Here’s a list of ingredients for a **honey cinnamon pumpkin lentil salad**, formatted with SEO-friendly keywords to help boost visibility:
- **Cooked lentils** (green or brown lentils, high in protein and fiber)
- **Roasted pumpkin** (or butternut squash, rich in vitamins and antioxidants)
- **Fresh baby spinach** (or arugula, for a nutrient-packed base)
- **Crumbled feta cheese** (or goat cheese, for a creamy, tangy flavor)
- **Toasted pumpkin seeds** (pepitas, for added crunch and healthy fats)
- **Dried cranberries** (or raisins, for a touch of natural sweetness)
- **Red onion** (thinly sliced, for a sharp, fresh bite)
- **Fresh parsley** (or cilantro, for a burst of herbaceous flavor)
**For the honey cinnamon dressing:**
- **Extra virgin olive oil** (a heart-healthy base for the dressing)
- **Raw honey** (or maple syrup, for natural sweetness and a hint of floral flavor)
- **Ground cinnamon** (adds warmth and depth to the dressing)
- **Apple cider vinegar** (or lemon juice, for a tangy, refreshing kick)
- **Dijon mustard** (for a subtle sharpness and emulsification)
- **Salt and black pepper** (to taste, for seasoning)
This **honey cinnamon pumpkin lentil salad** is perfect for fall-inspired meals, packed with plant-based protein, and loaded with seasonal flavors. It’s a great option for meal prep, healthy lunches, or holiday side dishes!
Steps
# How to Make a Honey Cinnamon Pumpkin Lentil Salad: A Step-by-Step Guide
This **honey cinnamon pumpkin lentil salad** is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and earthy flavors, making it an ideal dish for fall or any season. Packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients, this salad is both healthy and delicious. Follow these detailed steps to create this **autumn-inspired salad** that’s sure to impress.
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## Ingredients for Honey Cinnamon Pumpkin Lentil Salad
- **1 cup dried lentils** (green or brown)
- **2 cups pumpkin cubes** (fresh or canned)
- **2 tbsp olive oil**
- **1 tbsp honey**
- **1 tsp ground cinnamon**
- **1/2 tsp smoked paprika**
- **Salt and pepper** to taste
- **4 cups mixed greens** (spinach, arugula, or kale)
- **1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese** (optional)
- **1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds**
- **2 tbsp balsamic vinegar** (for dressing)
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## Step-by-Step Instructions
### 1. **Cook the Lentils**
- Rinse **1 cup of lentils** under cold water and drain.
- In a medium pot, add the lentils and cover with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
### 2. **Roast the Pumpkin**
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss **2 cups of pumpkin cubes** with **1 tbsp olive oil**, **1 tsp cinnamon**, **1/2 tsp smoked paprika**, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Spread the pumpkin on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and tender.
### 3. **Prepare the Dressing**
- In a small bowl, whisk together **1 tbsp honey**, **1 tbsp olive oil**, and **2 tbsp balsamic vinegar**. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
### 4. **Assemble the Salad**
- In a large salad bowl, layer **4 cups of mixed greens**, the cooked lentils, and roasted pumpkin.
- Drizzle the honey balsamic dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
### 5. **Add Toppings**
- Sprinkle **1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese** (optional) and **1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds** over the salad for added texture and flavor.
### 6. **Serve and Enjoy**
- Serve the salad immediately as a main dish or side. Pair it with crusty bread or a warm soup for a complete meal.
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## Tips for the Perfect Salad
- Use **fresh pumpkin** for a richer flavor, but canned pumpkin works well for convenience.
- Toast the pumpkin seeds in a dry skillet for 2-3 minutes to enhance their nutty flavor.
- For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
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This **honey cinnamon pumpkin lentil salad** is a nutrient-packed, flavorful dish that’s perfect for meal prep or entertaining. With its combination of **protein-rich lentils**, **roasted pumpkin**, and a **sweet-spiced dressing**, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as healthy as it is delicious. Try this recipe today and enjoy the taste of fall in every bite!