Pumpkin and Spinach Salad with Maple Dressing
This autumn-inspired Pumpkin and Spinach Salad with Maple Dressing combines the natural sweetness of roasted pumpkin with the freshness of baby spinach and a luscious maple vinaigrette. This dish balances sweet, savory, and nutty flavors, perfect for a light meal or as a stunning side salad for festive gatherings.
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach washed and patted dry
- 2 cups pumpkin peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil extra virgin for best flavor
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ⅓ cup pecans lightly toasted
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup feta cheese crumbled
For the Maple Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin
- 1 ½ tablespoons maple syrup pure maple syrup for best results
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Roast the Pumpkin: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced pumpkin with olive oil, salt, and black pepper, then spread evenly on a baking sheet. Roast for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and tender.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until emulsified.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the baby spinach, roasted pumpkin, toasted pecans, and dried cranberries.
- Dress and Serve: Drizzle the maple dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese before serving.
Notes
- For extra crunch, try adding roasted pumpkin seeds.
- If you prefer a milder cheese, goat cheese can be substituted for feta.
- To make this salad vegan, omit the cheese or replace it with a vegan alternative.
Nutrition
Calories: 272kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 3gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 8mgSodium: 577mgPotassium: 391mgFiber: 2gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 7094IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 98mgIron: 2mg
We'd love to know if you enjoyed this recipeRate this Recipe !
