Butternut Squash, Pomegranate, and Arugula Salad

On a recent Fall day while settling into a sweater and boots, I had a craving for a dish that showcases the lovely Fall produce that is filling the markets. I played around with different combinations in my mind and came up with this salad.

I'm really like this salad because it has a great interplay of flavors and textures. The gorgeous colors of the butternut squash and pomegranate make this salad festive enough to serve for a holiday party. Best of all, if you roast the squash ahead of time, the dish comes together in minutes.

Butternut Squash, Pomegranate, and Arugula Salad

Recipe type: salad

Author: Dana @ FoodieGoesHealthy.com

Prep time: 15 mins

Cook time: 20 mins

Total time: 35 mins

Serves: 16 as side dish

The Fall produce in this salad pairs well with the citrus dressing. I adapted the dressing from a recipe my sister created. This recipe is perfect for a Thanksgiving, Hanukah or Christmas dinner. Note that the quantities in the recipe are scaled for a holiday party: serves 16 as a side dish. The recipe can be scaled up or down depending on the size of your crowd.

Ingredients:

Salad:

2 pounds butternut squash cut in ½ inch cubes
1 tablespoon grapeseed oil
A few pinches of salt
2 bags arugula (7 ounces each)
¾ cup pecans, chopped and toasted
1 box Trader Joe's pomegranate seeds (or seeds from 1 pomegranate)
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
15 dates, sliced into small chunks (optional)
Dressing below

Dressing:

¾ cup (6 ounces) Trader Joe's Muscrat Citrus Champagne Vinegar
⅓ cup grapeseed oil
1 tablespoon orange juice
2 teaspoons minced shallot
⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
Several grinds freshly cracked black pepper

Instructions:

To roast the squash:

Roast squash in a 450 degree oven in one layer on a rimmed baking sheet for 18 minutes or until the bottoms of the squash are lightly golden brown and squash is soft. Put squash under broiler for 1-2 minutes until the tops of the squash are flecked with brown. Set aside and let cool. The squash can be roasted ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to use.

To make the dressing:

Put all the ingredients into a jar with a tight-fitting lid and shake well. Refrigerate until used.

Assemble the salad:

Place arugula in a large flat bowl. Sprinkle the pecans, dates (optional), butternut squash, pomegranate seeds, and cheese on top. Add most of the dressing and toss. Taste and add more dressing if desired. Serve immediately.