This Hot Honey Harvest Salad is a perfect blend of warm, sweet, and savory flavors. It features a mix of roasted vegetables, fresh greens, and a drizzle of hot honey for a spicy-sweet kick. Topped with crispy bacon and creamy goat cheese, this salad is hearty enough to be a meal on its own or a side dish.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- For the Salad:
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, cubed
- 1 apple (such as Fuji or Honeycrisp), thinly sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or baby kale)
- 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (or feta, if preferred)
- 1/4 cup roasted pecans or walnuts
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Hot Honey Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons hot honey (or regular honey mixed with chili flakes to taste)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Roast the Vegetables:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the cubed butternut squash and sliced red onion with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and lightly caramelized. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
- Prepare the Hot Honey Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the hot honey, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste. If you prefer a spicier dressing, add more chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, roasted butternut squash, and red onion. Add the sliced apple, crumbled goat cheese, and roasted pecans or walnuts.
- Drizzle the hot honey dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Top the Salad:
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top of the salad for added crunch and savory flavor.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately while the squash is still warm for the best flavor and texture.
Tips
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken or turkey to the salad.
- Customize Veggies: Feel free to add other roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, or carrots to the salad.
- Make Ahead: Roast the vegetables and prepare the dressing in advance. Store them separately and assemble the salad just before serving.
Enjoy this vibrant, flavor-packed Hot Honey Harvest Salad as a delicious fall-inspired dish!