Smoky-Maple Delicata Squash Pomegranate Kale Salad
Are you searching for a holiday dish that’s festive, nourishing, and guaranteed to impress? Every year, my clients ask for recipes that strike the perfect balance between indulgence and health, especially during the holiday season. This Smoky-Maple Delicata Squash Pomegranate Kale Salad is a crowd-pleaser that delivers on flavor, nutrition, and seasonal charm.
It’s packed with colorful, wholesome ingredients like roasted delicata squash, massaged kale, pomegranate arils, and quinoa. Whether you're hosting or bringing a dish to share, this salad is sure to win over even the kale skeptics at the table. Plus, it’s as beautiful as it is delicious—a true centerpiece for your holiday table!
Why This Salad Will Be Your Holiday Hero
Festive and Seasonal: The vibrant colors and seasonal flavors make this salad a showstopper. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy dinners at home.
Plant-Based Power: Packed with fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats, this salad supports balanced hormones and optimal metabolic health—something we all need during the holidays.
Simple, Yet Sophisticated: With just a few key steps (massaging kale, roasting squash), you’ll create a dish that tastes as good as it looks.
The Nutritional Stars
This salad isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with health benefits:
Delicata Squash: A great source of beta-carotene and potassium, delicata squash supports healthy skin, immunity, and heart health.
Kale: This nutrient-dense green is rich in calcium, iron, and vitamins A, C, and K, supporting strong bones and glowing skin.
Pomegranate Arils: These jewel-like seeds are high in antioxidants, particularly polyphenols, which combat inflammation and support hormone health.
Quinoa: A complete plant-based protein, quinoa helps balance blood sugar and keeps you feeling full and energized.
Smoky-Maple Delicata Squash Pomegranate Kale Salad
(Makes 4 Servings)
Salad Ingredients:
1 large bunch kale, destemmed and torn into bite-size pieces (~6-8 cups)
1 delicata squash, halved lengthwise, deseeded, and cut into half-moons
1 cup cooked quinoa (cooked in vegetable broth for extra flavor)
4 ounces vegan feta cheese, optional (I recommend Follow Your Heart brand)
Arils from 1 pomegranate (~1 cup)
1 TBSP olive oil
1/2 tsp chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Dressing Ingredients:
2 TBSP olive oil
2 TBSP apple cider vinegar
1-2 TBSP pure maple syrup (adjust to your preference)
1 garlic clove, minced or pressed
1/4 tsp chili powder
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
pinch of salt and pepper
Directions:
Roast the Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Toss the delicata squash with olive oil, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for about 20 minutes, or until golden and tender. Set aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the Dressing: In a mason jar, combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Shake until emulsified or whisk together in a bowl.
Massage the Kale: Place kale in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with half the dressing and gently massage for 1-2 minutes until the leaves soften and their bitterness mellows.
Assemble the Salad: Top the massaged kale with roasted squash, cooked quinoa, pomegranate arils, and vegan feta.
Serve: Drizzle the remaining dressing over the salad just before serving.
Pro Tips for Perfect Holiday Flair
Adjust the Sweetness: For everyday meals, 1 tbsp of maple syrup in the dressing adds a subtle sweetness. For holiday gatherings, bump it up to 2 tbsp for a slightly sweeter, more festive flavor.
Make Ahead: Roast the squash, cook the quinoa, and prepare the dressing ahead of time to make assembly a breeze.
Customize It: Add toasted pecans or walnuts for extra crunch, or swap pomegranate seeds for dried cranberries if that’s what you have on hand.
A Salad That Celebrates the Season
Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests at a holiday party, this salad is guaranteed to become a seasonal favorite. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your creations—tag me on Instagram @sproutintowellness!
