Sweet roasted butternut squash meets crisp greens, tangy feta, and crunchy pecans in a bright, maple-Dijon vinaigrette. Simple, cozy, and perfect for weeknights or holidays.
1.75lbbutternut squash, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
2tbspolive oil, for roasting
1tbsppure maple syrup, for roasting
0.5tspsmoked paprika
1tspkosher saltdivided
0.5tspblack pepperdivided
6cupmixed greens or arugula
0.25cupthinly sliced red onion
0.5cuptoasted pecans, roughly chopped
0.33cupdried cranberries
0.5cupcrumbled feta cheese
0.25cupextra-virgin olive oil, for dressing
2tbspapple cider vinegar
1tspDijon mustard
2tspmaple syrup, for dressing
Instructions
Preparation Steps
Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment.
Toss squash with roasting oil, maple syrup, smoked paprika, 3/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper.
Spread on the sheet and roast 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until browned and tender. Cool 5 minutes.
Whisk dressing oil, cider vinegar, Dijon, and dressing maple with remaining salt and pepper.
Add greens, red onion, pecans, and cranberries to a large bowl.
Add warm squash to the bowl.
Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to coat. Top with feta and serve.
Notes
Variation: Swap pecans for toasted pumpkin seeds and use goat cheese instead of feta. Add sliced pear for extra freshness. Storage: Dress only what you’ll eat; keep components separate up to 3 days and toss before serving.This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Easy Roasted Butternut Squash Salad flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.