Recipes

Delicata Squash Salad

I love delicata squash — so easy to prep because you don’t need to remove the peel. Winter squash is high in betacarotene, which the body converts to Vitamin A. This important antioxidant counteracts free radicals in our skin, preventing wrinkles and helping our skin stay youthful.

Serves 4 as a starter, or 2 as a light meal.

Ingredients

  • 2-4 delicata squash (about 1 1/2 pounds)
  • 1-2 tablespoons organic olive oil
  • 6 cups baby/mixed greens
  • 1/4 cup zante currants or chopped medjool dates
  • 1 cup unsalted, shelled pistachios
  • Lemon Thyme Vinaigrette (see link for recipe in Notes below)
  • Sea salt and pepper to tastes

Directions

  • Step 1

    Preheat the oven to 400°F. To prep the squash, scrub with a vegetable brush under running water. Then, split each squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds with a spoon or ice cream scoop.

  • Step 2

    Place the flat side of one of the squash down onto a cutting board and slice into ½ -inch rings — the best part about Delicata squash is that you can eat the skin!

  • Step 3

    Put the squash into a medium sized bowl and add the olive oil, salt and pepper. Use clean hands to toss the squash so each piece is coated. Transfer to a baking sheet (use parchment paper or a silpat for easy cleaning), then place in the oven for about 10 minutes.

  • Step 4

    After ten minutes, the squash should be nicely browned. Flip gently with a spatula and continue roasting for another 10-15 minutes. When the squash is done, both sides will be golden brown and creamy inside. Remove from the oven and set aside.

  • Step 5

    For the salad: Place greens into a large bowl. Pour a small amount of dressing — a tablespoon or so — over the greens and toss with tongs. The greens should be evenly coated, but not soggy. If the greens are still dry, add a little more dressing and toss again until the greens are evenly dressed.

  • Step 6

    To serve: divide the greens evenly onto plates. Divide the squash rings evenly and arrange on top of the greens. Garnish with pistachios and currants. Season with sea salt and pepper to taste. Serve with hard-boiled eggs (2 per serving) if desired.

Notes

Click here for Lemon Thyme Vinaigrette Recipe. 

Need some more ideas and recipes?

Just follow the link below, and you’ll get instant access to my How to Love Salad recipes: