Roasted Butternut Squash Salad
Roasted Butternut Squash Salad Recipe with Red Wine Vinegar Dressing
Introduction
Roasted Butternut Squash Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for the fall season. The combination of sweet butternut squash, tangy red wine vinegar, and aromatic herbs creates a flavorful and satisfying salad that is sure to impress your guests.
History
The origins of Roasted Butternut Squash Salad are not clear, but it is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region where butternut squash is a popular ingredient in many dishes. This salad has become a favorite among health-conscious individuals looking for a tasty and nutritious meal.
Ingredients
- 1 medium-large butternut squash, seeded and cut into thick 1-inch slices
- salt and pepper
- 8 tbsp of olive oil
- 0.25 cup red wine vinegar
- 0.5 medium red onion, sliced paper thin
- 1 clove of garlic, sliced paper thin
- handful of fresh oregano
- pinch of red chili flakes
How to prepare
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C).
- Season the squash with 4 tbsp of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange the squash in a single layer on a cookie sheet.
- Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
- In a separate bowl, combine 4 tbsp of olive oil, vinegar, onion, garlic, herbs, chili flakes, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
- Once the squash is tender, remove it from the oven and pour the marinade over the hot squash.
- Allow the squash to cool in the marinade for 20 minutes.
- Sprinkle with fresh mint and serve.
- This dish is best served at room temperature.
Variations
- Add roasted chickpeas or quinoa for added protein.
- Top the salad with crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy texture.
- Substitute the red wine vinegar with balsamic vinegar for a sweeter flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to cut the butternut squash into uniform slices to ensure even cooking.
- Roasting the squash at a high temperature helps to caramelize the sugars in the squash, enhancing its natural sweetness.
- Allow the squash to cool in the marinade to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish the salad with fresh mint for a burst of freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Roasted Butternut Squash Salad can be served as a side dish or as a main course. It pairs well with grilled chicken or fish.
Cooking Techniques
Roasting the butternut squash at a high temperature helps to caramelize the sugars in the squash, enhancing its natural sweetness.
Ingredient Substitutions
Substitute butternut squash with acorn squash or sweet potatoes.
- Use apple cider vinegar instead of red wine vinegar.
- Replace fresh oregano with dried oregano.
Make Ahead Tips
Roast the butternut squash ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Prepare the marinade and toss it with the squash just before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the Roasted Butternut Squash Salad on a bed of mixed greens for a colorful and appetizing presentation. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.
Pairing Recommendations
Roasted Butternut Squash Salad pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Roasted Butternut Squash Salad contains approximately 250 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Roasted Butternut Squash Salad contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Roasted Butternut Squash Salad contains approximately 14 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Roasted Butternut Squash Salad contains approximately 2 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Roasted Butternut Squash Salad is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and fiber.
Alergens
This recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free. However, it contains olive oil, which may be an allergen for some individuals.
Summary
Roasted Butternut Squash Salad is a nutritious dish that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for those looking for a healthy and delicious meal.
Summary
Roasted Butternut Squash Salad is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for the fall season. With its sweet and savory flavors, this salad is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a magnet. It was a chilly autumn day and I had just returned from a trip to the farmer's market with a beautiful butternut squash in hand. As I rummaged through my collection of recipes, I came across a worn and stained piece of paper tucked away in an old cookbook.
The title read "Roasted Butternut Squash Salad" and as I read through the ingredients and instructions, I couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia wash over me. I remembered the first time I had tasted this salad, many years ago at a friend's house. It was a simple yet elegant dish, bursting with flavors and textures that I had never experienced before.
I decided then and there that I had to recreate this dish for my family. I gathered the necessary ingredients and got to work in the kitchen, peeling and dicing the butternut squash with care. I drizzled it with olive oil, sprinkled it with salt and pepper, and popped it into the oven to roast until golden and caramelized.
As the squash roasted, I prepared the rest of the salad - a mix of fresh arugula, toasted walnuts, crumbled feta cheese, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. The combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors was a revelation and I couldn't wait for my family to taste it.
When the salad was finally ready, I plated it up and set it on the table with a flourish. My family's eyes widened in delight as they took their first bite, savoring the complex flavors and textures of the dish. It was a hit, and from that day on, Roasted Butternut Squash Salad became a staple in our household.
Over the years, I have made this salad countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my family's tastes. I have shared it with friends and neighbors, who have all raved about its deliciousness. Each time I make it, I am transported back to that chilly autumn day when I first discovered the recipe, and I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the people and places that have enriched my culinary journey.
I have always believed that food has the power to bring people together, to create memories and forge connections that last a lifetime. And Roasted Butternut Squash Salad is a perfect example of this - a simple dish that has brought joy and warmth to my family and friends, and that will continue to do so for generations to come.
So the next time you find yourself with a butternut squash in hand, I urge you to give this recipe a try. Let its flavors transport you to a world of comfort and joy, and may it bring you as much happiness as it has brought me over the years. Bon appétit!