Imagine a vibrant dish that combines the earthy sweetness of roasted butternut squash, the robust nutrition of kale, and the nutty texture of farro, all brought together with a tantalizing zaatar dressing that will transport your taste buds straight to the bustling markets of the Middle East. This isn't just a salad – it's a culinary adventure that promises to elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary, packed with bold flavors and wholesome ingredients that will make you fall in love with healthy eating.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 1 cup farro, cooked
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons zaatar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the butternut squash by peeling, removing seeds, and cutting into 1-inch uniform cubes. Ensure pieces are roughly the same size for even roasting.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss butternut squash cubes with 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon zaatar, salt, and pepper. Spread the seasoned squash evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast the butternut squash in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, turning once halfway through, until edges are golden brown and squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
- While squash is roasting, cook farro according to package instructions. Typically, this involves simmering in salted water for about 20-25 minutes until tender but still chewy.
- Wash kale thoroughly and remove tough stems. Chop into bite-sized pieces and massage with remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to soften leaves.
- Once farro is cooked, drain and let cool slightly. Combine farro, roasted butternut squash, and massaged kale in a large serving bowl.
- Create the zaatar dressing by mixing remaining zaatar with a small amount of olive oil to create a loose, drizzling consistency.
- Drizzle zaatar dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine all ingredients.
- Top the salad with crumbled feta cheese just before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips
- Uniform Cutting: When preparing butternut squash, ensure all cubes are roughly the same size to guarantee even roasting and consistent caramelization.
- Kale Massage Technique: Massaging kale with olive oil helps break down the tough fibers, making it more tender and easier to digest while enhancing its flavor absorption.
- Zaatar Magic: For the most authentic flavor, use freshly ground zaatar spice blend. If possible, toast it lightly before mixing with olive oil to release its aromatic oils.
- Farro Perfection: Rinse farro before cooking to remove any excess starch, and be careful not to overcook – it should remain slightly chewy.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This salad can be prepared in advance and tastes even better as the flavors meld together. Store components separately and combine just before serving to maintain optimal texture.
- Temperature Tip: While the salad is delicious warm, it's equally delightful at room temperature, making it perfect for meal prep or picnics.
- Customization Options: Feel free to add toasted pine nuts or swap feta for goat cheese to personalize this versatile recipe to your taste preferences.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
