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–+ servings
Fall Salad with Maple-Lime Dressing

Fall Salad with Maple-Lime Dressing for Cozy Gatherings

This Fall Salad with Maple-Lime Dressing is a vibrant blend of roasted butternut squash, goat cheese, and pumpkin seeds—perfect for any cozy gathering.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad Base
  • 2 cups Butternut Squash Substitution: Can use sweet potatoes for a similar effect.
  • 8 oz Bow Tie Pasta Any pasta shape can work, keeping in mind cooking time.
  • 4 cups Baby Spinach Alternative: Kale or mixed greens are options.
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard Alternative: Yellow mustard can be substituted, though flavor will differ.
  • 2 tablespoons Maple Syrup Substitution: Honey can be used for a different sweetness profile.
  • 1 tablespoon Lime Juice Freshly squeezed is best for flavor.
For Toppings and Garnish
  • 1/2 cup Pumpkin Seeds Toasting enhances flavor; can replace with other nuts or seeds.
  • 4 oz Goat Cheese Substitution: Feta cheese works well if goat cheese is not available.
  • 1/2 cup Dried Cranberries Alternative: Pomegranate arils can add a fresh crunch.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Bowls
  • Baking Sheet
  • Mason Jar
  • Colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Fall Salad with Maple-Lime Dressing
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel, seed, and cube the butternut squash, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-30 minutes until tender.
    Fall Salad with Maple-Lime Dressing
  2. In a jar or bowl, combine olive oil, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and lime juice. Shake or whisk until emulsified; adjust seasoning as desired.
    Fall Salad with Maple-Lime Dressing
  3. Bring salted water to a boil and cook bow tie pasta according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and cool under cold water to prevent mushiness.
    Fall Salad with Maple-Lime Dressing
  4. In a bowl, combine roasted squash, pasta, pumpkin seeds, spinach, goat cheese, and cranberries. Pour dressing over and toss to combine.
    Fall Salad with Maple-Lime Dressing
  5. Transfer salad to serving dish, garnish with fresh thyme, and enjoy warm or chilled.
    Fall Salad with Maple-Lime Dressing

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 12gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 5000IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, assemble just before serving to maintain freshness.

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