Fall Salad with Maple-Lime Dressing Ingredients: Roasted Butternut Squash: 1 lb butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed into 1-inch cubes 1 tablespoon olive oil Salt and pepper, to taste Salad Dressing: 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard 1/4 cup maple syrup Juice of 1 small lime, freshly squeezed Salad Ingredients: 8 oz bow tie pasta 1 cup pumpkin seeds, toasted 8 oz baby spinach 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled 1/2 cup dried cranberries Instructions: Roast the Butternut Squash: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On the baking sheet, toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread squash in a single layer without overcrowding and roast for 20-30 minutes, until softened and golden. Prepare the Salad Dressing: In a mason jar, combine olive oil, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and lime juice. Whisk well with a fork until emulsified. Adjust lime juice to taste if desired. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Assemble the Salad: In a large serving bowl, combine roasted butternut squash, cooked pasta, toasted pumpkin seeds, baby spinach, crumbled goat cheese, and dried cranberries. Drizzle with the maple-lime dressing, adding just enough to coat the salad (you may not need to use all the dressing). Toss to combine, and top with fresh thyme leaves for garnish, if desired. Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes Calories: 350 kcal | Servings: 6 servings This Fall Salad with Maple-Lime Dressing is the ultimate seasonal dish, bringing together comforting flavors and textures perfect for autumn. Roasted butternut squash adds a mellow sweetness that pairs beautifully with fresh spinach, creamy goat cheese, and the tangy-sweet crunch of pumpkin seeds. The bow tie pasta makes it filling, while dried cranberries lend a hint of tartness for balance. Ideal for cozy dinners or festive gatherings, this salad is dressed in a maple-lime vinaigrette that adds a light, zesty finish to every bite. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, this salad is not only nutritious but also a delight to the senses, making it a true highlight of any fall menu.
