Roasted Kabocha Squash and Cous Cous Summer Salad

Serves 4

1 large kabocha squash 

1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided 

2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided 

1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper 

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes 

1/2 cup seedless cucumber, skins and seeds removed, cut into 1/2” cubes 

1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives, cut in half lengthwise 

1/2 cup diced red onion 

1/2 cup diced tomato 

1 5.8 ounce box plain cous cous 

1/2 cup cubed feta 

Balsamic Dressing, recipe follows 

Basil leaves for garnish 

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. 

Cut the kabocha squash in half and discard the seeds.  Cut the squash into 10 wedges and toss with 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes until each piece is evenly coated. 

Place the squash skin side down on a baking sheet and roast  for 25 minutes or until fork tender. Remove from oven and allow to slightly cool. 

Meanwhile, combine the cucumber, olives, red onion and tomato with enough balsamic dressing to moisten (do not overdress). Toss to combine. Set aside. 

Bring 1 1/4 cups water a boil in a small saucepan with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil. Turn off the heat and stir in the cous cous. Cover and allow to sit for 5 minutes then remove the lid and fluff with a fork. 

To assemble: place an even layer of cous cous on the bottom of a serving platter. Top with the roasted kobocha squash and vegetable mixture salad. Carefully scatter the feta being careful not to crumble it.  Drizzle a bit more balsamic dressing on top then finish with whole basil leaves. Serve immediately. 

Balsamic Dressing: 

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

1/4 balsamic vinegar

1 tablespoon dijon mustard

1 teaspoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon honey

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Place the ingredients into a 4-cup glass measuring cup and whisk until smooth. Set aside until ready to use - whisk again before serving.