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Roasted Spiced Fall Vegetable Salad

This salad features roasted squash coated in warm spices like cumin and cinnamon, combined with fresh greens and crunchy toppings. The roasting process caramelizes the vegetables, adding sweetness and a tender texture, while the salad maintains a vibrant and inviting appearance with bright citrus accents.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Autumn
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound butternut squash or pumpkin peeled and cubed
  • 2 teaspoons cumin seeds ground or whole, toasted
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for roasting
  • 4 cups mixed greens arugula, spinach, or lettuce
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 small red onion thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon citrus juice lemon or orange
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup optional sweetness
  • ¼ cup toasted pumpkin seeds for crunch

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Large salad bowl

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed squash with olive oil, ground cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper until evenly coated, then spread it out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  2. Roast the squash in the oven for about 30-40 minutes, turning once or twice, until it is tender and caramelized around the edges, filling your kitchen with a warm, spicy aroma.
  3. While the squash is roasting, prepare the salad dressing by whisking together citrus juice and honey or maple syrup in a small bowl. Set aside to combine flavors.
  4. In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion for a vibrant and crunchy base.
  5. Once the roasted squash has cooled slightly, add it to the salad bowl, allowing its sweet caramelized edges to complement the fresh greens.
  6. Drizzle the citrus dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
  7. Sprinkle the toasted pumpkin seeds on top for crunch and added flavor, and give the salad one last gentle toss.
  8. Serve the salad immediately, allowing the warm roasted squash to contrast with the crisp greens and bright acidity of the citrus.