Healthy Roasted Butternut Squash & Kale Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing

This Roasted Butternut Squash & Kale Salad combines the best of autumn’s harvest with nutrient-dense greens, perfect for a post-workout meal or a satisfying lunch. Packed with fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants, this recipe supports muscle recovery, boosts immunity, and keeps you energized through your day.

Roasted Butternut Squash Sald by EatWell

Ingredients (Serves 2–3)

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 4 cups kale, stems removed and chopped

• 1/2 cup dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds

• 1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds

• 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)

Maple Dijon Dressing

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 1 tbsp maple syrup

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes until tender and caramelized.

2. While the squash roasts, massage the chopped kale with a small pinch of salt for 2–3 minutes to soften.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.

4. Combine roasted squash, kale, dried cranberries (or pomegranate seeds), and pumpkin seeds in a large bowl. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently.

5. Top with crumbled feta or goat cheese if desired, and serve immediately.

Why This Recipe Works for Your Fitness Journey

Butternut squash provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, while kale offers anti-inflammatory compounds and essential vitamins. Pumpkin seeds add healthy fats and magnesium, crucial for muscle function and recovery. The natural sweetness of maple syrup and cranberries balances the flavours, making this salad both wholesome and delicious.

Support Local and Seasonal Wellness

All these ingredients are readily available at the Georgetown Farmer’s Market during fall. Shopping locally ensures peak freshness and supports the community, aligning perfectly with the Farm Girl Fitness philosophy of mindful, holistic wellness.

This recipe is adapted from the EatingWell Roasted Butternut Squash Salad with seasonal tweaks to fit the local harvest and Farm Girl Fitness nutrition values.