Description
A vibrant, hearty Roasted Beetroot & Pumpkin Salad featuring caramelized vegetables, fresh greens, lentils, feta, and a zesty citrus dressing.
Ingredients
Japanese pumpkin (about 600g), cubed – or substitute butternut squash
Fresh beetroot (2 medium), peeled and cubed
Olive oil (1 tbsp for roasting, plus 2 tbsp for dressing)
Baby spinach (4 cups, packed)
Red onion (1/2), thinly sliced
Lentils (1 can, rinsed and drained)
Feta cheese (1/2 cup), crumbled
Pumpkin seeds or pepitas (1/3 cup)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Citrus Dressing:
Fresh lemon juice (3 tbsp)
Fresh orange juice (3 tbsp)
Olive oil (2 tbsp)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
2. Cut pumpkin and beetroot into 3/4–1 inch cubes. Scoop out seeds if using a fresh pumpkin.
3. Spread cubed vegetables on the pan. Drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat. Arrange in a single layer.
4. Optional: Rinse and dry pumpkin seeds. Roast separately with oil and salt for 20–30 minutes until crisp.
5. Roast the vegetables for 30–35 minutes, turning once halfway through, until golden and fork-tender.
6. Make the dressing by shaking lemon juice, orange juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a jar until emulsified. Adjust to taste.
7. Place baby spinach in a large bowl. Add sliced red onion and rinsed lentils.
8. Add hot roasted vegetables on top of the spinach. Let sit for a minute or two to gently wilt the greens.
9. Sprinkle with crumbled feta and pumpkin seeds. Drizzle with most of the citrus dressing.
10. Toss gently with large spoons. Taste and add remaining dressing or extra seasoning if desired. Serve warm or chilled.
Notes
Use kabocha squash for the best texture, but butternut squash works well too.
For a vegan version, skip the feta or use a dairy-free alternative.
Roasting the pumpkin seeds adds bonus flavor and reduces waste.
This salad is delicious warm or cold and perfect for meal prep.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.