Warm Roasted Pumpkin Puy Lentil Salad

This fresh and vibrant salad uses canned lentils, a pantry staple. The earthy flavors of warm roasted pumpkin and the nuttiness of Puy lentils pair perfectly with a tangy vinaigrette dressing. Packed with healthy ingredients, it is a filling and healthy choice. The roasted pumpkin provides a comforting warmth, while the Puy lentils add a hearty texture. Packed with plenty of vitamins and minerals, this salad is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Enjoy this filling, low-fat dish that will effortlessly help you meet your daily requirement of five servings per day in a delicious way.

Ingredients

  • 1 kg butternut squash, roughly diced
  • 1½ tbsp olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, crushed
  • 2 tsp thyme leaves
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tsp whole grain mustard
  • 2 x 400g cans of Puy lentils in water
  • ½ sliced ​​red onion
  • 100g bag of spinach
  • 150 g cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 40g Cheshire cheese
  • 1-2 tbsp roasted pumpkin seeds

Preparation steps

  1. Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas 4.

  2. Toss the butternut squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil, garlic clove, thyme leaves and spices.

  3. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.

  4. Mix balsamic vinegar, ½ tbsp olive oil, whole grain mustard and 1-2 tbsp water.

  5. Drain the Puy lentils in the water and mix with the dressing, red onions, spinach and cherry tomatoes.

  6. Divide the lentils over four plates.

  7. Top with the pumpkin.

  8. Sprinkle Cheshire cheese and pumpkin seeds on top.

Nutritional Information

kcalfatsaturatescarbohydratesSugarfiberproteinSalt
304 10g 3g 41g 15g 13g 15g 0.35g

Equipment and tools

  • Knife
  • cutting board
  • sheet
  • mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Garlic press
  • measuring spoon
  • measuring cup
  • Serving bowl

Allergen information

This recipe contains the following allergens:

  • Garlic
  • Mustard
  • Cheese
  • Pumpkin seeds

Please be aware of these allergens if you or your guests have dietary restrictions or allergies.

Storage and leftovers

This warm roasted pumpkin and puy lentil salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the microwave or heat gently on the stove. Please note, however, that the salad is best enjoyed fresh to preserve its texture and taste.

If you have leftovers, you can also use them as filling for wraps or sandwiches for a delicious and healthy meal on the go.

Health Benefits of Warm Roasted Pumpkin and Puy Lentil Salad

When it comes to nutritious and filling meals, Warm Roasted Pumpkin Puy Lentil Salad is a dish that ticks all the boxes. Packed with healthy ingredients like butternut squash, Puy lentils, spinach, and cherry tomatoes, this salad not only offers a burst of flavor but also countless health benefits. Let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients and what makes this salad so nutritious:

Butternut squash:

The star of this salad, butternut squash, is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. It is rich in essential nutrients such as fiber, vitamin C, potassium and antioxidants that have positive effects on your overall health. The bright orange color of butternut squash indicates the presence of beta-carotene, a plant compound that is converted into vitamin A in the body and supports immune function.

Puy lentils:

Puy lentils are small, greenish-gray lentils that are full of protein, fiber and several essential minerals, adding a hearty touch to this salad. Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein and are therefore a valuable addition to vegetarian and vegan diets. They also ensure a consistent release of energy, ensure a longer-lasting feeling of satiety and support weight management.

Spinach:

Spinach, a green leafy vegetable, offers numerous health benefits. Rich in vitamins A, C and K as well as minerals like iron and calcium, spinach is a nutritional powerhouse. It is known for its role in promoting healthy vision, supporting the immune system and maintaining bone health. In addition, spinach contains antioxidants that protect the body from oxidative damage caused by free radicals.

Cherry tomatoes:

Cherry tomatoes not only add a touch of color and freshness to the salad, but also provide important nutrients. They are a great source of vitamin C, which is crucial for collagen production, wound healing and immune system boosting. Cherry tomatoes are also a good source of lycopene, an antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of certain cancers and promote heart health.

Cheshire cheese:

Adding Cheshire cheese to this salad not only enhances the flavor but also provides some valuable nutrients. In moderation, cheese can be a good source of calcium, protein and vitamin B12. However, due to its high saturated fat content, it is important to consume it in moderation.

Roasted pumpkin seeds:

Finally, the salad is garnished with roasted pumpkin seeds, which not only add a delicious crunch but also provide a number of nutritional benefits. Pumpkin seeds are rich in healthy fats, proteins, fiber and various minerals, including magnesium, zinc and iron. They’re also a great source of antioxidants and can support heart health and reduce inflammation.

In summary, warm roasted pumpkin and puy lentil salad is a nutritious and tasty dish that combines a variety of healthy ingredients. From the fiber-rich butternut squash and Puy lentils to the nutrient-dense spinach and cherry tomatoes, each component contributes to the salad’s overall health benefits. Incorporating this salad into your diet will allow you to enjoy a delicious meal while providing your body with essential nutrients.

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