Crisp endive leaves hold a rich blend of roasted squash, sweet/tart cranberries and bright candied ginger. Pepitas brittle with a touch of Cayenne pepper adds the perfect crunch and a little heat to balance out the sweetness in this vegetarian hors d’oeuvre.

Crisp endive and peppery arugula receive sweet balance from a creamy balsamic vinaigrette, sweet/tart cranberries, the bright bite of candied ginger and nutty, toasted pepitas for a little crunch. This salad is as beautiful as it is delicious and a perfect hearty-yet-light-tasting winter lunch.

Happy holidays! Despite the changes to many plans this year the food I want to eat remains the same: lighter and light-tasting work-from-home lunches followed by small bites. Here's a roasted squash, dried cranberry and endive salad that transforms into an elegant hors d'oeuvre.