This delicious Roasted Squash, Kale & Feta Salad with Walnut Vinaigrette Recipe is part of our Foods To Fight Seasonal Affective Disorder series for the national daytime show The List. It’s full of healthy ingredients that are great for busting symptoms of depression!

How Can It Help with Seasonal Affective Disorder?

Roasted Squash, Pumpkin Seeds, and Walnut Vinaigrette are all a great source of Omega-3s, which prevent inflammation and boost brain function. In fact, one study from the University of Pittsburgh found that people who had diets higher in omega-3 fatty acids were less likely to experience depression.

We all know that Kale is super healthy, but did you know that it’s one of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet? It contains SO many minerals that most of us lack, as well as Vitamin B9 or folate, which plays a huge role in producing dopamine for your brain!

Ingredients for this Roasted Squash, Kale & Feta Salad with Walnut Vinaigrette Recipe

• 4 cups butternut squash, in 1” cubes
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 
• 2 bunches of kale, leaves only, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
• 4 ounces crumbled Feta cheese 
• 1/4 cup roasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas)

For the Citrus Walnut Vinaigrette:

• 2 tablespoons sherry vinegar
• 1 orange, zested and juiced
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon grainy mustard
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons walnut oil
• 2 tablespoons water
• ½ teaspoon kosher or sea salt
• Freshly ground black pepper

How to Make this Roasted Squash, Kale & Feta Salad with Walnut Vinaigrette Recipe

1. Preheat the oven to 450F. In a large bowl, toss the squash with the oil. Spread onto a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast 20 minutes, until squash is golden and cooked through.
2. In a large bowl, add the kale and salt. Use your hands to “massage” the salt into the kale, until the kale is bright green and silky-soft. Add in the roasted squash, feta cheese and pumpkin seeds.
3. To make the dressing, in a mason jar (with a tight-fitting lid), add all of the dressing ingredients and shake vigorously, until combined. Toss with the Citrus Walnut Vinaigrette. 

FAQs

What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?

Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression that occurs in the fall and winter months due to a lack of natural sunlight. It affects 20% of Americans, 75% of which are women. It causes fatigue, brain fog, sleep problems, anxiety, depression, and weight gain.

Can you freeze roasted butternut squash?

Butternut squash freezes well no matter whether it’s raw or cooked. Already cut it into chunks? No problem! Freeze them the same way you would freeze berries: space them evenly on a baking sheet and place in the freezer. Once frozen, gather them into a freezer-safe container, leaving room for expansion. 

More Recipes to Beat Seasonal Affective Disorder

• Salmon & Creamy Spinach with Mushroom Sauce Recipe
• Healthy Turkey Stroganoff Recipe