, add the mixed greens.
2. Add Roasted Pumpkin: Once the pumpkin is roasted and slightly cooled, add it to the salad bowl.
3. Top with Feta and Nuts: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese, toasted walnuts, and dried cranberries (or pomegranate seeds) over the top.
4. Drizzle Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.

Step 4: Serve

1. Enjoy: Serve immediately as a side dish or a light main course.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Roasted Pumpkin & Feta Salad (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	250
Protein	6g
Fat	18g
Carbohydrates	20g
Fiber	4g
Sugar	5g

Tips for Customization

• Add Protein: Include grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa to make it a more filling meal.
• Vegetable Variations: Incorporate other roasted vegetables like beets, sweet potatoes, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like parsley or mint for a refreshing touch.

Conclusion

Roasted Pumpkin & Feta Salad is a delicious and wholesome dish that beautifully combines roasted pumpkin with creamy feta and crunchy nuts. This salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a perfect addition to any meal. Enjoy this delightful recipe!