Hello, I’m Elaina, the culinary enthusiast behind Flavour Food and Wine. Today, I’m excited to share with you a recipe that’s a celebration of autumn flavors – the Spiced Pumpkin Lentil and Goat Cheese Salad. This salad brings together the earthy sweetness of spiced pumpkin, the hearty texture of lentils, and the creamy tang of goat cheese. It’s a dish that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a healthy meal. So, let’s embark on this culinary adventure and explore the delightful combination of flavors in our Spiced Pumpkin Lentil and Goat Cheese Salad recipe.
Spiced Pumpkin Lentil and Goat Cheese Salad
Spiced Pumpkin Lentil and Goat Cheese Salad
Equipment
- 1 small bowl
- 1 oven
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup French green lentils*
- 6 cups 1-inch pieces peeled seeded sugar pumpkin or butternut squash from about one 2-pound whole pumpkin
- 3 tablespoons olive oil divided
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon hot smoked Spanish paprika**
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 4 cups baby arugula
- 1 cup soft goat cheese crumbled
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced mint leaves
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
Instructions
- Place lentils in small bowl.
- Cover with cold water and soak 10 minutes; drain.
- Cook lentils in boiling salted water until tender but firm, about 30 minutes.
- Drain lentils. Rinse under cold water, then drain.
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Place pumpkin in large bowl; toss with 2 tablespoons oil, cumin, paprika, and sea salt.
- Arrange pumpkin in single layer on baking sheet; roast 20 minutes.
- Turn pumpkin over.
- Roast until tender, 10 to 15 minutes. Cool.
- Combine lentils, pumpkin, and oil from baking sheet with arugula, half of goat cheese, mint, vinegar, and 1 tablespoon oil.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Divide among plates; sprinkle remaining goat cheese over.
Video
About Spiced Pumpkin Lentil and Goat Cheese Salad
The Spiced Pumpkin Lentil and Goat Cheese Salad is a celebration of autumn flavors. This salad brings together the earthy sweetness of spiced pumpkin, the hearty texture of lentils, and the creamy tang of goat cheese. Originating from the fusion of traditional fall ingredients with a modern culinary approach, this dish offers a unique blend of flavors and textures that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Cooking Tips
- Use fresh, ripe pumpkin for the best flavor and texture. Canned pumpkin can be used as a substitute, but the flavor may not be as rich.
- Cook the lentils until they are tender but still hold their shape. Overcooked lentils can become mushy and lose their texture.
- Crumble the goat cheese just before serving to maintain its freshness and creaminess.
- The pumpkin can be roasted in advance to save time. Just store it in the refrigerator and warm it up before assembling the salad.
- Adjust the amount of spices according to your taste. If you prefer a more spicy salad, feel free to add more.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the Spiced Pumpkin Lentil and Goat Cheese Salad as a main course or a side dish. It pairs well with roasted meats like chicken or turkey.
- For a vegetarian meal, serve it with a slice of crusty bread and a bowl of soup.
- Pair it with a glass of white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
- Top the salad with toasted pumpkin seeds for an extra crunch.
- For a vegan option, replace the goat cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or omit it altogether.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use other types of squash instead of pumpkin? Yes, you can substitute pumpkin with other types of squash like butternut squash or acorn squash.
- Can I use other types of lentils? Yes, you can use any type of lentils. However, keep in mind that different types of lentils have different cooking times and textures.
- Can I make this salad in advance? Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance. However, it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to maintain the freshness and texture of the ingredients.
- Can I add other ingredients to this salad? Absolutely! Feel free to add other ingredients like roasted vegetables, nuts, or dried fruits.
- Can I replace the goat cheese with another type of cheese? Yes, you can replace the goat cheese with other types of soft cheese like feta or blue cheese.
The Spiced Pumpkin Lentil and Goat Cheese Salad is a dish that truly celebrates the flavors of fall. Its combination of hearty lentils, sweet pumpkin, and tangy goat cheese creates a satisfying and nutritious meal. By following the provided cooking tips and serving suggestions, you can create a restaurant-quality salad right in your own kitchen. Remember, cooking is about creativity and personalization, so feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors. Enjoy the process and the delicious result!
