Description
A vibrant and wholesome Butternut Squash Salad featuring roasted squash, crisp mixed greens, sweet apple, tart cranberries, tangy feta or goat cheese, and crunchy pecans, all tossed in a creamy, citrusy Dijon mustard dressing. This salad is perfect as a light lunch or a festive side dish.
Ingredients
Salad
- 1 recipe Roasted Butternut Squash (about 4 cups roasted squash)
- 8 cups mixed greens
- 1 red apple, diced
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup feta cheese or goat cheese crumbles (omit for vegan)
- 3 tablespoons chopped pecans
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 cup olive oil
Instructions
- Roast the squash: Prepare the roasted butternut squash as per the dedicated recipe. This involves peeling, cubing, seasoning, and roasting the squash until tender and caramelized. It’s best to make this ahead of time and refrigerate the squash, bringing it to room temperature before assembling the salad.
- Make the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, orange zest, honey, and kosher salt until combined. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil one tablespoon at a time, whisking continuously until the dressing emulsifies into a creamy consistency. Refrigerate any leftover dressing and bring to room temperature before serving.
- Assemble the salad: Place the mixed greens on a large platter or individual plates. Evenly distribute the roasted butternut squash, diced red apple, dried cranberries, and cheese crumbles over the greens. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top.
- Dress the salad: Drizzle approximately 6 tablespoons of the prepared dressing over the salad, tossing gently if desired. Serve immediately, refrigerating any leftover dressing separately.
Notes
- The salad can be customized by substituting pecans with walnuts or almonds.
- For a vegan version, omit the cheese and replace honey with maple syrup.
- Make the roasted squash and dressing ahead of time to save on prep time before serving.
- Bring refrigerated components to room temperature before assembling for best flavor.
