Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Butternut Squash Salad

Butternut Squash Salad

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 15
  • Cook Time: 30
  • Total Time: 45
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: Modern Fusion
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This vibrant butternut squash salad celebrates the earthy harvest with a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. Roasted, caramelized squash meets nutty quinoa, crisp apple slices, and sweet cranberries, elevated by the satisfying crunch of toasted pumpkin seeds and the tangy richness of feta. Drizzled with a balsamic vinaigrette, this plant-forward dish is deeply nourishing, making it an ideal choice for a light yet satisfying weekday lunch or a grounding centerpiece for your weekend gathering.


Ingredients

Scale

1 medium butternut squash, peeled seedless and cubed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup uncooked quinoa
1 3/4 cups water
1/2 cup red onion, chopped
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup roasted pumpkin seeds
8 ounces arugula or mixed greens
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1 medium apple, cored and thinly sliced
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
Salt and black pepper to taste


Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Toss butternut squash cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and golden.
While squash roasts, rinse quinoa and combine with water in a medium pot. Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and cool.
In a small jar, whisk together balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, and honey for the vinaigrette.
In a large salad bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, roasted squash, arugula, red onion, cranberries, apple slices, and pumpkin seeds.
Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Top with crumbled feta cheese before serving.


Notes

Store the salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If using fresh greens, keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness. You can swap feta for goat cheese or a vegan nut-based cheese alternative.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 cups
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg