Roasted Butternut Squash Salad With Warm Cider Vinaigrette

11/2 pounds butternut squash, peeled, seeded and cut into 3/4-inch pieces

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

1 tablespoon maple syrup

2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided

1 teaspoon ground black pepper, divided

3 tablespoons dried cranberries

3/4 cup apple cider or apple juice

2 tablespoons cider vinegar

2 tablespoons minced shallots

2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

4 ounces baby arugula

1/2 cup toasted walnut halves

3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

Heat the oven to 400 degrees.

In a large bowl, combine the squash, 2 tablespoons of the olive oil, the maple syrup, 1 teaspoon of the salt and 1/2 teaspoon of the pepper. Toss well, then spread the squash evenly over a baking sheet.

Roast the squash until tender, turning once, about 15-20 minutes. Add the cranberries to the pan for the last 5 minutes.

While the squash is roasting, in a small saucepan combine the apple cider, vinegar and shallots. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the liquid is reduced to about 1/4 cup.

Remove the saucepan from the heat and whisk in the mustard, the remaining 1/2 cup of olive oil, and the remaining 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper.

Place the arugula in a large serving bowl. Add the roasted squash mixture, the walnuts and the Parmesan. Spoon just enough vinaigrette over the salad to moisten, then toss well. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and serve immediately.

Serves four.

"Barefoot Contessa Back to Basics" by Ina Garten (2008 Clarkson Potter)