Honey-Roasted Butternut with Cranberries, Feta & Pumpkin Seeds

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Elevate your fall gatherings with this vibrant Honey-Roasted Butternut salad. Featuring sweet butternut squash drizzled in honey, tart cranberries, creamy feta cheese, and crunchy pumpkin seeds, this dish is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Perfect as a side or a main dish, it captures the essence of autumn while offering a healthy and satisfying option for any meal.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-10-21T05:38:42.425Z

This Honey-Roasted Butternut salad is perfect for showcasing seasonal ingredients while providing a burst of flavor.

Fall Flavor Profile

This Honey-Roasted Butternut with Cranberries, Feta & Pumpkin Seeds salad encapsulates the essence of fall in every bite. The sweetness of roasted butternut squash perfectly complements the tartness of cranberries, creating a harmonious balance that is both refreshing and warming. The addition of creamy feta cheese enhances the dish’s richness, while pumpkin seeds provide delightful crunch. Combined, these elements create a colorful and appetizing dish that highlights the best flavors of the season.

Beyond its taste, this salad is as visually appealing as it is delicious, with warm golden squash contrasting against vibrant cranberries and white feta. This aesthetic quality makes it an ideal centerpiece for your autumn gatherings, inviting your guests to indulge in a truly seasonal experience.

Health Benefits

Aside from its delightful flavors, this dish offers numerous health benefits. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, essential for maintaining healthy skin and immune function. Additionally, it provides a good source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness. Cranberries, known for their antioxidant properties, help support urinary tract health, while feta cheese contributes protein and calcium to your meal.

The inclusion of pumpkin seeds adds a boost of magnesium, zinc, and healthy fats, making this salad not only delicious but also nourishing. These ingredients work harmoniously to create a well-rounded dish that aligns with healthy eating habits, making it a smart choice for your fall menu.

Serving Suggestions

This Honey-Roasted Butternut salad can serve multiple purposes at your gatherings. Enjoy it as a standalone main dish, ideal for vegetarians, or as an enticing side that complements roasted meats like turkey or chicken. Its unique combination of flavors can elevate a casual lunch or add sophistication to a holiday feast.

For a truly memorable experience, consider pairing this salad with a light, crisp white wine to enhance the dish's sweetness and acidity. Adding a touch of balsamic vinaigrette just before serving can also provide a delightful tang, transforming the dish into a gourmet experience that will impress your guests.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
3 tablespoons honey
1 cup cranberries (fresh or dried)
1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to adjust sweetness with honey depending on your preference for tart cranberries.

Instructions

Prepare the Butternut Squash

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet.

Roast and Combine

Roast the squash in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until tender. In a large bowl, combine the roasted squash, cranberries, feta, and pumpkin seeds.

Serve warm or at room temperature as a delightful autumn dish.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers of this delicious Honey-Roasted Butternut salad, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day. However, if you want to maintain the crunchiness of the pumpkin seeds, consider adding them just before serving to ensure they stay crispy.

To reheat the butternut squash and cranberries, place them in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at a low temperature for a more even warmth.

Customizing Your Salad

Feel free to customize this salad based on your preferences or seasonal availability. Substitute the feta cheese with goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative for a different flavor profile. You might also consider adding roasted apples or pears for an extra hint of sweetness that complements the butternut squash beautifully.

For those looking to add more protein, grilled chicken or quinoa can turn this side salad into a hearty main dish. Additionally, experimenting with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can add a lovely warmth, enhancing the autumnal experience of your meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the butternut squash ahead and mix in the remaining ingredients just before serving.