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Roasted Butternut Squash Salad

Roasted Butternut Squash Salad with Maple Balsamic Dressing

This roasted butternut squash salad features sweet caramelized squash, spicy arugula, tangy radicchio, toasted spiced pumpkin seeds, and a creamy maple balsamic dressing. The perfect fall or winter salad.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course, Salad, Side Dish
Servings 4
Calories 305 kcal

Equipment

  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Vegetable peeler
  • Sharp chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Large baking sheet (unlined)
  • Small skillet
  • Large platter or individual salad bowls
  • Small bowl or jar (for dressing)
  • Whisk

Ingredients
  

For the Roasted Squash:

  • 1 lb butternut squash peeled and cut into quarter moons (about 4 cups)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt

For the Spiced Pumpkin Seeds:

  • 1/2 tsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup raw pumpkin seeds
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground cayenne pepper or ancho pepper for less heat

For the Salad Assembly:

  • 2 cups arugula
  • 1/2 head radicchio cored and sliced
  • 1/2 cup soft cashew cheese or goat cheese
  • 1/2 large apple sliced
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 1 batch Creamy Maple Balsamic Dressing see notes

Creamy Maple Balsamic Dressing (Optional):

  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 small garlic clove minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Do not line the baking sheet with parchment paper; a bare sheet gives better caramelization.
  • Roast the squash: Place the peeled and cut butternut squash on the baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon sea salt. Toss to coat. Spread in a single layer. Roast on the bottom rack for 20 minutes, then carefully flip each piece. Roast for another 10 minutes, until golden brown and caramelized on the edges.
  • Toast the pumpkin seeds: While the squash roasts, heat 1/2 teaspoon olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the raw pumpkin seeds. Toast, stirring constantly, until fragrant and starting to pop, about 2-3 minutes. Add the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and cayenne pepper. Stir to coat, then remove from heat immediately.
  • Prepare the remaining ingredients: Core and slice the radicchio. Slice the apple into thin wedges. Crumble or scoop the cheese.
  • Make the dressing (if using from scratch): In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously until emulsified and creamy. Alternatively, shake all ingredients in a sealed jar.
  • Assemble the salad: On a large platter or in individual bowls, start with a bed of arugula. Layer in the sliced radicchio. Scatter the warm roasted squash over the greens. Add the sliced apple, dried cranberries, and soft cheese. Sprinkle with the toasted spiced pumpkin seeds.
  • Serve: Drizzle generously with the maple balsamic dressing. Serve immediately while the squash is still warm.

Notes

  • Storage: This salad is best served immediately while the squash is warm. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 days – the greens will wilt, but the flavors are still delicious.
  • Meal prep: Roast the squash and toast the seeds up to 3 days in advance. Store separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Assemble with fresh greens when ready to eat.
  • Freezing: Not recommended for the assembled salad. Roasted squash can be frozen on its own for up to 3 months.
  • Substitutions:
    • Squash: Delicata, kabocha, or sweet potato
    • Pumpkin seeds: Sunflower seeds, walnuts, or pecans
    • Cashew cheese: Goat cheese, feta, or shaved Parmesan
    • Apple: Ripe pear
    • Dried cranberries: Raisins, dried cherries, or pomegranate seeds
    • Radicchio: Endive or red cabbage
    • Arugula: Baby spinach or baby kale
  • Spice level: Reduce or omit cayenne for a mild version. Add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
  • Make it a meal: Add shredded rotisserie chicken, roasted chickpeas, or cooked quinoa.
 
Nutrition
  • Serving Size: 1 serving (salad only, without dressing)
  • Calories: 305
  • Fat: 19g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Protein: 8g