Warm Roasted Pumpkin Salad with Pearl Barley, Kale & Nuts

Warm Roasted Pumpkin Salad is a hearty, nutrient-rich dish made with roasted pumpkin, pearl barley, kale, and toasted nuts. This cozy warm salad is full of texture, naturally sweet, high in fiber, and perfect for fall and winter meals. It comes together quickly, works as a main or side dish, and is ideal for anyone who enjoys wholesome, plan

Yield: 2 servings | Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 20 minutes | Total time: 30 minutes

Ingredients for Warm Roasted Pumpkin Salad

• 2 cups cubed pumpkin or butternut squash (about ½ small pumpkin)
• ½ cup quick-cooking pearl barley (or pre-cooked barley)
• 2 cups loosely packed chopped kale (about two handfuls)
• ¼ small red onion, finely chopped
• 6–8 cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp balsamic vinegar or fresh lemon juice
• 2 tbsp toasted mixed nuts (hazelnuts, pistachios, pine nuts, etc.)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

How to Make Warm Roasted Pumpkin Salad

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange pumpkin cubes on a lined baking sheet, drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and roast 15–18 minutes, flipping once.
2. Cook quick-cooking pearl barley according to package directions (usually 10–15 minutes). Drain and set aside.
3. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet. Sauté the chopped red onion and kale for 2–3 minutes, just until the kale softens.
4. In a large bowl, combine roasted pumpkin, cooked barley, sautéed kale and onions, and cherry tomatoes.
5. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar or lemon juice, season with salt and pepper, and toss gently.
6. Top with toasted nuts and serve warm.

Nutrition (per serving):
Calories: 320 | Protein: 7 g | Carbs: 40 g | Fat: 15 g |

Serving Ideas

• Add feta or goat cheese for extra creaminess
• Serve on a warm bowl of quinoa for a full meal
• Add a spoonful of hummus for more protein