Butternut Squash Feta Salad
Introduction
Discover the perfect combination of flavors in this butternut squash feta salad. Packed full of wholesome ingredients, this recipe is both delicious and nutritious, making it an excellent choice for a quick lunch, a dinner side, or a festive meal. The balance of sweet roasted butternut squash, tangy feta cheese, and fresh greens makes it a versatile dish that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
For this dish, you will need the following ingredients:
Butternut squash – make sure to peel and dice it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Olive oil – this will help roast your squash to a perfect golden brown color.
Salt – to season the butternut squash and enhance its natural sweetness.
Mixed greens – a fresh base for the salad, choose any mix you like such as spinach, arugula, or spring mix.
Crumbled feta cheese – the tangy taste of feta pairs beautifully with the roasted squash.
Pecans – for added crunch and nuttiness to complement the softness of the roasted squash.
Dried cranberries – these add a touch of sweetness and create a great textural balance.
Dressing – you can use your favorite dressing, though balsamic or a light vinaigrette works perfectly with these flavors.
Prep Time
Preparing this dish is simple and quick, with a minimal amount of time needed for prep work. The butternut squash needs to be peeled, diced, and seasoned, while the other ingredients mostly just require assembling.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The butternut squash will take around 25-30 minutes in the oven to roast to perfection. Once cooked and slightly cooled, assembling the salad takes only a few minutes. Total time for the recipe is about 35-40 minutes. This recipe yields four hearty servings that can be enjoyed as a main or side dish depending on your preference.
This butternut squash feta salad is sure to add a burst of flavor and color to your meal table. Whether it’s for a simple family dinner or a more elaborate festive spread, this recipe is a must-try for those who enjoy a balance of savory and sweet in one delicious plate.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Butternut Squash
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel the butternut squash, remove the seeds, and dice it into small cubes.
3. Spread the cubed squash evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss to coat evenly.
5. Roast the squash in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and lightly golden.
Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base
1. While the squash is roasting, wash and dry your preferred salad greens. Common choices are spinach, arugula, or mixed greens.
2. Place the greens in a large serving bowl or platter.
Step 3: Toast the Pepitas
1. Heat a small skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the pepitas to the skillet and toast them, stirring occasionally, for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
1. Once the butternut squash has finished roasting, let it cool slightly.
2. Arrange the roasted squash over the bed of salad greens.
3. Crumble the feta cheese over the salad.
4. Sprinkle the toasted pepitas evenly on top.
5. Add dried cranberries (or your preferred dried fruit) for a touch of sweetness.
Step 5: Make the Dressing
1. In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to taste.
2. Whisk together until the dressing emulsifies, or shake well if using a jar.
Step 6: Dress and Serve
1. Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad.
2. Toss gently to combine all ingredients, ensuring the dressing coats everything evenly.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy your fresh butternut squash feta salad.
Notes
Roasting Tips
– Ensure the butternut squash cubes are evenly sized so they roast uniformly without some pieces being undercooked or overcooked.
Make-Ahead Option
– You can roast the butternut squash and prepare the dressing in advance. Store the squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat slightly before assembling if needed.
Customizations
– Feel free to add other toppings like pomegranate seeds, walnuts, or goat cheese as substitutes or additions. Experiment with flavors to suit your preferences.
Storage
– If you have leftovers, store the salad without the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Store the dressing separately to keep the greens from becoming soggy.
Vegan Option
– For a vegan version, substitute the feta cheese with a vegan cheese alternative and use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.
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Cook techniques
How to roast butternut squash
Coat the diced butternut squash evenly with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the squash in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the oven at 400°F for approximately 25-30 minutes until the squash is tender with crispy edges. Stir halfway through roasting to ensure even cooking.
How to properly balance flavors
Pair the sweetness of roasted butternut squash with savory elements like feta cheese. The feta adds a tangy, salty contrast, making the dish perfectly balanced. Add freshness with greens and optional crunch with toppings like seeds or nuts.
Combine the salad
Let the roasted butternut squash cool slightly before adding it to the fresh greens. This ensures the greens stay crisp. Toss the squash with additional mix-ins like feta cheese and dried fruit for added texture and flavor.
FAQ
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can roast the butternut squash ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep the greens fresh and crispy.
Can I use another type of squash?
Yes, you can substitute butternut squash with another type of squash, such as acorn squash or delicata squash. Make sure to adjust roasting time as needed.
What is a good alternative to feta cheese?
If you do not have or prefer not to use feta cheese, goat cheese or even a vegan cream cheese crumble can be great alternatives for a similar tangy flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the greens and squash separate to prevent the greens from getting soggy.
Can I use a different type of green?
Yes, you can use any greens you prefer, such as spinach, arugula, or a spring mix. Choose a green that complements the flavors of the roasted squash and feta.
Conclusion
The Butternut Squash Feta Salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. It’s a nutritious, colorful dish, perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a side or a main dish, the balance of roasted butternut squash, creamy feta, and fresh greens will leave you craving more. This recipe is simple to prepare and versatile enough to pair with a variety of meals.
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