Irresistible Tasty Maple Roasted Butternut Squash Salad

There’s something utterly enchanting about the Tasty Maple Roasted Butternut Squash Salad. Imagine the sweet aroma of roasted butternut squash mingling with the earthy tones of fresh greens, creating a melody of flavors that dances on your taste buds. Each bite is like a warm hug from autumn, and trust me, you’ll want to savor every moment.

This salad isn’t just for those fancy dinner parties or Instagram-worthy brunches; it’s perfect for cozy family gatherings or even solo lunch moments where you need a little pick-me-up. I still remember the first time I made this dish—it was during a chilly fall evening, and my kitchen smelled like a sweet, warm hug. My family couldn’t get enough, and I’ve been making it ever since!

I vividly recall the first time I served this salad; my friends were fighting over the last spoonful!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Butternut Squash: Choose firm squashes with smooth skin for optimal sweetness and flavor.
• Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the overall taste.
• Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup adds that irresistible sweetness; avoid imitation syrup if possible.
• Mixed Greens: Use a blend of baby spinach and arugula for a peppery kick.
• Pecans: Toasted pecans add crunch and a nutty flavor to balance the sweetness.
• Dried Cranberries: These provide bursts of tartness that complement the rich flavors beautifully.
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess and saltiness; goat cheese works well too!
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all other flavors in your salad.
• Balsamic Vinegar: A drizzle at the end gives a tangy finish that ties everything together.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Tasty Maple Roasted Butternut Squash Salad

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that your squash will roast beautifully—think caramelized edges!

Prepare the Butternut Squash: Peel and cube the butternut squash into bite-sized pieces. Toss them in olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until well-coated.

Roast Until Tender: Spread your squash evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for about 25-30 minutes until they’re fork-tender and golden brown.

Mix Your Greens: While the squash roasts, grab a large bowl and combine your mixed greens. This is where you’ll build your flavorful masterpiece.

Add Toppings: Once your squash is ready, allow it to cool slightly before adding it to the greens. Then sprinkle toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and crumbled feta on top.

Dress It Up: Finally, drizzle balsamic vinegar over your salad right before serving. Toss gently to combine all those incredible flavors without crushing anything!

And there you have it! A Tasty Maple Roasted Butternut Squash Salad that will leave everyone at your table smiling—and maybe even going back for seconds! Enjoy each colorful bite as you embrace all that autumn has to offer.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by roasting the butternut squash for caramelization, while preparing the dressing and other ingredients simultaneously for efficiency.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the squash with sweet potatoes or add nuts for crunch. Customize the dressing with your favorite spices to elevate flavors.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave to maintain texture.

Cooking this Tasty Maple Roasted Butternut Squash Salad always brings back memories of autumn gatherings when friends rave about its flavor.

FAQ

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components separately and combine them just before serving.

What can I substitute for maple syrup?

Honey or agave syrup can work as great alternatives if you’re out of maple syrup.

Is this salad vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! This Tasty Maple Roasted Butternut Squash Salad is completely plant-based and delicious.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Tasty Maple Roasted Butternut Squash Salad

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Tasty Maple Roasted Butternut Squash Salad. This vibrant dish combines the sweetness of roasted butternut squash with mixed greens, crunchy pecans, and tangy feta cheese, all drizzled with balsamic vinegar for a perfect balance of sweet and savory. Ideal for any occasion, it’s not just a salad; it’s a celebration of autumn on your plate!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups butternut squash, cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 4 cups mixed greens (baby spinach and arugula)
• 1/2 cup pecans, toasted
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until well-coated.
3. Spread the squash on a lined baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and golden brown.
4. While roasting, combine mixed greens in a large bowl.
5. Once the squash is ready and slightly cooled, add it to the greens along with toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and crumbled feta.
6. Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the salad and toss gently before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 20mg