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Crisp Fall Green Salad with Benne Seed Ginger Dressing

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Crisp Fall Green Salad with Benne Seed Ginger Dressing is a vibrant, seasonal salad featuring fresh greens, apples, roasted squash, and a rich, gingery dressing made with toasted benne seeds. It’s a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy elements ideal for autumn meals.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups mixed fall greens (arugula, spinach, kale, baby romaine)
  • 1 apple, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups roasted butternut squash or sweet potato cubes
  • 1/2 cup radicchio or red cabbage, shredded (optional)
  • 1/3 cup toasted pecans or walnuts
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds (optional)
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion or shallots (optional)
  • 2 tbsp benne seeds or toasted sesame seeds
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast benne seeds until golden and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes. Set aside to cool.
  2. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together ginger, garlic, rice vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, sesame oil, and olive oil. Stir in toasted benne seeds. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced apple, roasted squash, and optional toppings like radicchio, onions, or cranberries.
  4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly.
  5. Serve immediately, topped with extra benne seeds or nuts if desired.

Notes

  • Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
  • Roasted squash or sweet potatoes can be made ahead and stored in the fridge.
  • Add grains or legumes like quinoa or lentils for a heartier salad.
  • Warm roasted vegetables can be added just before serving for a cozy touch.
  • Substitute benne seeds with sesame, pumpkin, or sunflower seeds if needed.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/crisp-fall-green-salad-with-benne-seed-ginger-dressing/