The Spiced Roasted Butternut Squash Salad with Pomegranate, Goat Cheese, and Date Dressing Recipe is a vibrant and flavorful celebration of autumn’s best ingredients. This salad brings together tender, warmly spiced butternut squash cubes, juicy pomegranate seeds bursting with freshness, creamy tangy goat cheese, and a uniquely sweet and tangy date-infused dressing. It’s an ideal dish to brighten up any meal, whether you’re looking for a hearty vegetarian option or a standout side for holiday gatherings that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two photos side by side on a white marbled surface. On the left, a white tray holds raw orange squash cubes sprinkled with black pepper and drizzled with oil, with a woman's hand pouring oil from a yellow bottle. On the right, the same white tray is shown with roasted squash cubes that have turned golden brown with some slightly darker edges, scattered loosely on the tray that has some brown roasted marks. The tray is placed on a dark blue and white checkered cloth. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this salad plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the earthy warmth of the roasted butternut squash spices to the crunchy pistachios and the luscious tang of the dressing, these simple, wholesome components come together beautifully to create something truly special.

Butternut squash: The star of the dish, offering sweet, tender cubes perfect for roasting.
Extra-virgin olive oil: Adds a smooth richness and helps the squash caramelize beautifully in the oven.
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors.
Ground cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cayenne pepper: These spices provide warmth, depth, and just a hint of heat to the roasted squash.
Spring mix greens: A fresh, mild base that balances the rich squash and cheese.
Goat cheese: Creamy and tangy, it adds indulgent texture and brightness to the salad.
Medjool dates: Naturally sweet and chewy, perfect for the dressing and as salad bits.
Pomegranate seeds: Little bursts of juicy freshness and vibrant color.
Pistachios: Toasted and crushed for a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.
Apple cider vinegar and fresh lemon juice: These acidic ingredients brighten the date dressing with lively zing.
Garlic: Adds subtle savory depth to the dressing.
Water: Used to adjust the dressing’s consistency for perfect drizzling.

How to Make Spiced Roasted Butternut Squash Salad with Pomegranate, Goat Cheese, and Date Dressing Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Toss the peeled and cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper until every piece glistens. Spread the cubes evenly on your sheet so they roast to tender, golden perfection with just a little crisp around the edges, about 30 to 35 minutes. This caramelization builds the incredible base flavor for your salad, so don’t rush this step!

Step 2: Prepare the Spice Mix

While the squash roasts, whisk together your warm spices—ground cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and a touch of cayenne pepper. This blend will infuse the squash with a cozy, aromatic kick after roasting, giving the dish a complex yet balanced warmth that’s utterly inviting.

Step 3: Make the Date Dressing

Using a blender, combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, fresh lemon juice, a Medjool date, garlic, ground cumin, and 3 tablespoons of water. Blend until smooth, adding an extra tablespoon or two of water as needed to reach a lovely pourable consistency. Season with sea salt and pepper to taste. This luscious dressing carries sweet, tangy, and savory notes that tie every salad ingredient beautifully together.

Step 4: Toss the Squash with Spices

When your squash is tender and invitingly browned, pull it from the oven and let it cool just enough to handle. Toss the warm cubes in your prepared spice mix so each piece is coated with that gorgeous blend of flavor. The warmth of the squash helps the spices really stick and shine.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, layer your spring mix greens alongside half of the spiced roasted butternut squash. Drizzle with one-third of your date dressing and toss gently, just enough to combine without bruising the leaves. Then add the rest of the squash, crumbled goat cheese, diced dates, pomegranate seeds, and pistachios. Finish with more dressing drizzled on top as you like, and give one last light toss before serving. This colorful, textured salad is ready to dazzle.

How to Serve Spiced Roasted Butternut Squash Salad with Pomegranate, Goat Cheese, and Date Dressing Recipe

A white plate with a decorative rim holds a colorful salad composed of multiple layers. The base layer is mixed leafy greens with different shades of green and purple, adding texture and depth. On top of the greens are bright orange roasted cubes, some with slight charring, scattered evenly. There are small patches of soft white cheese crumbles spread across the salad. Bright red pomegranate seeds dot the dish, adding pops of color. Small pieces of chopped nuts and bits of brown dried fruit are sprinkled throughout, giving a crunchy contrast. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a small white bowl of beige dressing and a silver spoon nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation, sprinkle a few extra pomegranate seeds and crushed pistachios on top just before serving. Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or mint also add a burst of green, a fresh aroma, and a lovely contrast to the warmth of the squash flavors.

Side Dishes

This salad complements so many meals! Pair it with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or as a hearty vegetarian main alongside warm crusty bread. It’s especially delightful as part of a festive holiday spread, where its bright colors and balance of flavors can shine alongside richer dishes.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salad in individual glass bowls so the layers of color are visible, enticing everyone to dig in. Or assemble it on large rustic platters, mixing and matching sprinkle toppings for a more informal, family-style feel. Adding edible flowers or microgreens gives an extra touch of whimsy and elegance for special occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers of this Spiced Roasted Butternut Squash Salad with Pomegranate, Goat Cheese, and Date Dressing Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors may deepen and meld overnight, but it’s best enjoyed within two days to keep the greens crisp and the goat cheese fresh.

Freezing

While the roasted squash alone freezes very well, we don’t recommend freezing the fully assembled salad because the greens and goat cheese do not freeze and thaw well. For freezer-friendly prep, roast and spice the squash ahead and freeze it in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a sealed container. Then thaw and add fresh ingredients when ready to eat.

Reheating

To reheat salad components, gently warm the roasted and spiced butternut squash in the oven or microwave until just heated through. Then combine with fresh greens and dairy, and dress immediately. This preserves the textures and contrasts that make this salad so delightful.

FAQs

Can I use other types of squash for this salad?

Absolutely! While butternut squash is ideal for its sweetness and texture, you can swap in delicata or acorn squash for a slightly different flavor profile. Just roast until tender and follow the same seasoning and assembly steps.

Is this salad suitable for vegan diets?

The salad as written includes goat cheese, which is not vegan. However, you can easily omit the cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative or toasted nuts for creaminess and texture.

How spicy is the cayenne pepper in this salad?

The cayenne is added in a small amount to give a gentle warmth, not heat that overwhelms. You can reduce or omit it if you’re sensitive to spice, but it really helps balance the sweetness and adds depth.

Can I prepare the dressing in advance?

Yes! The cider date dressing can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir or shake before drizzling it over the salad for even flavor distribution.

What’s the best way to toast pistachios?

Toast pistachios in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring often until fragrant and slightly golden. Let cool before crushing to avoid over-toasting.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the way the Spiced Roasted Butternut Squash Salad with Pomegranate, Goat Cheese, and Date Dressing Recipe layers warmth, freshness, and vibrant textures in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight supper or an impressive holiday gathering, this salad brings both comfort and excitement to the table. Give it a try—you’ll find it quickly becoming one of your treasured go-to recipes!

Spiced Roasted Butternut Squash Salad with Pomegranate, Goat Cheese, and Date Dressing Recipe