Butternut Squash Feta Salad: A Perfect Blend of Sweet and Savory

If you’re looking for a salad that’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to prepare, the Butternut Squash Feta Salad is a must-try. This salad combines the earthy sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the creamy tang of feta cheese, creating a mouthwatering blend of textures and flavors. Dressed with a zesty maple date vinaigrette, it’s a delicious and nutritious choice for any occasion. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, this salad is sure to impress your family and guests.

Why You’ll Love This Butternut Squash Feta Salad

This Butternut Squash Feta Salad is the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and tangy. The roasted squash provides a tender, caramelized texture that pairs beautifully with the crumbly feta. The addition of dates in the dressing adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory elements of the dish. The maple date vinaigrette elevates the salad with its zesty and sweet flavors, while arugula gives it a fresh, peppery bite. Quick to prepare, this salad can be served warm or chilled, making it a versatile option for both casual meals and special gatherings.

Ingredients

• Butternut Squash: The star of the salad, this vegetable is sweet and earthy, adding richness and depth to the dish.
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta brings a tangy, creamy contrast to the roasted squash and maple dressing.
• Arugula: This peppery green adds a fresh, slightly bitter note that balances the sweetness of the squash and dressing.
• Dates: Chopped dates provide natural sweetness and a chewy texture, perfect for the salad’s dressing and as a topping.
• Walnuts: Chopped walnuts offer a crunchy contrast and nutty flavor, complementing the creamy feta and tender squash.
• Dried Cranberries: These add a burst of sweetness and tartness, brightening up the salad.
• Olive Oil: Essential for roasting the squash and creating a rich, flavorful dressing.
• Maple Syrup: A key ingredient in the dressing, it brings sweetness and a smooth finish.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds acidity to balance the sweetness of the maple syrup and dates.
• Spices (Cumin, Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cayenne): These warm spices add depth to the dressing, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

For a twist on this Butternut Squash Feta Salad, consider these alternative ingredients:
• Greens: If you don’t have arugula, you can swap it for spinach, mixed greens, or kale.
• Cheese: Goat cheese or blue cheese can be used instead of feta for a different flavor.
• Nuts: If walnuts aren’t your preference, pecans or almonds would make great substitutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Peel the butternut squash and cut it into 1-inch cubes. Discard the seeds.
2. Place the squash cubes on the baking sheet and drizzle them with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, cayenne, and toss to coat evenly. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until the squash is tender and browned around the edges.
3. While the squash roasts, prepare the maple date dressing. In a small blender, combine lemon juice, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, cumin, cinnamon, nutmeg, garlic, soaked dates, water, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
4. Once the squash has roasted, let it cool for a few minutes. To assemble, place arugula in a large bowl. Top with the roasted squash, walnuts, cranberries, and chopped dates. Drizzle with the maple dressing and finish by sprinkling crumbled feta over the top. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

• Evenly Size the Squash: Cutting the butternut squash into evenly sized cubes ensures they cook at the same rate, giving you perfectly roasted pieces.
• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the squash and dressing in advance. Keep them separate until you’re ready to serve to avoid soggy greens.
• Add Protein: Turn this salad into a meal by adding grilled chicken, turkey, or even roasted chickpeas for a vegan option.
• Store Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Be sure to keep the dressing separate to maintain the salad’s freshness.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This Butternut Squash Feta Salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. For a complete meal, serve it alongside grilled salmon, roasted chicken, or a hearty turkey burger. It also complements light dishes like pesto flatbread or Margherita flatbread.

If you’re looking for a spicy kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or more cayenne pepper to the dressing. For a tangier version, increase the amount of apple cider vinegar in the dressing.

Seasonal Touch

This Butternut Squash Feta Salad is a perfect choice for fall and winter months, when squash is in season. Its hearty ingredients make it ideal for Thanksgiving dinners, holiday feasts, or any cozy meal.

Whether served warm or cold, this Butternut Squash Feta Salad is a delightful addition to your recipe rotation. Its balance of flavors, textures, and nutritional benefits make it a versatile and satisfying dish. Enjoy it on its own or paired with your favorite protein!

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Butternut Squash Feta Salad is a delicious and versatile dish that brings together sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in every bite. With its hearty texture from the roasted squash, the creamy feta, and the maple date vinaigrette, it’s a salad that works for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a side dish or as a main course with added protein, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Try it today and enjoy the perfect combination of seasonal flavors in one dish!

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