Honey-Roasted Butternut w/ Cranberries, Feta & Pumpkin Seeds

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Elevate your autumn dining experience with this delicious Honey-Roasted Butternut Squash Salad. Featuring sweet honey-roasted butternut squash, tart cranberries, creamy feta cheese, and crunchy pumpkin seeds, this vibrant salad is a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-10-21T05:44:52.875Z

A delightful addition to any fall meal or holiday gathering, it’s not only visually stunning but also packed with nutrients to keep you feeling great. Enjoy this seasonal treat and savor the flavors of fall!

The Perfect Fall Dish

As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, there's nothing quite like the comforting warmth of roasted butternut squash. This dish celebrates the essence of fall, combining the rich, sweet flavors of honey-roasted squash with the tangy notes of cranberries. It's not just a salad; it's a celebration of seasonal produce that will impress your guests while also providing a nutritious option for your family dinners.

Moreover, butternut squash is packed with vitamins A and C, making this dish a healthier alternative that doesn't compromise on taste. Each bite bursts with flavor, thanks to the combination of sweet and savory ingredients like feta and pumpkin seeds, turning a humble salad into a gourmet experience.

Balancing Flavors and Textures

One of the standout features of this Honey-Roasted Butternut Squash Salad is its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the roasted squash and honey harmonizes beautifully with the tartness of the cranberries, while the feta's creaminess provides a rich contrast. Every addition enhances the overall experience, making it not only visually appealing but also delightful to the palate.

The crunch of the pumpkin seeds adds an enjoyable texture that complements the soft squash and creamy feta cheese. This engaging mix of textures keeps each bite interesting and satisfying, encouraging everyone at the table to come back for seconds—or even thirds!

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. While the honey-roasted butternut squash serves as the star ingredient, feel free to customize the salad with other favorites. You can add roasted beets for an earthier flavor, or include nuts for added crunch. Seasonal greens like arugula or spinach can also enhance the freshness of the salad, making it suitable for any gathering.

This dish is not only suited for fall but can be enjoyed year-round. Serve it as a side dish during holiday feasts or as a starter for summer barbecues. The combination of vibrant colors and flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser at any occasion.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before preparation.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your salad:

Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Spread the squash evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.

Assemble the Salad

Once the butternut squash is done roasting, allow it to cool slightly. In a large salad bowl, combine the roasted squash, dried cranberries, crumbled feta, and pumpkin seeds.

Serve

Toss gently to combine, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your healthy and delicious honey-roasted butternut salad!

Storage and Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, this salad holds up quite well. Store any remaining roasted butternut squash and salad components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to meld if left for a day, making the leftovers a delicious meal all on their own.

When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat the butternut squash in the oven or microwave. Mix it back into the salad, and you'll have a quick and nutritious meal that requires minimal effort.

Nutritional Benefits

This Honey-Roasted Butternut Squash Salad is more than just delicious; it's also nutritious. Butternut squash is an excellent source of dietary fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, which can help improve digestive health and boost your immune system.

Adding feta cheese introduces protein into the dish, while pumpkin seeds provide healthy fats and additional nutrients like magnesium and zinc. Together, these ingredients create a salad that not only satisfies your hunger but also contributes beneficial nutrients to your diet.

Serving Suggestions

For an elegant dinner party, pair this salad with grilled chicken or a roasted herb-crusted pork tenderloin for a well-rounded meal. The sweetness of the honey-roasted squash beautifully complements savory meats.

Alternatively, for a lighter lunch or vegetarian option, serve it alongside a bowl of creamy tomato soup or a slice of crusty bread. This easy-to-make salad holds its own, making it a delightful addition to any meal plan.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of squash?

Yes, you can substitute other varieties of squash like acorn or delicata.

→ How can I make this salad vegan?

Simply omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.