December 11, 2023

Escape the winter blues with a burst of vibrant flavors in our Winter Rainbow Panzanella Salad. Say goodbye to bland salads and hello to a medley of roasted beets, maple-glazed squash, and a zesty grapefruit vinaigrette. This is not just a salad; it’s a celebration of winter’s best. Join us on a journey where every bite is a discovery, and each ingredient paints a picture of seasonal joy. Transform your winter dining into a vibrant affair with this colorful, flavorful sensation.

Ingredients:

  • 2 medium red beets, tops removed, scrubbed
  • 1 acorn squash
  • 1/2 c. plus 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
  • 3 tbsp. pure maple syrup, divided
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 8 oz. sourdough bread, cut or torn into 1″ cubes
  • 1/2 c. grapefruit juice
  • 1 clove garlic, grated
  • 1 tbsp. chopped fresh thyme
  • 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
  • 1 scallion, green and white parts separated, finely chopped
  • 1 c. fresh parsley leaves
  • 1 c. pomegranate seeds
  • 1 c. large red grapefruit
  • 8 oz. blue cheese, crumbled

Instructions:

Step 1: Roasting Beets

Arrange racks in the oven, preheat to 400°. Wrap beets in foil, roast until tender. Peel and cut into 3/4″ pieces.

Step 2: Maple-Glazed Squash

Slice acorn squash, toss with oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Roast until tender, then let cool.

Step 3: Sourdough Croutons

Toss bread with oil, salt, and pepper. Bake until golden brown and crisp.

Step 4: Grapefruit Vinaigrette

Whisk grapefruit juice, garlic, thyme, mustard, scallion parts, salt, and syrup. Slowly whisk in oil.

Step 5: Assembling the Salad

Toss squash, croutons, parsley, pomegranate seeds, scallion parts, and dressing. In a separate bowl, toss beets with dressing.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Trim and peel grapefruit, slice into segments. Transfer the salad to a platter, top with beets, blue cheese, and grapefruit segments. Serve with remaining dressing.

Nutrition Information:

Calories3373
Fat210 g
Saturated fat63 g
Calcium1775 mg
Iron
21 mg
Fiber
32 g
Protein88 g

Benefits of Winter Rainbow Panzanella Salad:

Nutrient-Rich Ingredients:
  • Beets offer folate, potassium, and vitamin C.
  • Acorn squash provides vitamins A and C.
Digestive Health:
  • Fiber from beets, squash, and sourdough croutons supports healthy digestion.
Heart-Healthy Olive Oil:
  • Extra-virgin olive oil in the vinaigrette contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
Antioxidant Boost:
  • Pomegranate seeds and grapefruit segments are rich in antioxidants.
Immune Support:
  • Grapefruit vinaigrette adds vitamin C for immune system support.
Satiety from Sourdough Croutons:
  • Sourdough croutons offer a satisfying crunch and complex carbohydrates.
Bone Health:
  • Blue cheese contributes calcium and phosphorus for bone strength.
Versatile Nutrient Intake:
  • Diverse ingredients provide a broad spectrum of nutrients for a balanced meal.
Weight Management:
  • Fiber-rich components support weight-conscious diets.
Mood-Boosting Freshness:
  • Visually appealing and flavorful, positively impacting mood.

By incorporating the Winter Rainbow Panzanella Salad into your diet, you not only treat your taste buds to a burst of flavors but also nourish your body with a variety of essential nutrients, promoting overall health and well-being.