Bourbon Maple Dijon Dressing

This Bourbon Maple Dijon dressing adds a rich and tangy flavor to your fall salads. Perfectly complementing roasted butternut squash, baby spinach, toasted pecans, and goat cheese, it enhances the seasonal ingredients beautifully.

The dressing is simple to prepare and can be made in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together. Drizzle it generously over your salad for a delightful taste experience.

Seasonal Ingredients Come Together

This rustic fall salad showcases the vibrant flavors of the season.

Roasted butternut squash offers a sweet and nutty base, perfectly complemented by the freshness of baby spinach.

The addition of toasted pecans adds a delightful crunch, while crumbled goat cheese introduces a creamy texture that balances the dish beautifully.

Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a harmonious blend that celebrates autumn’s bounty.

The warm tones of the squash and the earthy greens of the spinach create a visually appealing dish that invites you to indulge.

Crafting the Bourbon Maple Dijon Dressing

The Bourbon Maple Dijon dressing is the star of this salad, infusing it with a rich, tangy flavor.

Combining Dijon mustard, maple syrup, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder creates a dressing that is both sweet and savory.

This dressing can be prepared ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.

Drizzling it generously over the salad enhances each bite, making it a memorable addition to any fall gathering.

Preparation Made Simple

Preparing this salad is straightforward and quick.

Start by roasting the butternut squash until tender and caramelized, which brings out its natural sweetness.

While the squash is roasting, you can whisk together the dressing, ensuring it’s ready to elevate your salad.

Once the squash is done, simply combine it with the spinach, pecans, and goat cheese in a large bowl.

The final touch is the dressing, which ties all the flavors together.

Perfect for Gatherings

This salad serves four and is ideal for autumn gatherings, whether it’s a cozy dinner or a festive celebration.

Its combination of flavors and textures makes it a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.

Pair it with your favorite main dishes or serve it as a standalone meal for a light yet satisfying option.

Visual Appeal and Presentation

Presentation plays a key role in making this salad irresistible.

The warm autumn lighting enhances the colors of the ingredients, making the dish look even more inviting.

A small glass jar of the Bourbon Maple Dijon dressing, with visible mustard seeds, adds an attractive touch to the table setting.

Complementing the salad with a maple leaf and a shot glass of bourbon creates a rustic vibe that perfectly captures the essence of fall.

Nutrition and Enjoyment

Not only is this salad delicious, but it also offers a nutritious option for those looking to enjoy seasonal produce.

With approximately 320 calories per serving, it provides a well-rounded meal with healthy fats from the pecans and protein from the goat cheese.

Enjoy this salad as part of a balanced diet, and savor the flavors of fall with every bite.

Rustic Fall Salad with Bourbon Maple Dijon Dressing

This salad features roasted butternut squash paired with fresh baby spinach, crunchy toasted pecans, and creamy goat cheese, all brought together with a glossy Bourbon Maple Dijon dressing. It serves 4 and is perfect for autumn gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 small butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 4 cups baby spinach
• 1/2 cup toasted pecans
• 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

1. Roast the Squash: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
2. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, maple syrup, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder until smooth.
3. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the roasted butternut squash, baby spinach, toasted pecans, and crumbled goat cheese.
4. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the Bourbon Maple Dijon dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. Serve: Divide the salad among plates and enjoy immediately.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: 320kcal
• Fat: 22g
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 28g