Name: Butternut Squash Feta Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 small butternut squash; 1½ Tbsp olive oil (for roasting); ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat); 7 cups arugula; ⅓ cup feta, crumbled; 3 dates, pitted and chopped; ¼ cup walnuts, chopped; ¼ cup dried cranberries; 3 Tbsp olive oil; 3 Tbsp maple syrup; 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice; 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1-2 tsp water (to thin dressing, as needed); ¼ tsp nutmeg; ¼ tsp cumin; ¼ tsp cinnamon; ¼ tsp salt; 1 garlic clove; 1 soaked date, pitted

Jump to Recipe

Hey friend, if you’re craving a salad that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Butternut Squash Feta Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s the perfect blend of roasted sweet butternut squash, tangy feta, crunchy walnuts, and a drizzle of a luscious maple dressing bursting with spices. Every bite sings with vibrant flavors and textures that make this salad stand out from the ordinary. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for a stunning side for dinner, this dish will quickly become a favorite you’ll want to share again and again.

A close-up shows a white oval dish filled with roasted orange butternut squash cubes as the main layer. Scattered on top are small pieces of white cheese and dark brown walnuts, mixed with green arugula leaves adding fresh color. There are also bits of dark red dried cranberries spread evenly across the dish. A golden fork and spoon rest on one side of the plate. The background is a white marbled surface with a floral cloth partially visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Butternut Squash Feta Salad Recipe lies in its simplicity and thoughtful combination of ingredients. Each one plays a vital role—from the natural sweetness of the squash to the zing of fresh lemon and the salty punch of feta—resulting in a harmonious balance that’s as colorful as it is delicious.

Butternut squash (1 small): Roasting this brings out its natural sweetness and soft texture, making the centerpiece of the salad.
Olive oil (1½ Tbsp plus 3 Tbsp for dressing): Adds richness and helps roast the squash to perfection while emulsifying the dressing beautifully.
Salt (½ tsp plus ¼ tsp for dressing): Enhances all the flavors and adds a necessary savory counterpoint.
Black pepper (½ tsp): Gives a gentle heat to balance the sweet and tangy notes.
Cayenne pepper (½ tsp, optional): A little extra kick if you like a subtle spiciness to lift the flavors.
Arugula (7 cups): Peppery and fresh, this green adds brightness and a nice bite as the salad’s base.
Feta cheese (⅓ cup, crumbled): Creamy and tangy, it provides a salty, crumbly finish that contrasts the sweetness of the squash and the dressing.
Dates (3 chopped plus 1 soaked for dressing): Natural sweetness and chewy texture that blend beautifully with nuts and greens.
Walnuts (¼ cup, chopped): Adds crunch and earthy depth that complements the soft squash perfectly.
Dried cranberries (¼ cup): Tart bursts of flavor to brighten up each bite.
Maple syrup (3 Tbsp): The secret touch that harmonizes the dressing’s spices and sweetness.
Fresh lemon juice (1 Tbsp): Offers a zesty tang to cut through the richness and bring freshness.
Apple cider vinegar (2 Tbsp): Adds acidity and balance to the sweet and savory dressing.
Water (1-2 tsp): Used to thin out the dressing for perfect drizzling consistency.
Spices (¼ tsp each of nutmeg, cumin, cinnamon): Warm and aromatic spices that make this dressing truly unforgettable.
Garlic (1 clove): Gives a gentle savory kick that grounds the whole dressing.

How to Make Butternut Squash Feta Salad Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper – this makes clean-up so much easier! Peel your butternut squash and chop it into 1-inch cubes, tossing them in olive oil, salt, pepper, and cayenne if you want a touch of heat. Roast on the prepared sheet for 30 to 40 minutes until the cubes are soft inside and caramelized at the edges. This roasting is what unlocks the deep, sweet flavor that makes the salad so dreamy.

Step 2: Prepare the Maple Dressing

While the squash roasts, whip up the dressing by blending together lemon juice, maple syrup, cumin, cinnamon, salt, pepper, nutmeg, apple cider vinegar, garlic, the soaked date, a bit of water, and olive oil. This dressing is a magical mix of sweet, tangy, and spice that perfectly complements the roasted squash and peppery arugula. Blend until smooth for a velvety finish.

Step 3: Assemble Your Butternut Squash Feta Salad Recipe

Once the squash has cooled just enough to handle, start layering your salad. Lay down a generous bed of fresh arugula, then add the roasted squash cubes. Sprinkle with chopped walnuts, dried cranberries, chopped dates, and finally drizzle your beautiful maple dressing over the top. The finishing touch is the crumbled feta, scattered generously to add creaminess and a salty pop with each bite. Give everything a gentle toss or serve as is for a visually stunning presentation.

How to Serve Butternut Squash Feta Salad Recipe

Butternut Squash Feta Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds or a few fresh herbs like chopped parsley or mint can add an extra layer of texture and freshness. A little extra cracked black pepper on top can also highlight the salad’s spicy undertones wonderfully.

Side Dishes

This salad shines brightly alongside grilled chicken or pan-seared salmon for a well-rounded meal. It’s also perfect as part of a fall-inspired spread with crusty bread and a warm butternut squash soup.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this Butternut Squash Feta Salad Recipe in individual mason jars for a fun picnic or potluck idea. Alternatively, arrange it on a large platter with the ingredients separated in sections so guests can mix their own bowls; it’s a wonderful way to showcase all the vibrant colors and textures.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the salad components separately if possible—keep the dressing in its own jar and the roasted squash and greens in airtight containers. This helps prevent sogginess and keeps everything fresher longer. The salad should last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing

While roasting butternut squash freezes beautifully, freezing the assembled salad is not recommended because the arugula wilts and the dressing can separate. Instead, freeze roasted squash cubes in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months and assemble the salad fresh when ready.

Reheating

To enjoy leftovers, gently warm the roasted squash in a pan or microwave before combining with fresh arugula and cold toppings. Reheat the dressing slightly if it thickened too much in the fridge for a smooth drizzle.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?

Absolutely! While feta adds a distinctive salty creaminess, goat cheese or ricotta salata can be delightful substitutes and offer a slightly different but equally delicious flavor profile.

Is arugula necessary for this salad?

Arugula brings a peppery zest that brightens the dish, but if you prefer a milder green, baby spinach or mixed salad greens work well too.

How do I soak the date for the dressing?

Simply place the pitted date in warm water for about 10 minutes to soften it. This helps it blend smoothly into the dressing and adds natural sweetness without grittiness.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes! Swap out the feta for a plant-based cheese alternative or toasted nuts for the salty bite. Also, be mindful to use maple syrup and other vegan-friendly ingredients.

What’s the best way to cut the butternut squash safely?

Use a sharp chef’s knife and cut off both ends first to create a stable base. Peel with a vegetable peeler, then slice in half lengthwise before chopping into cubes. Take your time and use a sturdy cutting board.

Final Thoughts

I cannot wait for you to try this Butternut Squash Feta Salad Recipe—it’s honestly one of my all-time favorites to share because it feels so special and comforting without being complicated. The blend of sweet, salty, spicy, and crunchy elements brings a fresh twist to salad night that everyone will love. Once you make it, I’m sure it will become a go-to in your kitchen too!

Butternut Squash Feta Salad Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need