This holiday season, if you’re in need of a healthy side dish to accompany a traditional holiday feast, look no further. Included in this winter-themed salad: mixed baby greens, kale, roasted butternut squash, walnuts, pumpkin seeds and golden raisins. Lightly dressed with honey-sage vinaigrette,  it could even serve as a stand alone meal.

Winter Salad With Honey Sage Vinaigrette
Serves 4-6
A great way to use up leftover butternut squash!

Vinaigrette:
Whisk together the following:

4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or pear infused balsamic vinegar)
2 tbsp unpasteurized honey
pinch of dried sage
salt & pepper, to taste

I make the vinaigrette ahead of time, allowing the flavours a chance to meld. 

Winter Salad:

1 small-medium sized butternut squash, cubed and roasted in olive oil, salt & pepper. Allow the squash to cool completely before adding it to the salad.
6 packed cups mixed baby greens
4 stalks kale, stems removed and chopped
1/4 cup golden raisins (or dried cranberries- or both)
1/4 cup walnut pieces
2 tbsp pumpkin seeds
Optional: crumbled soft goat cheese (cranberry or fig goat cheese would be great!)

Combine the ingredients in a large bowl, and toss with the honey-sage vinaigrette.

Are you bringing any ‘healthy’ contributions to this years holiday celebrations?
Favorite seasonal winter food or ingredient?