Go Back
Autumn glow salad with roasted vegetables, freekeh, apple, parsley, and lemon dressing in a bowl

Autumn Glow Salad with Roasted Vegetables and Lemon Dressing

Autumn Glow Salad is a hearty grain salad with tender roasted vegetables, crisp apple, fresh herbs, and a bright lemon dressing. It is a comforting seasonal dish with balanced textures and flavors that works well for gatherings or everyday meals.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 425
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Salad
  • 1 cup freekeh or other grain (quinoa, bulgur, etc.)
  • 1 head cauliflower
  • 2 sweet potatoes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • A sprinkle of dried spices of choice, or a few sprigs of thyme, rosemary, etc.
  • 1 large apple
Lemon Dressing
  • 1 bunch parsley (about 1 cup), minced
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced
  • 2/3 cup olive oil
  • Juice of one lemon (more to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon agave (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Pepper to taste

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Rinse the grains and cook them in a rice cooker with the amount of broth or water recommended for the specific grain package directions. Use the white rice setting if available, and prepare the remaining ingredients while the grains cook.
  2. Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Cut the cauliflower into small florets, peel and chop the sweet potatoes, then place them on a baking sheet.
  3. Drizzle the vegetables with oil, season with salt and pepper, and add thyme sprigs or other dried spices as desired.
Cooking
  1. Roast the vegetables for 20 minutes, stir them, and continue roasting for another 10-15 minutes until they are tender and browned. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Assembly
  1. While the vegetables roast, combine all dressing ingredients in a jar with a tight lid and shake until combined.
  2. Chop the apple and set it aside.
  3. Combine the cooked grains, roasted vegetables, and apple, then toss with the dressing. Serve warm or allow the mixture to cool before combining for a different texture.
Serving
  1. Store the salad and dressing separately when possible for leftover portions.

Notes

For added crunch, mix in a few handfuls of chopped nuts such as cashews or pecans. Nutrition facts are based on 6 servings.