Why Make This Recipe
Butternut Squash Feta Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. It combines the sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the salty creaminess of feta cheese. This salad is healthy, colorful, and perfect for any meal. It’s quick to prepare and can be served as a light lunch or a side dish for dinner.
How to Make Butternut Squash Feta Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups butternut squash (peeled and diced)
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 4 cups mixed greens (arugula and spinach)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (for roasting)
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated. Spread evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast the squash for 25–30 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized, stirring halfway through. Let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens with olive oil and balsamic vinegar; toss gently to coat.
- Add the roasted butternut squash to the greens, sprinkle with crumbled feta, and toss carefully before serving.
How to Serve Butternut Squash Feta Salad
You can serve Butternut Squash Feta Salad on a large platter or in individual bowls. It goes well with grilled chicken or fish, making it a great main dish. Drizzle a little extra balsamic vinegar on top for added flavor.
How to Store Butternut Squash Feta Salad
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to two days. Keep in mind that the greens may wilt, so it’s best to store the dressing separately if you plan to keep it longer.
Tips to Make Butternut Squash Feta Salad
- Cut the butternut squash into small, even pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Use fresh greens for the best taste and crunch.
- Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra texture and flavor.
Variation
You can add other ingredients like dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds for a touch of sweetness. You might also try different cheeses, like goat cheese, for a new flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Yes, frozen butternut squash can be used. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before roasting.
2. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, Butternut Squash Feta Salad is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
3. Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
You can roast the butternut squash and mix the greens ahead of time, but it’s best to combine them just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
Butternut Squash Feta Salad
A delightful mix of roasted butternut squash and creamy feta cheese, this salad is healthy, colorful, and quick to prepare.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups butternut squash (peeled and diced)
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 4 cups mixed greens (arugula and spinach)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (for roasting)
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated. Spread evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast the squash for 25–30 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized, stirring halfway through. Let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens with olive oil and balsamic vinegar; toss gently to coat.
- Add the roasted butternut squash to the greens, sprinkle with crumbled feta, and toss carefully before serving.
Notes
You can serve this salad with grilled chicken or fish. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 25mg