Squash Acorn Pepitas Cranberries

Hey y’all! Today, I’m excited to share with you some delicious recipes featuring one of my favorite fall ingredients - acorn squash. This vibrant and versatile vegetable is not only packed with nutrients, but it also adds a delightful flavor and texture to any dish. So, let’s dive into these mouthwatering acorn squash salad recipes!

Roasted Acorn Squash Salad with Spicy Pepitas and Cranberries

First up, we have this delightful Roasted Acorn Squash Salad with Spicy Pepitas and Cranberries. The combination of the naturally sweet roasted acorn squash, the crunchy pepitas, and the tart cranberries creates a perfect balance of flavors. Plus, the vibrant colors make this salad a feast for the eyes!

Ingredients:

• 1 medium acorn squash, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup pepitas
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• 4 cups mixed salad greens
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
• For the dressing:
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the sliced acorn squash on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
2. In the meantime, prepare the dressing by combining apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Whisk until well combined.
3. In a dry skillet, toast the pepitas over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
4. In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, roasted acorn squash slices, toasted pepitas, dried cranberries, and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle with the prepared dressing and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Preparation time: 40 minutes

This Roasted Acorn Squash Salad with Spicy Pepitas and Cranberries is perfect for a light lunch or a side dish. The sweetness of the roasted acorn squash pairs beautifully with the tanginess of the dressing, and the crunchy textures of the pepitas and cranberries add an extra layer of deliciousness.

Acorn Squash Salad with Maple Tahini Dressing

Next up, we have this flavorful Acorn Squash Salad with Maple Tahini Dressing. The combination of the creamy tahini dressing and the sweet and earthy acorn squash creates a truly irresistible flavor profile. Plus, the maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness that takes this salad to the next level!

Ingredients:

• 1 small acorn squash, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups arugula
• ½ cup pomegranate seeds
• ¼ cup crumbled goat cheese
• For the dressing:
• 2 tablespoons tahini
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons water
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the sliced acorn squash on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, maple syrup, lemon juice, water, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
3. In a large serving bowl, arrange the arugula. Top with the roasted acorn squash slices, pomegranate seeds, and crumbled goat cheese.
4. Drizzle the salad with the maple tahini dressing and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately and savor the delightful flavors!

Preparation time: 40 minutes

This Acorn Squash Salad with Maple Tahini Dressing is a true crowd-pleaser. The creamy and slightly sweet dressing pairs beautifully with the savory roasted acorn squash and the tangy pomegranate seeds. The addition of the crumbled goat cheese adds a lovely creamy texture to the salad.

There you have it, y’all! Two delicious acorn squash salad recipes that are perfect for fall gatherings or a simple weekday meal. Treat your taste buds with the sweet and savory flavors of these salads, and enjoy the delightful textures that make each bite truly satisfying. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your family and friends with these amazing dishes!