When the air gets chilly, there’s nothing more comforting than a hearty, nutritious salad packed with seasonal goodness. This Roasted Root-Vegetable Salad is your go-to for cozy winter dinners, holiday gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and loaded with all the vibrant colors and textures you’d expect in a seasonal dish. Plus, it comes with a tangy-sweet maple Dijon vinaigrette that ties it all together.

What You’ll Need to Make This Healthy-Delicious Salad

Are you making this recipe for 1? For 4? Adjust the amounts to suit your family, this recipe is FOOL-PROOF and proportional. Don’t like Brussels sprouts? Sub in your favorite cruciferous vegetable, like broccoli. 

The Salad:

• Sweet Potato – Adds a touch of sweetness along with healthy fiber and antioxidants. 
• Brussels Sprouts – Packed with nutrients like fiber and vitamins, plus a nutty flavor when roasted. 
• Red Onion – Tangy, slightly sweet, and adds a pop of color. 
• Parsnips – High in fiber and vitamins, these add an earthy sweetness. 
• Garlic – Fresh garlic takes the flavor to another level and is great for gut health. 
• Avocado Oil – High-quality oil that enhances the flavor of the roast veggies. 
• Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – The essential seasonings for any delicious dish. 
• Curly Kale – A hearty green that holds up to the roasted veggies while adding nutrients. 
• Dried Cranberries – Sweet and tangy, these add a delightful contrast to the savory elements. 
• Parmesan Cheese – A touch of grated parmesan offers an umami-rich finish. 

The Dressing:

• Apple Cider Vinegar – A fermented base that’s not only tangy but also great for gut health. 
• Maple Syrup – A natural sweetener for the perfect touch of sweetness. 
• Dijon Mustard – Adds tanginess and depth to the vinaigrette. 
• Dried Thyme – A subtle herbal note to bring the dressing to life. 

How to Make Roasted Root-Vegetable Salad

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Veggies 

Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Wash and chop the sweet potato, Brussels sprouts, parsnips, and red onion into similar-sized pieces (this ensures even roasting). Toss the veggies in a bowl with minced garlic, kosher salt, avocado oil, and black pepper until fully coated. Spread the veggies onto the baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender with light caramelization.

Pro Tip: Cutting the vegetables into similar sizes ensures even cooking and gives you those perfectly golden roasted edges.

Step 2: Make the Maple Dijon Vinaigrette 

While your veggies roast, whisk together the vinaigrette ingredients in a small bowl. Use this simple ratio:

• 2 parts oil
• 1 part apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 part maple syrup
• 1/4 part Dijon mustard
• pinch of dried thyme

Season the vinaigrette with salt and pepper to taste, and adjust the sweetness or tanginess if needed. Set it aside for later.

Step 3: Prep the Kale 

Wash and chop the curly kale, removing the tough stems. Add the kale to a large bowl and sprinkle it with a pinch of kosher salt. Massage the kale for 1-2 minutes to soften its fibers—this step helps make it tender and ready to soak up the dressing’s flavors.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad 

Once the veggies are done roasting, remove them from the oven and add them to the bowl with the kale. Toss in the dried cranberries and sprinkle the salad with freshly grated parmesan cheese for a savory, nutty finish. Finally, drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to coat everything evenly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy! 

Your Roasted Root-Vegetable Salad is now ready to serve. Plate it up and enjoy it warm as a standalone meal or as a side dish for your favorite winter-inspired main course.

Storage Tip: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. It’s even great for meal prep—just add fresh dressing before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Salad:

• Seasonal Ingredients: Perfect for winter, featuring roasted root veggies that are hearty and flavorful. 
• Balanced Flavors: Sweet, tangy, savory, and umami all come together in one bowl. 
• Nutritious and Satisfying: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals to fuel your day. 
• Easy to Make: Simple steps and wholesome ingredients make this recipe approachable for any level of cook. 

Try it out this week—we promise it’s as delicious as it is nourishing. Want more healthy tips? Sign up for the Roots of Health Newsletter!