Festive Gut-Friendly Roasted Vegetable Salad with Pomegranate & Tahini Dressing

This vibrant roasted vegetable salad is packed with gut-friendly fibre, probiotics, and prebiotics, making it a delicious addition to your holiday table. The combination of roasted veggies, tangy pomegranate seeds, and creamy tahini dressing is not only festive but also nourishing.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

For the Salad:

• 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 large beet, peeled and cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup roasted pumpkin seeds (or walnuts)

For the Tahini Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons tahini
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 small clove of garlic, finely minced
• 2–3 tablespoons water (to thin the dressing as needed)
• Salt, to taste

Instructions

Roast the Vegetables:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss the Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, and beets in olive oil. Sprinkle it with cinnamon, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on the baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and tender.
   

Prepare the Dressing:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, honey, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt.
2. Gradually add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches your desired consistency (it should be creamy but pourable).

Assemble the Salad:

1. Arrange the roasted vegetables on a serving platter or in a large salad bowl.
2. Sprinkle with pomegranate seeds, parsley, and roasted pumpkin seeds.
3. Drizzle the tahini dressing generously over the top.
4. Serve & Enjoy: Serve warm or at room temperature as a festive side dish or a light main course.

Why It’s Gut-Friendly:

• Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, and beets are high in fibre, which supports healthy digestion.
• Tahini is rich in healthy fats and nutrients that soothe the gut.
• Pomegranate seeds add antioxidants and prebiotic benefits.
• Pumpkin seeds or walnuts provide healthy fats that support gut lining integrity.