11 Apr 2025
Cook time 30 min
Prep time 15 min
Ingredients:
1 squash
3 tbsp olive oil
1 dash salt
1 dash black pepper
2 tbsp vinegar
1 tbsp mustard
1 tbsp honey
2 garlic cloves
1.50 cup kale
2 cups black beans
1/2 cup goat cheese
Prepare a delightful and nutritious Butternut Squash and Black Bean Kale Salad that bursts with flavors. This salad combines roasted butternut squash, black beans, fresh kale, and creamy goat cheese, all tossed in a vibrant and tangy dressing. Perfect for a healthy lunch or as a side dish for dinner, this recipe offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
Instructions:
1. Prepare and Roast the Butternut Squash:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the cubed butternut squash on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon (15g) of olive oil and season with a dash of salt and black pepper.
- Toss the squash to coat evenly and spread it out in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and nicely caramelized. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 2 tablespoons (25g) of olive oil, vinegar, mustard, honey, and minced garlic until well combined.
3. Prepare the Kale:
- Place the chopped kale in a large mixing bowl.
- Drizzle a small amount of the prepared dressing over the kale.
- Using your hands, massage the dressing into the kale for about 1-2 minutes. This helps to soften the fibers of the kale, making it more tender and flavorful.
4. Assemble the Salad:
- Add the roasted butternut squash and black beans to the bowl with the kale.
- Drizzle the remaining dressing over the salad ingredients.
- Toss everything together gently to ensure the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
5. Add the Finishing Touches:
- Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese over the top of the salad.
- Give the salad a final gentle toss to incorporate the goat cheese.
6. Serve:
- Transfer the salad to a serving dish or individual plates.
- Enjoy your delicious and nutritious Butternut Squash and Black Bean Kale Salad!
Tips:
- Ensure to cut the butternut squash into uniform pieces for even roasting.
- Massage the kale with a small amount of olive oil or the dressing to soften it before mixing it with the other ingredients.
- For extra flavor, consider roasting the garlic cloves along with the squash.
- You can make the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Feel free to personalize the salad by adding other ingredients like roasted nuts, seeds, or dried cranberries.
Your Butternut Squash and Black Bean Kale Salad is now ready to be enjoyed. The combination of hearty black beans, tender roasted squash, fresh kale, and tangy goat cheese, all enveloped in a flavorful dressing, makes this salad an enticing and nutritious meal. Serve it fresh and savor the delightful mix of flavors in every bite.