Winter Vegetable Salad w/ Roasted Butternut Squash

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Elevate your holiday gatherings with this vibrant Winter Vegetable Salad featuring roasted butternut squash, crisp greens, and a medley of seasonal veggies. Drizzled with a zesty vinaigrette, this colorful dish is both nutritious and delicious, making it a perfect addition to your turkey veggie tray. Enjoy the warm flavors of winter while adding a festive touch to your table!

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2025-10-23T01:33:01.670Z

This Winter Vegetable Salad is a delightful way to incorporate seasonal produce into your meals. The roasted butternut squash adds a warm sweetness that complements the freshness of the greens and veggies.

Nutritional Benefits of Winter Vegetables

Winter vegetables, such as butternut squash, are packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Rich in vitamins A and C, these veggies contribute to a strong immune system, especially during the colder months. Butternut squash also offers a good amount of fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.

Combining these vegetables with mixed greens and other seasonal produce enhances their nutritional profile even further. The inclusion of nuts adds healthy fats and protein, making this salad a satisfying option for any meal. Eating a variety of winter vegetables not only boosts your health but also introduces exciting flavors and textures to your plate.

The Perfect Holiday Side Dish

This Winter Vegetable Salad w/ Roasted Butternut Squash is not just another side dish; it’s a celebration of seasonal flavors. Its vibrant colors and contrasting textures make it highly appealing, providing a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Whether served at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any other gathering, this salad complements rich dishes perfectly.

The simple yet flavorful vinaigrette ties the ingredients together, enhancing the natural tastes without overwhelming them. Plus, it's easy to prepare, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company of family and friends rather than fussing over complicated recipes during the busy holiday season.

Customization Options

This salad is highly customizable, allowing you to mix and match ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Feel free to swap butternut squash with other roasted vegetables such as sweet potatoes or carrots. Adding seasonal fruits like pomegranate seeds can provide an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.

Additionally, the nut choice can vary – if you prefer pecans over walnuts, go for it! You can also make this dish vegan by leaving out cheese or substituting it with a plant-based option. Such flexibility means this salad can be adapted for various dietary needs while still being a colorful and nutritious option.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

4 cups mixed greens
2 cups roasted butternut squash, cubed
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup sliced cucumbers
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup nuts (walnuts or pecans), chopped

Vinaigrette Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

All ingredients should be fresh for best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Butternut Squash

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and cube the butternut squash, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.

Make the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until combined.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, roasted butternut squash, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, feta cheese, and nuts. Drizzle with the vinaigrette and toss gently to combine.

Serve immediately or chill for later use.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this vibrant winter salad with grilled chicken or roasted turkey for a wholesome, balanced meal. Its fresh, crisp flavors serve as a great contrast to rich main dishes, creating a well-rounded dining experience. You can also serve it as a standalone dish for a light lunch alongside a warm cup of soup.

For an elegant presentation, consider layering the salad ingredients in a clear glass bowl or individual serving cups. This visually appealing method not only enhances the dining experience but also encourages guests to dig in and enjoy the refreshing flavors of winter vegetables.

Storage and Preparation Tips

To keep your salad fresh, it’s best to store the vinaigrette separately from the salad ingredients. Combine them just before serving to maintain the crispness of the greens and the delightful texture of the roasted squash. If you need to prepare the salad in advance, consider mixing the ingredients that hold up well, such as squash, nuts, and cheese, while keeping the greens in a separate container.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just give it a quick toss before serving again, and you might find that the flavors have melded beautifully, creating an even tastier dish on the second day.

Why Seasonal Cooking Matters

Choosing seasonal ingredients not only supports local farmers but also helps to ensure that your meals are fresh and flavorful. Foods harvested in their right season are often more nutritious and vibrant in color and taste. By incorporating seasonal vegetables like butternut squash into your meals, you can take advantage of peak flavors while also fostering a more sustainable food system.

In addition, seasonal cooking brings a sense of variety to your dining experience. With each season, you can explore new ingredients and recipes that highlight what nature has to offer, ensuring that meals remain exciting and diverse throughout the year.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and toss them together just before serving.