Winter Vegetable Salad w/ Roasted Butternut Squash
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Brighten up your winter meals with this vibrant Winter Vegetable Salad featuring sweet roasted butternut squash, crisp greens, and a medley of seasonal vegetables. Perfectly balanced with a tangy dressing, this hearty salad is a delicious way to enjoy nutritious winter produce. Add it to your holiday gatherings or as a wholesome side dish for any occasion!
This Winter Vegetable Salad is not just a visual treat, but also a delightful blend of flavors and textures that’ll keep you warm during those chilly winter months. Roasted butternut squash provides a sweet contrast to the bitter greens, while the dressing ties everything together beautifully.
The Benefits of Winter Vegetables
Winter vegetables are not only hearty and flavorful, but they are also packed with essential nutrients. As the weather gets colder, these vegetables provide a robust source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber that support a healthy immune system. Incorporating winter produce into your meals can help you stay energized and healthy during the chilly months.
Butternut squash, a star ingredient in this salad, is rich in vitamins A and C, which are important for skin health and immune function. Its natural sweetness adds a comforting touch to your dishes, making it a favorite among winter recipes. Paired with other seasonal greens and vegetables, this salad delivers a nutritional punch.
Making the Most of Your Salad
To elevate your Winter Vegetable Salad, consider adding a variety of crunchy textures and flavors. Feel free to mix in additional seasonal vegetables like roasted Brussels sprouts or kale for extra nutrition. You can even toss in some sliced apples or pears to introduce a hint of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the tangy dressing.
Presentation can also enhance the dining experience. Layer the ingredients in a clear serving bowl to showcase the vibrant colors of the salad. This not only makes it visually appealing but also invites your guests to dig in and enjoy the healthy goodness on their plates.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup roasted chickpeas
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a large bowl before serving.
Instructions
Preparation Steps
Roast the Butternut Squash
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, roasted butternut squash, cherry tomatoes, roasted chickpeas, red onion, feta cheese, and sunflower seeds. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to combine.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers of your Winter Vegetable Salad, storing them properly is key to maintaining freshness. Keep the salad and dressing separate until you're ready to enjoy. This prevents the greens from wilting and ensures each bite remains crisp and flavorful.
For best results, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to three days. However, it’s best to consume it within the first couple of days for optimal taste and texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Winter Vegetable Salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. It makes an excellent side dish for roasted meats, such as chicken or pork, enhancing the meal with its earthy flavors and vibrant colors. Alternatively, serve it alongside a warm grain bowl for a hearty vegetarian option.
For a light lunch, enjoy it on its own or with crusty whole-grain bread. The protein from the chickpeas and feta contributes to a fulfilling meal, making it a great choice for midday nourishment.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble just before serving.
→ What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add any seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or shredded carrots.
Winter Vegetable Salad w/ Roasted Butternut Squash
Brighten up your winter meals with this vibrant Winter Vegetable Salad featuring sweet roasted butternut squash, crisp greens, and a medley of seasonal vegetables. Perfectly balanced with a tangy dressing, this hearty salad is a delicious way to enjoy nutritious winter produce. Add it to your holiday gatherings or as a wholesome side dish for any occasion!
Created by: Emma Johnson
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4.0
What You'll Need
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup roasted chickpeas
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, roasted butternut squash, cherry tomatoes, roasted chickpeas, red onion, feta cheese, and sunflower seeds. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to combine.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g