Introduction

Autumn Cobb Salad with Roasted Pumpkin Seeds is a vibrant, hearty, and nutrient-packed salad that celebrates the flavors of fall. Featuring a mix of crisp greens, roasted seasonal vegetables, protein-rich toppings, and crunchy pumpkin seeds, this salad is both visually appealing and satisfying. The combination of roasted butternut squash, apples, cranberries, avocado, and tangy dressing provides a perfect balance of flavors and textures—sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy.

Perfect for lunch, light dinners, or even as a side for festive gatherings, this salad is a colorful way to enjoy seasonal produce. It’s filling, healthy, and bursting with flavors that make fall feel cozy in every bite.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this salad because it’s nutrient-dense, flavorful, and versatile. The roasted pumpkin seeds add a satisfying crunch and earthy flavor, while the mix of roasted vegetables and fresh ingredients keeps each bite exciting. It’s not just a salad—it’s a full meal with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, all presented in a visually stunning way.

Additionally, it’s a recipe that can easily be adapted based on what’s in season or what you have in your pantry. The balance of flavors—sweet apples, savory roasted squash, creamy avocado, and tangy dressing—is absolutely irresistible.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

• Seasonal and fresh: Uses fall produce for maximum flavor.
• Hearty and filling: Protein and healthy fats make it more than just a side salad.
• Healthy: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Texturally satisfying: Creamy avocado, crunchy pumpkin seeds, and roasted vegetables.
• Perfect for entertaining: Elegant presentation makes it ideal for holiday tables.

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~350 calories per serving
• Course: Salad / Light Meal
• Cuisine: American / Fall-inspired

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 4 cups mixed salad greens (spinach, arugula, or romaine)
• 1 cup roasted butternut squash, cubed
• 1 apple, diced
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ½ avocado, sliced
• ½ cup cooked chicken breast or turkey (optional for protein)
• ½ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
• ¼ cup roasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Roasted Pumpkin Seeds:

• ¼ cup raw pumpkin seeds
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• Pinch of salt

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Cooking Directions

Roasting Pumpkin Seeds:

1. Preheat a skillet or oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Toss pumpkin seeds with olive oil and a pinch of salt.
3. Roast for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and fragrant.

Preparing the Salad:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper; roast for 20–25 minutes until tender.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, roasted squash, diced apple, dried cranberries, avocado, and cooked chicken (if using).
3. Crumble feta or goat cheese over the salad.
4. Sprinkle roasted pumpkin seeds on top.

Making the Dressing:

1. Whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup or honey, salt, and pepper.
2. Drizzle dressing over salad just before serving.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Preheat oven and roast butternut squash cubes until tender.
2. Prepare roasted pumpkin seeds in a skillet or oven.
3. Dice apple, slice avocado, and cook chicken if using.
4. Assemble salad: greens, roasted squash, apple, cranberries, avocado, chicken.
5. Add crumbled cheese and roasted pumpkin seeds.
6. Whisk dressing ingredients together.
7. Drizzle dressing over salad and toss gently to combine.
8. Serve immediately.

How to Serve

• Serve on a large platter for family-style meals or individually in bowls.
• Pair with warm whole-grain bread or crackers.
• Ideal as a main course for lunch or a light dinner.
• Can also accompany roasted meats for a fall feast.

Recipe Tips

• Roast pumpkin seeds in advance and store in an airtight container for extra crunch.
• Adjust sweetness by using different apple varieties or adding a drizzle of honey.
• For added crunch, include roasted chickpeas or toasted nuts.
• Use seasonal vegetables like roasted carrots or sweet potatoes for variety.
• Dress just before serving to prevent greens from wilting.

---

Variations

1. Vegan Version: Skip cheese and use a tahini-based dressing.
2. Grain Bowl Version: Add cooked quinoa, farro, or brown rice for a more filling meal.
3. Protein Boost: Add hard-boiled eggs, grilled tofu, or tempeh.
4. Fruity Twist: Swap cranberries for pomegranate seeds or dried cherries.
5. Cheese Variation: Use blue cheese or shaved parmesan instead of feta/goat cheese.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Salad ingredients (without dressing) can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Dressing: Store separately in the fridge for up to 1 week.
• Do not freeze: Greens, avocado, or roasted vegetables with dressing—best served fresh.

Special Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet for roasting squash
• Skillet or small baking sheet for pumpkin seeds
• Knife and cutting board
• Mixing bowl for salad
• Whisk for dressing

FAQ

Q1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, prep vegetables and pumpkin seeds ahead, but assemble salad and add dressing just before serving.

Q2: Can I use canned pumpkin instead of roasted squash?
A: Fresh roasted squash provides better texture and flavor, but canned pumpkin can be used for a creamy variation.

Q3: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Yes, simply ensure any added grains or toppings are gluten-free.

Q4: Can I add other seeds or nuts?
A: Yes, sunflower seeds, almonds, or pecans work well.

Q5: Can this salad be served warm?
A: Yes, lightly warm roasted squash and chicken before adding to the greens for a cozy autumn salad.

Conclusion

Autumn Cobb Salad with Roasted Pumpkin Seeds is a colorful, nutrient-rich, and flavorful salad perfect for fall. With a balance of sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy elements, it’s satisfying enough to serve as a main course while being elegant enough for entertaining. Quick to prepare, highly versatile, and packed with seasonal goodness, this salad is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy, festive, and delicious meal during the autumn months.