Quinoa butternut squash and kale salad –Are you ready to elevate your meal prep with a vibrant and nourishing dish? Allow us to introduce you to the Roasted Butternut Squash Quinoa & Kale Salad—a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will not only satisfy your taste buds but also add a burst of color to your plate. This salad is incredibly versatile; it makes for a wonderful side dish or a hearty main course! Let’s dive right in.
Roasted Butternut Squash Quinoa & Kale Salad
This delightful salad combines the sweetness of roasted butternut squash with protein-packed quinoa and nutrient-rich kale, making it a well-rounded dish sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 4 cups kale, stems removed and chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- Your favorite dressing (balsamic vinaigrette works wonderfully)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- On a baking sheet, toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it out in a single layer, then roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
- While the squash is roasting, cook the quinoa. In a medium pot, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth (or water). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
- In a large skillet, sauté the chopped kale over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes until wilted. You can add a splash of water or olive oil if needed.
- In a large bowl, combine the roasted butternut squash, cooked quinoa, wilted kale, dried cranberries, and chopped walnuts. If you’re using feta cheese, sprinkle it on top.
- Drizzle your favorite dressing over the salad, toss gently to combine, and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy this wholesome flavor-packed dish!
Give this Roasted Butternut Squash Quinoa & Kale Salad a try, and savor each delicious bite. It’s not just food; it’s a celebration of colors and nutritional goodness!
