Cecilia Wong, 5th & Glow — 13 Dec 2024
#1 Favorite Recipe We Tried This Week:
Radiant Skin Winter Salad 🥗✨
Kick off the New Year with a burst of color and nutrition! This salad is a powerhouse of skin‑loving ingredients that will help you glow from within during the chilly January days.
Ingredients:
- For the Salad:
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 cups chopped kale (stems removed)
- 1 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup toasted walnuts or pecans
- For the Citrus Vinaigrette:
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Roast the Butternut Squash:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized. Let cool.
Prepare the Kale:
- Place the chopped kale in a large salad bowl.
- Drizzle a tiny bit of olive oil and a pinch of salt over the kale.
- Massage the kale with your hands for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes tender and bright green.
Make the Citrus Vinaigrette:
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the orange juice, lemon juice, orange zest, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper.
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously until the dressing is well emulsified.
Assemble the Salad:
- Add the roasted butternut squash, pomegranate seeds, toasted nuts, and crumbled cheese (if using) to the kale.
- Pour the citrus vinaigrette over the salad.
- Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
Serve:
- Transfer the salad to a serving platter or enjoy it straight from the bowl.
- Garnish with extra pomegranate seeds or nuts for an added touch.
Beauty Benefits
- Kale: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, promoting collagen production and skin elasticity.
- Butternut Squash: Packed with beta‑carotene and antioxidants that combat skin‑damaging free radicals.
- Pomegranate Seeds: High in antioxidants and polyphenols that nourish the skin and promote a healthy glow.
- Citrus Fruits: Loaded with vitamin C to brighten the skin and boost your immune system during winter.
Tip: For added protein, toss in some grilled chicken or chickpeas. This salad is versatile—feel free to make it your own!
Enjoy this delightful and nutritious salad that's as good for your skin as it is for your taste buds!