winter salad

in an effort for a healthier 2009, i've been trying to come up with interesting and delicious salads for lunch every afternoon. we had this yesterday and it's one of my favorites so far. it's a nice combination of wintery flavors, creamy dressing, and uses the easiest cold weather cooking method - roasting! i also just found the most beautiful wild arugula at trader joes which was very exciting. see, eating healthier isn't as bad as it sounds.

Winter Roasted Salad

1 small butternut squash, peeled, seeded & cut into 1-inch chunks

1 red onion, cut into chunks

3 tbs olive oil

salt & pepper

1/4 cup walnuts

2 tbs goat cheese, crumbled

1/2 cup plain yogurt

1/2 lemon, juiced

1 clove garlic, minced

pinch of ground cumin

3 cups wild arugula

1 small pink lady apple, cut into 1/2-inch chunks

preheat oven to 425 degrees F. toss squash and onions with olive oil, salt and pepper on a large sheet pan. roast until squash is tender, about 25 minutes. add walnuts and toss. return to the oven for 5-8 minutes. in a small bowl, whisk together goat cheese, yogurt, lemon juice, garlic and cumin. season to taste with salt & pepper. lightly toss arugula with olive oil and place on a plate or shallow bowl. top with apple, roasted vegetables and drizzle with dressing. enjoy!