Roasted Root Vegetable and Kale Salad with Mapledijon Dressing
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a salad that actually tastes good in winter? Honestly, winter salads don't have to be sad. This recipe for Roasted Root Vegetable and Kale Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing is packed with flavour.
It brings a little sunshine to those dark evenings.
Brief Overview
Root vegetables have been a staple in many cultures for centuries. This vegan winter salad is an easy way to enjoy them.
It takes under an hour to make, serves 4 people, and is great as a starter or a light main.
Main Benefits
This salad isn't just tasty. It's also good for you. Kale is packed with vitamins. The perfect occasion to enjoy this easy winter salad ? Anytime you want a bit of comfort food that won't weigh you down! What makes it special is the combination of sweet and savoury.
Ready for the ingredients?
Deliciously Earthy: Meet Your Ingredients
The Root of the Matter
Okay, let's talk veggies. We're using 1 lb (450g) of mixed root vegetables. Think parsnips, carrots, and beets. Chop them into 1 inch (2.
5 cm) pieces. Next, you will need 2 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp sea salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
A sprig of rosemary (chopped) and 2 minced garlic cloves add a nice touch.
Kale Yeah!
Now for the greens. Grab 6 oz (170g) of kale. Remove the stems and roughly chop the leaves. A little massage with olive oil later helps it get tender.
We are also going to add 1/4 cup (30g) of dried cranberries and 1/4 cup (35g) of toasted pecans or walnuts.
If you're feeling fancy, 2 oz (55g) of crumbled goat cheese is brill. Omit it for a vegan winter salad .
Dressing on the Side (But Not Really)
The dressing is where the magic happens. You'll need 3 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp real maple syrup, and 1 tbsp Dijon mustard.
Apple cider vinegar adds a tangy twist. Finish it off with 1/4 tsp sea salt and 1/8 tsp black pepper.
Let's Talk Ingredients & Kit for this Cracking Winter Salad
Okay, so let's get down to brass tacks. We are making a winter root vegetable salad . It's all about using what's in season, yeah? Think cozy vibes and vibrant colours.
Forget limp lettuce, we are going robust, flavourful and healthy! Honestly, winter salads are the best way to brighten up a gloomy day.
The Stars of the Show: Root Veggies
- 450g (1 lb) mixed root vegetables: parsnips, carrots and beets. Dice these into 2.5cm (1 inch) pieces.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Use a good quality one, it makes a difference.
- 1/2 tsp sea salt: Flaky sea salt is chef's kiss .
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Freshly ground is always better.
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary: Finely chopped, gives a lovely earthy aroma. Totally optional, but I think it works.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced. Don’t be shy, it adds a punch.
Quality indicators? For root veggies, look for firm, unblemished ones. If the beets feel squishy, leave them be.
Salad Bits & Bobs
- 170g (6 oz) kale: Remove the tough stems and chop it roughly.
- 30g (1/4 cup) dried cranberries: They add a sweet, chewy surprise.
- 35g (1/4 cup) toasted pecans or walnuts: Roughly chopped. Toasting them brings out the nutty flavour.
- 55g (2 oz) crumbled goat cheese: This is optional. I love the tang, but you can leave it out for a vegan winter salad.
Seasoning Sensations: The Maple Dijon Dressing
For the dressing:
- 3 tbsp olive oil.
- 2 tbsp maple syrup.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard.
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar.
- 1/4 tsp sea salt.
- 1/8 tsp black pepper.
Maple and dijon are a match made in heaven. It makes it a very special roasted root vegetable salad . It's the perfect mix of sweet and tangy.
Sub honey for maple syrup if you must. Lemon juice can replace apple cider vinegar.
Kit You'll Need
Just the basics here, no fancy gear.
- Large baking sheet: For roasting the veggies.
- Parchment paper: Optional. Makes cleanup a doddle.
- Large bowl: To toss everything together.
- Whisk: For the dressing. A fork works in a pinch.
There you have it! No special equipment needed, so you can whip up this easy winter salad tonight. Just grab your ingredients, and let's get cooking.
This healthy winter salad recipe will be a game changer in those cold days!
Cooking Method: Roasting Root Vegetables for the Ultimate Winter Salad
Honestly, who says salads are just for summer? I’m here to tell you winter salads can be just as amazing, especially when they involve roasted root vegetables .
The sweetness really comes out when they are roasted. Oh my gosh, it is so tasty! Roasting brings out a depth of flavour you just can't get any other way.
Let's talk about the key to making killer winter root vegetable salad .
Prep Steps: Setting the Stage for Roasting Greatness
First, mise en place , as the posh chefs say. Dice 1 lb of root vegetables like parsnips, carrots, and beets into 1 inch pieces.
Roughly chop 6 oz of kale, removing those tough stems. Mince 2 cloves of garlic and chop up a sprig of rosemary.
Time saving tip: Do this while the oven preheats to 400° F ( 200° C) . Organised prep means smooth sailing. Seriously, this little tip makes a huge difference.
step-by-step: Roasting to Perfection
- Toss your diced root vegetables with 2 tbsp olive oil, 0.5 tsp salt, 0.25 tsp pepper, the rosemary, and garlic.
- Spread 'em in a single layer on a baking sheet. Don't overcrowd! Use parchment paper for easy clean-up.
- Roast for 30- 35 minutes , flipping halfway, until tender and slightly caramelized. The edges should have a slight crisp.
- While the veggies roast, massage the kale with 1 tbsp olive oil for 2- 3 minutes until it softens. This makes it less bitter and more palatable. Seriously, don’t skip this step!
- Assemble your roasted root vegetable salad .
Pro Tips for Roasting Success
Want to take your roasting game to the next level? Don't roast them on top of each other. Overcrowding steams, not roasts.
Common mistake: Not roasting long enough. You want tender vegetables, not crunchy ones. Test with a fork.
My favourite easy winter salad : Combine the roasted veg and massaged kale with 0.25 cup dried cranberries and 0.
25 cup toasted pecans. Drizzle with a maple dijon dressing . Add 2 oz crumbled goat cheese (if you're not vegan!) for a bit of creamy tang.
A vegan winter salad is just as easy, leave out the goat cheese. A winter salad with goat cheese takes it to another level, if you ask me.
Serving the best seasonal winter salads and remembering these tips, it will make you want to keep coming back. You know? Enjoy those healthy winter salad recipes !
Recipe Notes for Your Epic Winter Salad
Right then, let's talk about those little extras that'll make your winter salad sing . You know? The bits that take it from "meh" to "Oh my gosh, can I have seconds?" We're talking simple, achievable deliciousness!
Plating Like a Pro: Serving Suggestions
Honestly, presentation matters. For this roasted root vegetable salad , think rustic chic. A big, slightly chipped bowl? Perfect! Toss everything together and then artfully arrange a few extra roasted beets on top.
Makes it look like you've really made an effort. A few sprigs of fresh herbs won't hurt either. This easy winter salad looks great alongside a crusty baguette.
Think about a nice glass of chilled crisp apple cider to wash it all down. Yum!
Storage Sorted: Keeping it Fresh
Okay, so you've made a huge batch of this healthy winter salad recipe ? No worries! The roasted veggies will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days .
Just store them separately from the dressing, otherwise, everything will get a bit soggy.
Freezing? Hmmm, not really recommended for the whole salad. But you can freeze the roasted root vegetables alone. This would be the basis for another winter salads later on.
They are good for a month in the freezer. Just let them cool completely before popping them in a freezer bag.
For reheating, you can pop them in the oven for 10- 15 minutes at 350° F .
Remix It: Variations and Swaps
Fancy a bit of a twist? Here are my favourite ways to play around with this vegan winter salad
Got a sweet tooth? Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze to the maple dijon dressing . It brings the sweetness and savory flavors together.
Watching the calories? Skip the nuts and use pumpkin seeds instead. Or try a kale salad winter version by adding chopped apple for sweetness.
Nutrition Nuggets: Fueling Your Body
Let's face it, we all like to know what we're putting into our bodies, right? This winter salad with goat cheese and winter root vegetable salad is packed with goodness.
You're getting a good dose of fiber from the vegetables and kale. The nuts give you healthy fats, while the goat cheese (if you're using it) adds protein.
The Vitamin A and C content is high! Think of it as a bowl of winter sunshine!
So there you have it! Everything you need to make this seasonal winter salads your own. Don't be afraid to experiment, have fun, and most importantly, enjoy! Now get in that kitchen and start creating!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this winter salad ahead of time?
You certainly can, bits of it anyway! Roasting the vegetables and making the dressing can be done a day or two in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge. Hold off on dressing the kale and assembling the salad until just before serving to prevent it from getting soggy. No one wants a soggy salad!
What are some good substitutions for the goat cheese in this winter salads recipe?
No worries if you're not a fan of goat cheese, or are catering for vegans! For a dairy-free alternative, consider adding some toasted nuts or seeds for a bit of crunch and healthy fats. You could also try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavour or even some marinated tofu for a more substantial protein boost.
There's a right proper substitute out there for everyone!
How long will this winter salad keep in the fridge?
Once assembled and dressed, this salad is best eaten within a day or so. The kale can get a bit soft if it sits in the dressing for too long. Undressed, the roasted vegetables and massaged kale will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days in separate containers. Think of it like a good cuppa, best enjoyed fresh!
I don't have maple syrup. What else can I use for the dressing in my winter salads?
Right, running low on maple syrup can happen! Honey is a great substitute, though it will slightly alter the flavour profile. You could also use agave nectar or even a brown sugar syrup in a pinch.
Just remember, the real stuff adds a unique richness, so try to grab some next time you're at the shops - it's worth it, honest!
Is there a way to make this winter salad even more filling?
Absolutely, you could add some cooked grains like quinoa or farro for extra fibre and protein. Roasted chickpeas or lentils would also be lovely additions, providing both texture and a nutritional boost. You could even toss in some shredded leftover chicken or turkey for a more substantial meal.
It's your salad, make it a masterpiece!
Roasted Root Vegetable And Kale Salad With Maple
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 350 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 5g |
