Butternut Squash and Feta Salad

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

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

For the Maple Date 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 dressing as needed)
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• ¼ tsp cumin
• ¼ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 garlic clove
• 1 soaked date, pitted

Directions:

1. Roast the Butternut Squash: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and cube the butternut squash into bite-sized pieces. Toss with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway through, until tender and lightly caramelized. Set aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Dressing: In a blender or food processor, combine all dressing ingredients—olive oil, maple syrup, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, water (if needed), nutmeg, cumin, cinnamon, salt, garlic, and soaked date. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust consistency with additional water if needed.
3. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, layer arugula, roasted butternut squash, crumbled feta, chopped dates, walnuts, and dried cranberries.
4. Dress and Serve: Drizzle the maple date dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to combine. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes

Kcal: ~310 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings

Butternut Squash and Feta Salad: A Seasonal Delight

The Butternut Squash and Feta Salad is an exquisite blend of seasonal ingredients that effortlessly combine to create a dish bursting with flavor, texture, and color. This salad isn’t just a feast for the taste buds but also a visual masterpiece, showcasing the vibrant hues of fall. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for your family or hosting a festive gathering, this salad is the perfect addition to your culinary repertoire.

A Versatile Seasonal Star

Butternut squash, the star ingredient of this salad, is a quintessential fall vegetable known for its creamy texture and naturally sweet flavor. Its versatility allows it to shine in both sweet and savory dishes, making it a favorite among home cooks and chefs alike. Roasting the squash enhances its natural sweetness and imparts a caramelized flavor that elevates the entire dish.

Paired with peppery arugula, creamy feta, and the sweet chewiness of dates and dried cranberries, this salad achieves a harmonious balance of flavors. The addition of walnuts adds a delightful crunch and earthy undertones, providing the perfect contrast to the soft textures of the squash and feta. The maple date dressing ties it all together, with its sweet, tangy, and subtly spiced profile enhancing every ingredient.

Nutritional Benefits

This salad is not only delicious but also a powerhouse of nutrients. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, which support immune health and provide antioxidant benefits. It is also an excellent source of dietary fiber, promoting digestion and maintaining a feeling of fullness.

Arugula, often considered a superfood, is packed with vitamins K and C, as well as folate and calcium. Its bold, peppery flavor adds complexity to the salad while delivering significant health benefits.

Feta cheese, while indulgent, offers protein and calcium in moderation. The walnuts contribute heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, while the dates and cranberries provide natural sweetness along with a dose of essential minerals and antioxidants.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

1. A Symphony of Flavors
   The sweet, spicy, and tangy elements of this dish come together beautifully. Roasted butternut squash provides a rich base, complemented by the salty creaminess of feta and the zesty maple date dressing. Each ingredient enhances the other, creating a dish that feels both sophisticated and comforting.
2. Perfect for Any Occasion
   This salad is as versatile as it is delicious. Serve it as a side dish with roasted meats or as a standalone vegetarian main course. Its vibrant presentation makes it an ideal choice for holiday feasts, potlucks, or even a casual weeknight dinner.
3. Seasonal and Adaptable
   While this salad is a celebration of fall, its ingredients can easily be adapted for year-round enjoyment. Swap out butternut squash for sweet potatoes in winter or grilled zucchini in summer. The dressing pairs wonderfully with a variety of greens, from spinach to kale.
4. Easy to Make
   Despite its gourmet appeal, this salad is incredibly simple to prepare. Roasting the butternut squash is the most time-consuming step, but the rest of the process is straightforward, making it accessible even for beginner cooks.

Tips for Success

• Choosing the Perfect Squash
  Look for a butternut squash that feels heavy for its size with a firm, smooth skin free of blemishes. A smaller squash works best for this recipe as it cooks faster and ensures tender, flavorful bites.
• Customizing the Ingredients
  While arugula provides a spicy, peppery base, you can substitute it with other greens like baby spinach, mixed greens, or even massaged kale for a heartier option. If feta isn’t your preference, try goat cheese or a plant-based alternative for a vegan-friendly twist.
• Enhancing the Dressing
  The maple date dressing is a standout feature of this recipe. Make it ahead of time to let the flavors meld together. If you prefer a more tangy profile, increase the lemon juice or apple cider vinegar slightly.
• Serving Suggestions
  This salad is best served fresh to preserve the crunchiness of the walnuts and the crispness of the greens. However, you can prepare the components separately and assemble just before serving.

The Perfect Dish for Entertaining

One of the greatest strengths of the Butternut Squash and Feta Salad is its ability to impress without requiring hours of preparation. It’s a dish that looks stunning on the table, with its bold colors and elegant plating. The flavors are approachable yet sophisticated, appealing to a wide range of palates.

For hosts, this salad is a dream come true. It can be made ahead in stages, with the squash roasted and dressing prepared in advance. Simply toss everything together at the last moment, and you have a fresh, vibrant dish ready to delight your guests.

Pairing Ideas

This salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile addition to any menu. For a well-rounded meal, serve it alongside roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or a hearty vegetable soup. Its sweet and savory profile complements savory mains, while the freshness of the arugula and the citrusy dressing provide a refreshing counterpoint.

Conclusion:

The Butternut Squash and Feta Salad is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavor, nutrition, and the joy of cooking with seasonal ingredients. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a weekday meal, this salad is sure to become a favorite. Its combination of textures and flavors makes every bite a delight, while its vibrant presentation ensures it stands out on any table.