Pin It A vibrant, hearty salad featuring sweet roasted beets and butternut squash, fresh baby spinach, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy walnuts, all tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette.
I first made this salad for a family gathering, and it quickly became a favorite. The combination of roasted vegetables with creamy goat cheese and the crunch of walnuts is always a hit.
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Ingredients
- Beets: 2 medium, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- Butternut squash: 1 small (about 1 lb (450 g)), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
- Baby spinach: 5 oz (140 g), washed and dried
- Goat cheese: 4 oz (115 g), crumbled
- Walnuts: ½ cup (60 g), roughly chopped
- Extra-virgin olive oil: 3 tbsp for dressing
- Balsamic vinegar: 1½ tbsp
- Dijon mustard: 1 tsp
- Honey: 1 tsp
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
- Olive oil for roasting: 2 tbsp
- Sea salt: ½ tsp
- Black pepper: ¼ tsp
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Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roast Vegetables:
- Toss beets and butternut squash with 2 tbsp olive oil, ½ tsp sea salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper. Spread evenly on the baking sheet.
- Bake:
- Roast in the oven for 30–35 minutes, turning once halfway, until vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized. Let cool slightly.
- Prepare Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper.
- Combine Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine baby spinach, roasted beets, and butternut squash. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently.
- Finish:
- Transfer salad to a serving platter. Top with crumbled goat cheese and chopped walnuts. Serve immediately.
Pin It 
This salad was a highlight at our last holiday dinner, and my kids enjoyed the bold colors and flavors. It's rewarding to see everyone asking for seconds.
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Required Tools
Baking sheet, parchment paper, large mixing bowl, small whisk or fork, knife and cutting board
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 320, Total Fat: 20 g, Carbohydrates: 27 g, Protein: 9 g
Serving Suggestions
Add grilled chicken or cooked quinoa for extra protein, or pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc for a refreshing dinner.
Pin It 
Enjoy this vibrant salad warm or chilled; it always brightens up any meal with its color and flavor.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do roasting beets and butternut squash affect their flavor?
Roasting caramelizes the natural sugars, enhancing sweetness and adding depth to their earthy flavors.
- → Can I substitute the goat cheese with another cheese?
Yes, feta or a soft ricotta can be used for a similar creamy and tangy element.
- → What is the best way to get crunchy walnuts in the salad?
Toast walnuts lightly in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and crisp before adding them.
- → How should I store leftovers to maintain freshness?
Store salad ingredients separately in airtight containers, then toss together just before serving to keep textures fresh.
- → Is this salad suitable for special diets?
It is vegetarian and gluten-free, but contains nuts and dairy, so consider allergies accordingly.
