Description
A hearty, colorful winter twist on the classic Cobb salad featuring seasonal produce like roasted butternut squash, crisp mixed greens, protein-rich chicken and eggs, tangy cheese, crunchy nuts, and a bright homemade vinaigrette that perfectly balances savory and sweet flavors.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 6 cups mixed greens (spinach, kale, or arugula)
- 1 cup roasted butternut squash cubes
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta or blue cheese
- 1/2 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1/4 cup sliced red onion
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Roasted Squash: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and cube butternut squash, toss with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for about 20 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized. Allow to cool.
- Arrange Greens: In a large bowl or platter, spread out 6 cups of mixed greens evenly as the base of the salad.
- Add Toppings: Neatly arrange the roasted squash cubes, diced cooked chicken, sliced hard-boiled eggs, pomegranate seeds, crumbled cheese, avocado slices, chopped nuts, and sliced red onion in separate rows or groups over the bed of greens.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey, and salt and pepper until emulsified and smooth.
- Serve: Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad just before serving or serve the dressing on the side for guests to add as desired.
Notes
- Roasted sweet potatoes may be used as a delicious alternative to butternut squash.
- Adding cooked, crispy bacon will enhance the richness and smoky flavor of the salad.
- Use gluten-free certified cheese if adhering strictly to gluten-free diets.
- Ensure chicken is fully cooked before adding to the salad.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Salad
- Method: Roasting, Assemble
- Cuisine: American
