Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 5 oz mixed salad greens
- 1/2 cup roasted butternut squash, cubed
- 1/2 cup sliced green apple
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced radish
- 1/4 cup chopped candied pecans
- 4 strips bacon, cooked and sliced
Maple Mustard Vinaigrette
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- 2 tbsp whole grain Dijon mustard
- 1 1/2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp salt (plus more to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Salad: In a large serving bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, roasted butternut squash cubes, sliced green apples, crumbled feta cheese, thinly sliced radishes, chopped candied pecans, and cooked sliced bacon strips. Toss gently to begin mixing the ingredients.
- Make the Vinaigrette: Add the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, garlic cloves, whole grain Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and freshly ground black pepper into a high-powered blender or food processor. Blend or pulse until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and emulsified.
- Toss and Serve: Drizzle the freshly made maple mustard vinaigrette generously over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Toss thoroughly to ensure every component is coated with the dressing. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately to enjoy the salad at its freshest.
Notes
- Roast the butternut squash in advance by tossing cubes with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, then baking at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until tender.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the bacon or replace with crispy roasted chickpeas.
- Use fresh lemon juice for a bright, tangy flavor in the vinaigrette.
- Store leftover vinaigrette in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- To candy the pecans: toast pecans lightly and toss them with a mixture of maple syrup and a pinch of salt, then let them cool and harden before chopping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
