Unleash the Flavors of Fall with This Super Easy 5 Ingredient Healthy Dinner Recipe!

Contributed by: The Hive Women, Overland Park

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As the leaves change and the air cools, we start to crave hearty meals that warm us up. Thankfully, you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to cook something delicious and nutritious. With just five simple ingredients, you can make a fantastic dinner that captures fall flavors.

Let’s embark on this culinary adventure as we whip up a wholesome, easy fall recipe that is not only sim to prepare but also delightful to your taste buds!

Why Fall Ingredients Shine

Fall is a sensory delight, bringing us a variety of produce like squashes, apples, and sweet potatoes. For example, did you know butternut squash is 81 calories per cup and is loaded with vitamins A and C? These seasonal ingredients are nutrient-rich and provide a filling, satisfying experience.

Incorporating local produce into your meals not only supports farmers but ensures you are enjoying fresh, flavorful ingredients. Check out your local farmer's market to find super fresh produce.

The Star of the Show: A 5-Ingredient Recipe

So, what is our fantastic five-ingredient, easy fall recipe? Drumroll, please! Introducing Roasted Butternut Squash and Chickpea Salad! This dish is packed with autumn goodness. Here’s what you will need:

• Butternut Squash: Naturally sweet and nutty, ideal as a base.

• Canned Chickpeas: A protein powerhouse, adding a wonderful texture.

• Olive Oil: Vital for roasting; enhances flavors and keeps everything moist.

• Spinach or Kale: Provides vibrant color and essential nutrients.

• Pumpkin Seeds: Adding a satisfying crunch and healthy fats.

  
  

Preparing Your Ingredients

Start by preparing your ingredients for the best results:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare the Butternut Squash: Halve the squash, remove the seeds, and cut into slices or dice into small cubes for even roasting.

3. Rinse and Drain Chickpeas: For canned chickpeas, rinse them well to cut down on sodium and improve flavor.

4. Prep Your Greens: Chop the spinach or kale, ensuring it’s clean and dry for optimal texture.

   
   

Close-up of roasted butternut squash ready for salad.

Roasting the Vegetables

In a large bowl, mix the diced butternut squash and chickpeas. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and toss to coat.

Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the squash is tender and golden brown.

Creating Your Salad Masterpiece

Once your veggies are roasted, it's time to create your salad!

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, fold in the roasted butternut squash, chickpeas, and greens.

2. Add Pumpkin Seeds: Generously sprinkle pumpkin seeds on top for added crunch.

3. Dress with Olive Oil: Drizzle with a bit more olive oil and lightly toss to combine.

   
   

The Final Touch: Serving Suggestions

This Roasted Butternut Squash and Chickpea Salad offers incredible versatility. Serve it warm or cold, and don’t hesitate to add toppings like feta cheese, herbs, or balsamic glaze to enhance the flavor!

It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or can be a satisfying standalone meal.

High angle view of a colorful roasted butternut squash salad.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish isn’t just simple to make; it’s also packed with health benefits.

• Butternut Squash: High in vitamins A, C, and E, supporting healthy vision and skin.

• Chickpeas: Rich in plant-based protein, fiber, and iron, helping to maintain steady energy.

• Leafy Greens: Packed with antioxidants, they help enhance overall health.

• Pumpkin Seeds: An excellent source of magnesium, crucial for muscle and nerve function.

  
  

This recipe checks all the boxes: tasty, nutritious, and quick to prepare!

Perfect for Meal Prep

This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can easily double the batch to have quick lunches ready for the week.

Just keep the dressing separate until ready to eat. This will help maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.

Eye-level view of a vibrant healthy fall dinner.

Gather your ingredients, awaken your inner chef, and treat yourself to a meal that warms your heart and satisfies your cravings. Embrace fall's flavors and relish every bite!

Happy cooking!