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.
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
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.
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.