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Butternut Squash Salad
This Butternut Squash Salad is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy flavors. Roasted butternut squash adds a caramelized depth, while fresh greens, nuts, and a tangy dressing make this dish a delightful, nutrient-packed option for lunch or dinner. Whether you serve it as a light meal, side dish, or festive salad, this recipe is sure to impress!
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife & Cutting Board
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Large salad bowl
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 medium butternut squash peeled and cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups mixed greens arugula, spinach, or kale
- ½ red onion thinly sliced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese or vegan alternative
- ⅓ cup dried cranberries
- ⅓ cup toasted pecans or walnuts
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Roast the Butternut Squash
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
- Spread the squash evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and tender.
- Let the squash cool slightly before adding to the salad.
Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, red onion, roasted butternut squash, dried cranberries, and toasted nuts.
- Drizzle with the prepared dressing and toss gently to coat.
- Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese before serving.
Notes
Tips & Tricks
- Crispier Squash: For extra crispiness, roast the squash at 425°F (220°C) and broil for the last 2 minutes.
- Make It Vegan: Swap feta cheese with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative.
- Nut-Free Option: Replace pecans with sunflower seeds for a crunchy nut-free version.
- Storage Tip: Keep leftover salad components separate and mix just before serving to maintain freshness.
- Protein Boost: Add chickpeas or grilled chicken for a heartier meal
Nutritional Comparison (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Butternut Squash Salad | Traditional Garden Salad |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~250 | ~150 |
| Protein | ~6g | ~3g |
| Fiber | ~5g | ~2g |
| Healthy Fats | ~14g | ~7g |
| Carbohydrates | ~28g | ~12g |