Quinoa, Lentil and Maple-Roasted Squash Salad
Packed with roasted squash, crispy lentils and a light, flavourful maple Dijon dressing, this salad strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savoury. A nourishing dish, ideal for a weeknight lunch or a festive meal.
The ingredients
Roasted squash
- 1 squash, I used Sweet Dumpling for a sweeter taste; small; roughly cut
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp avocado oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Crispy lentils
- 1 lentils, 19 oz; 540 g can; drained and rinsed
- 1 tsp avocado oil
- 1 tbsp nutritional yeast
- ½ tsp paprika
Salad
- 2 cups quinoa, cooked
- 4 cups kale, chopped, stems removed and massaged with a bit of oil
- 1 carrot, large; grated
- ½ medium red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup pumpkin seeds
Maple Dijon dressing
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ lemon, juice
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp whole grain mustard
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
The method
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- In a large bowl, add the cut squash, oil and seasonings. Toss to coat evenly. Spread the squash out evenly on a large baking sheet. Set aside.
- Using a towel, pat the lentils dry to remove excess moisture. Place them on another baking sheet, add the oil and seasonings, then toss.
- Bake the squash and lentils in the centre of the oven for about 25 to 30 minutes.
- In a small jar, add the dressing ingredients. Close the lid and shake to combine well. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, add all the salad ingredients, the crispy lentils and the roasted squash. Pour in the dressing and mix with a wooden spoon to coat everything well.
My tips
Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Nutrition facts
Per serving, for reference only.
- 475Calories
- 20 gFat
- 53 gCarbs
- 11 gFibre
- 21 gProtein
Squash contains beta-carotene and other carotenoids, powerful antioxidants that protect the body from oxidative stress and support eye health.
Lentils are rich in soluble and insoluble fibre, supporting digestive health, regulating blood sugar and promoting heart health by reducing cholesterol.
Lentils have a low glycemic index, which helps stabilize blood sugar, ideal for people with diabetes or anyone looking to maintain steady energy levels.
Pumpkin seeds are one of the best plant-based sources of magnesium, a mineral essential for muscle and nerve function, energy production and bone health.
