Butternut Squash Feta Salad

If you’re looking for a salad that feels like a warm hug, then this Butternut Squash Feta Salad is just what you need! This delightful mix of roasted butternut squash, peppery arugula, and creamy feta creates a symphony of flavors that’s simply irresistible. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this salad will surely steal the show. It’s hearty enough to satisfy while still being light and refreshing.

What makes this recipe special is not just its taste but also how easy it is to prepare. The sweet and savory elements combined with the zesty maple date vinaigrette create layers of flavor that are sure to please everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious salad ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will enjoy the sweetness of the butternut squash paired with salty feta.
• Make-Ahead Option: The components can be prepared in advance, making it great for meal prep or potlucks.
• Flavorful Dressing: The maple date vinaigrette adds a bright kick that elevates each bite.
• Versatile Ingredients: These wholesome ingredients work well together and can easily be modified based on what you have at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Butternut Squash Feta Salad uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Each element plays a key role in creating this flavorful dish.

For the Salad

• 1 small butternut squash
• 1½ Tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for a little heat)
• 7 cups arugula (see notes)
• ⅓ cup feta, crumbled (see notes)
• 3 dates, pitted and chopped
• ¼ cup walnuts, chopped
• ¼ cup dried cranberries

For the Dressing

• 3 Tbsp olive oil
• 3 Tbsp maple syrup
• 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1-2 tsp water (to thin the dressing)
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• ¼ tsp cumin
• ¼ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 garlic clove
• 1 soaked date, pitted (see notes)

Variations

One of the best parts about this Butternut Squash Feta Salad is its flexibility. Feel free to get creative and adjust it based on your preferences!

• Add Some Protein: Toss in some grilled chicken or chickpeas for an extra boost of protein.
• Try Different Greens: Swap out arugula for spinach or kale if you prefer something different.
• Incorporate Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can bring an exciting freshness to the salad.
• Change Up the Nuts: If walnuts aren’t your favorite, pecans or almonds would work beautifully too!

How to Make Butternut Squash Feta Salad

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Peel your butternut squash using a vegetable peeler and cut it into small 1-inch cubes. Discard any seeds. This step is crucial as roasting enhances the natural sweetness of the squash and gives it a nice caramelized finish.

Step 2: Season and Bake

Place the cubed butternut squash on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, cayenne pepper (if using), and black pepper. Toss everything together so that each piece is coated evenly. Spreading them out on the baking sheet allows for even roasting—this ensures they get tender and golden brown around the edges in about 30 to 40 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Maple Dressing

While the squash roasts, it’s time to whip up your dressing! In a small blender, combine lemon juice, maple syrup, cumin, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, apple cider vinegar, garlic clove, soaked date, water, and olive oil. Blend until smooth. This dressing adds that zesty kick which balances perfectly with all other flavors!

Step 4: Assemble Your Salad

Once your squash has finished roasting and cooled slightly—it’s assembly time! I like to start with a bed of arugula at the bottom. Then add in your roasted butternut squash cubes followed by walnuts, dried cranberries, chopped dates, and finally drizzle with dressing before topping off with crumbled feta. Serve immediately and enjoy every bite of this delightful dish!

Pro Tips for Making Butternut Squash Feta Salad

Creating a delicious Butternut Squash Feta Salad can be effortless with just a few handy tips! Here are some ideas to elevate your dish.

• Choose the Right Squash: Look for a firm butternut squash with smooth skin and no blemishes. A fresh squash will ensure the best flavor and texture in your salad.
• Roast Until Perfectly Caramelized: Don’t rush the roasting process. Allow the squash to become tender and develop a golden-brown color, which adds a delicious depth of flavor to your salad.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer less heat, skip the cayenne pepper. Conversely, if you love spice, feel free to add more! Tailoring the heat to your taste makes this salad even more enjoyable.
• Make Ahead: Roast the butternut squash and prepare the dressing in advance. This salad can be assembled quickly when you’re ready to eat, making it perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights!
• Experiment with Greens: While arugula is fantastic, don’t hesitate to try other greens like spinach or kale for added variety and nutrition. Each green brings its own unique flavor profile.

How to Serve Butternut Squash Feta Salad

Presentation matters when it comes to salads! This Butternut Squash Feta Salad is vibrant and colorful, making it perfect for showcasing at gatherings or as a beautiful side at dinner.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro on top to add a pop of color and fresh flavor.
• Zest it up: A touch of lemon or orange zest can brighten up the entire dish, enhancing those zesty notes in the vinaigrette.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Pilaf: A fluffy quinoa pilaf with herbs and nuts complements the flavors of this salad beautifully while adding protein.
• Grilled Chicken or Tofu: For added protein, serve grilled chicken breast or marinated tofu on the side. Both options pair well with the sweetness of butternut squash.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies provides an earthy balance that enhances the overall meal experience.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm crusty bread or garlic bread for a delightful way to soak up any extra dressing left on your plate!

Enjoy creating this beautiful, flavorful Butternut Squash Feta Salad that will surely impress your family and friends! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Butternut Squash Feta Salad is perfect for meal prep, making it not only a delicious choice but also a practical one. You can easily prepare several components in advance, allowing you to enjoy this hearty salad throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the assembled salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until you are ready to serve to maintain the freshness of the greens.
• If you have leftover roasted butternut squash, refrigerate it in a separate container for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• While I don’t recommend freezing the entire salad as it may change the texture of the greens, you can freeze roasted butternut squash.
• Allow the squash to cool completely before placing it in an airtight freezer bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to use it.

Reheating

• If using leftover roasted squash, reheat it in a microwave-safe dish for about 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
• You can also toss it back into a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes if you prefer a crispier texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Butternut Squash Feta Salad.

Can I make Butternut Squash Feta Salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare all ingredients beforehand and store them separately. Combine everything just before serving for optimal freshness.

What is a good substitute for feta in Butternut Squash Feta Salad?

You can use crumbled goat cheese or a dairy-free feta alternative if you’re looking for a non-dairy option that still adds that creamy tang.

How do I add more protein to my Butternut Squash Feta Salad?

Consider adding chickpeas, quinoa, or grilled chicken (if you’re not avoiding meat) for an extra protein boost!

Is Butternut Squash Feta Salad healthy?

Absolutely! This salad is packed with nutrients from fresh greens, squash, nuts, and cranberries while being low in calories and high in fiber.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Butternut Squash Feta Salad as much as I do! Its combination of sweet roasted squash with tangy feta and crunchy walnuts creates a wonderful balance that’s perfect as a light lunch or side dish. Remember, cooking should be fun and enjoyable—so don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own. Happy cooking!