I’m so excited to share this recipe as a preview to my upcoming book Fall For You, Simple Recipes for Thriving in Your Best Body, available for purchase on Amazon the week of November 9th!

It’s Fall! There’s a chill in the air and the leaves are on the ground… And we still want salad, let’s be real. Not just any salad though, we want earthy Fall goodness from our salad! My Fall Festival Salad is just that. Caramelized & creamy roasted delicata overtop a bed of peppery arugula, with gems of tart cranberry and nutty pecans, all drizzled with a Maple Tahini Vinaigrette. Perfect for any lunch or dinner on its own, or absolutely stunning as a side salad on your holiday table!

*Chef’s Notes:

1. Delicata squash has tender skin that can be eaten, so no need to peel!

2. Tahini consistency can vary, depending on the brand. Adding cold water to your dressing (in 1 Tbsp increments) will help you reach your desired consistency for a nice light dressing.

What You’ll Need…

For The Salad

• 1 box of baby arugula

• 1 delicata squash, sliced & roasted (with 1 Tbsp olive oil and about 1/4 tsp salt)

• 1/2 cup dried cranberries (dried cherries could be great too)

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

Maple Tahini Vinaigrette

• 3 Tbsp maple syrup

• 3 Tbsp tahini

• 3 Tbsp apple cider vinegar

• Cold water for thinning (as much as 1/4 cup)

• Plenty of salt & pepper to taste

What You’ll Do…

Preheat your oven to 425. Slice your delicata squash in half, lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, then slice into 1/2 inch thick half moons. Arrange in an even layer on a baking sheet and toss with olive oil & salt. Roast in your 425 oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping half way. Your squash should be tender and caramelized. Set squash aside. In a small bowl, whisk together dressing ingredients. If it needs thickening, add cold water in 1 Tbsp increments, until you’ve reached your desired consistency. Season to taste. Your salad is ready for assembly! Assemble your salad in your desired serving dish, arugula first, then delicata, then cranberries & pecans. When you’re ready to eat, drizzle Maple Tahini Dressing overtop and enjoy!

Serves 6 as a side salad.