Description
Roasted Butternut Squash Caprese Salad
Ingredients
2 cups butternut squash, cubed
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, diced
1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt & pepper to taste
2 tbsp balsamic glaze
Directions
Roast the Butternut Squash:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cubed squash with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and tender.
Combine Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add roasted squash, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, avocado, and fresh basil.
Dress the Salad:
Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and balsamic glaze. Gently toss to coat everything evenly.
Season and Serve:
Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately as a light meal or side dish!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~250 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect salad. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for even roasting. While it heats, peel and cube your butternut squash into uniform, 1-inch pieces to ensure consistent cooking. Toss the cubes thoroughly with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Arrange them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet—this prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through. The squash is done when it’s caramelized at the edges and easily pierced with a fork. Let it cool for 5 minutes before adding to the salad to prevent wilting the other ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad shines in many settings. Serve it warm as a hearty vegetarian main course, or at room temperature as a stunning side dish for grilled chicken or fish. For a festive appetizer, spoon the mixture onto endive leaves or crostini. To make it a more substantial meal, add a protein like grilled shrimp, chickpeas, or shredded rotisserie chicken. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds adds a delightful crunch.
How-to Summary
In summary, this salad comes together in three key stages: roast the squash until tender and golden, combine it with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, avocado, and basil, then finish with a simple drizzle of olive oil and balsamic glaze. The key is gentle tossing to combine the flavors without mashing the avocado.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, but with prep. Roast the squash and store it separately. Chop the veggies and cheese, but only combine and add the avocado and dressing just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
What can I use instead of fresh mozzarella? Feta cheese or creamy goat cheese make excellent substitutes, offering a tangy contrast to the sweet squash.
How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The avocado may brown slightly, and the salad will become more watery.
Can I use a different squash? Absolutely. Acorn squash, delicata squash (which doesn’t need peeling), or sweet potato would all work beautifully with similar roasting times.
Is there a substitute for balsamic glaze? You can make a quick reduction by simmering 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar for 5-7 minutes until syrupy, or use a high-quality aged balsamic vinegar.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls: Cutting the squash unevenly leads to some pieces being mushy while others are undercooked. Adding the avocado too early causes it to become brown and mushy in the salad. Over-tossing after adding the avocado can break it down and muddy the salad’s appearance. Using raw, unroasted squash will result in a hard, flavorless component. Finally, skipping the step of letting the roasted squash cool slightly will wilt the delicate fresh ingredients.
Conclusion
This Roasted Butternut Squash Caprese Salad is a celebration of texture and seasonal flavor. It masterfully combines the warmth of roasted squash with the classic, fresh elements of a traditional Caprese. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that is as nutritious as it is delicious, proving that healthy eating can be deeply satisfying. Give this recipe a try for a meal that feels both comforting and refreshingly light.