Description

This Autumn Caesar Salad with Roasted Delicata Squash Croutons is a vibrant fall salad combining crisp romaine, peppery baby kale or arugula, and shaved Parmesan cheese. Roasted delicata squash slices add a sweet, tender, and crunchy twist as croutons, while roasted pumpkin seeds provide a nutty crunch. Dressed with a classic Caesar dressing and finished with a splash of lemon juice, this salad is a perfect seasonal side or light main dish that’s both wholesome and flavorful.

Ingredients

Scale

Squash Croutons

1 medium delicata squash, halved, seeded, and sliced into 1/2-inch half-moons
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Salad

1 large head romaine lettuce, chopped
2 cups baby kale or arugula
1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
2 tablespoons roasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat and prepare squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss the delicata squash slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Roast the squash: Spread the squash slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through, until they turn golden and become tender. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
Combine salad greens: In a large salad bowl, mix the chopped romaine lettuce with baby kale or arugula and shaved Parmesan cheese, ensuring the ingredients are well combined.
Add dressing and toss: Pour the Caesar dressing over the greens and toss gently to coat all the leaves evenly without bruising.
Assemble and serve: Top the dressed salad with the warm roasted delicata squash slices acting as croutons. Sprinkle roasted pumpkin seeds over the salad and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrasting textures and flavors.

Notes

Substitute the Caesar dressing with a tahini-based or yogurt Caesar-style dressing for a lighter, creamy alternative.
Keep the delicate skin on the delicata squash as it roasts to tender perfection and adds extra texture and flavor.
To make the salad vegan, replace Parmesan with a plant-based alternative and use a vegan Caesar dressing.
Roasted pumpkin seeds can be swapped with toasted nuts or seeds of your choice for added crunch and nutrition.