1smallButternut SquashAbout 3 cups, cut into 1/2 inch cubes
4tablespoonsOlive Oil
1cupQuinoa
2cupsChicken StockOr vegetable stock
1/2cupDried Cranberries
1/3cupChopped Italian Parsley
1/3cupThinly Sliced Scallions
1/2cupRoasted Salted Pumpkin Seeds
1/2cupFeta Cheese
1/2cupFresh Pomegranate Seeds
Salt and Pepper
Pomegranate Molasses
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place the butternut squash on the baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sprinkle with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Heat the remaining olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the quinoa to the pan and toast for 3-4 minutes, stirring often. Stir in the chicken or vegetable stock and a generous pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil. Turn down the heat to low and cover the pan; cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa has absorbed all of the liquid. Take the pan off the heat and allow the quinoa to rest for 5 minutes covered. Fluff with a fork.
Transfer the quinoa to a large serving bowl. Gently fold in butternut squash, cranberries, parsley, scallions, pumpkin seeds, feta cheese, and pomegranate seeds. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle the mixture with the pomegranate molasses.
Notes
If you can’t find pomegranate molasses at your local grocery store, you can substitute balsamic glaze.
If you’re not planning on serving the salad immediately, refrain from adding the molasses and transfer the mixture to an airtight container. The salad will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 2 days.