This Keto Pumpkin and Goat Cheese Salad is a harmonious blend of creamy, tangy goat cheese and sweet roasted pumpkin, brought to life with a sprinkle of crunchy seeds and a simple, flavorsome dressing. It’s the perfect low-carb meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture.
1mediumpumpkinabout 2 lbs / 900g, peeled, deseeded and cut into cubes
4ozgoat cheesecrumbled
¼cupolive oildivided
1tspsalt
½tspblack pepper
2tbspapple cider vinegar
1tspDijon mustard
1tbsperythritolor other keto-friendly sweetener
¼cuppumpkin seeds
5ozmixed salad greens
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Arrange the pumpkin cubes on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with half of the olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
Roast the pumpkin in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized, turning once halfway through the cooking time.
While the pumpkin is roasting, prepare the dressing by whisking together the remaining olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, erythritol, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until well combined and emulsified.
Toast the pumpkin seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, or until they start to pop and become fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, roasted pumpkin, crumbled goat cheese, and toasted pumpkin seeds.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately.
Notes
The sweetness of the pumpkin is a perfect contrast to the tangy goat cheese, but for those who prefer a more savory salad, the sweetener in the dressing can be reduced or omitted.If pumpkin seeds are not available, sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts can be used as a substitute for that added crunch.This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to prepare in advance, keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving to maintain the freshness of the greens.