Name: Winter Vegetable Salad with Butternut Squash, Brussels Sprouts, and Beets - Enjoy Freshness!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Brussels Sprouts; Butternut Squash; Beets; Pecans; Dried Cranberries

As the chilly air settles in, there’s nothing quite like a hearty and vibrant Winter Vegetable Salad with Butternut Squash, Brussels Sprouts, and Beets to warm your soul. This seasonal dish not only celebrates the rich colors of winter harvest but also brings together an array of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. Imagine the sweet creaminess of roasted butternut squash paired with the earthy crunch of Brussels sprouts and the vibrant hue of roasted beets—what a delightful combination!

Moreover, this winter salad is a powerhouse of nutrients, providing an abundance of vitamins and minerals essential for maintaining your health during the colder months. Combining warmth with freshness, this colorful salad has the potential to become a favorite centerpiece for your dining table. Whether you serve it as a main course or a side dish, each bite promises comfort and satisfaction that keeps you coming back for more.

Why Choose a Winter Vegetable Salad?:

Winter is the perfect season to incorporate hearty vegetables into your meals, and a Winter Vegetable Salad with Butternut Squash, Brussels Sprouts, and Beets is an excellent choice. This delightful salad not only warms the soul but also packs a nutritional punch. Butternut squash brings a sweet creaminess, while roasted Brussels sprouts offer a rich, nutty flavor. Beets add vibrant color and earthiness, making this dish as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Moreover, winter salads can be incredibly versatile. For a well-rounded meal, consider pairing this salad with protein-packed options like crispy air fryer salmon, which can create a satisfying and healthy dinner experience. The balance of flavors not only highlights each ingredient’s uniqueness but also provides a comforting dish amidst the chill outside. Embrace the essence of winter with this nourishing salad, ensuring you’re fueling your body with wholesome goodness while enjoying seasonal produce.

Ingredients for Winter Vegetable Salad with Butternut Squash, Brussels Sprouts, and Beets:

This seasonal delight features earthy vegetables and vibrant flavors, making it perfect for any winter gathering. To create your winter vegetable salad with butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and beets, gather the following ingredients:

1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
2 medium-sized beets (approximately 1 cup), boiled and diced
1/2 cup pecans, toasted
1/2 cup dried cranberries, soaked in boiling water for 5 minutes

This easy recipe melds various textures and tastes. Roasting the Brussels sprouts brings out their nuttiness, while the sweetness of the butternut squash complements the earthy beets beautifully. Toasted pecans add a delightful crunch, and the plumped-up cranberries offer a juicy burst of flavor. For a complete festive meal, consider serving this salad alongside an incredible cranberry pecan chicken salad, which would perfectly round out your dinner table.

How to Prepare Winter Vegetable Salad with Butternut Squash, Brussels Sprouts, and Beets:

To create this vibrant Winter Vegetable Salad with Butternut Squash, Brussels Sprouts, and Beets, begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). First, trim the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half. Toss them in a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, before spreading them on a baking sheet. Roast for about 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy. Meanwhile, peel and cube the butternut squash. Drizzle it with olive oil, season, and roast on a separate baking sheet for 25-30 minutes until tender.

Next, boil fresh beets in water until they are easily pierced with a knife. Once cooled, peel and slice them. For added sweetness, soak dried cranberries in boiling water for about 5 minutes to plump. Finally, toast pecans in a skillet over medium heat until fragrant.

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and drizzle with your favorite vinaigrette. This salad pairs beautifully with dishes like Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad. For a detailed recipe, check out this Winter Vegetable Salad recipe for additional tips. Enjoy this hearty dish!

Nutritional Benefits of Winter Vegetables:

Winter vegetables like butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and beets provide a treasure of health benefits, making them perfect for a vibrant Winter Vegetable Salad with Butternut Squash, Brussels Sprouts, and Beets. Butternut squash is rich in beta-carotene, supporting eye health and bolstering the immune system. Similarly, Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins C and K, which promote strong bones and enhance digestion. Moreover, they contain glucosinolates, compounds that may help reduce the risk of certain cancers.

Beets, with their earthy flavor, offer powerful antioxidants and can aid in lowering blood pressure. Incorporating these nutrient-dense vegetables into your diet also means providing essential fiber for gut health. Additionally, for a refreshing contrast, consider pairing this salad with a light vinaigrette, as seen in the recipe for a delightful Chopped Green Goddess Salad. This creates a satisfying balance, ensuring you stay healthy during the cold months.

Storage Tips for Winter Vegetable Salad with Butternut Squash, Brussels Sprouts, and Beets:

To keep your Winter Vegetable Salad with Butternut Squash, Brussels Sprouts, and Beets fresh, proper storage is essential. First, store any leftover salad in an airtight container to maintain its crispness. Place it in the refrigerator, where it should last up to three days. However, be cautious; the longer it sits, the less crunchy the vegetables may become. If you’re preparing the salad in advance, consider storing the dressing separately. This way, you can add it just before serving, ensuring the veggies remain vibrant and crispy.

For the roasted vegetables, like butternut squash and Brussels sprouts, you might want to keep them in another container to prevent moisture buildup. If you’re looking for a delicious salad variation, try exploring this Chopped Green Goddess Salad for an equally refreshing option. Remember, freshness is key for enjoying the best flavors in your winter salad!

Serving Suggestions for Winter Vegetable Salad with Butternut Squash, Brussels Sprouts, and Beets:

Pair your vibrant winter vegetable salad, featuring butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and beets, with hearty proteins like grilled chicken or baked salmon for a satisfying meal. For an additional crunch, serve it alongside green beans with bacon and garlic. This balance will enhance the earthy notes of the salad while bringing warmth to your winter table.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

What ingredients are essential for a Winter Vegetable Salad with Butternut Squash, Brussels Sprouts, and Beets?

The key ingredients for this seasonal salad include roasted butternut squash, shredded Brussels sprouts, and roasted beets. These vegetables not only provide vibrant color but also rich flavors. You can also enhance the salad with nuts, cheeses, or a light vinaigrette for added taste.

How do I prepare the vegetables for the salad?

Start by peeling and cubing the butternut squash, trimming the Brussels sprouts, and peeling the beets. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting to caramelize their natural sugars and deepen their flavors.

Can I customize the Winter Vegetable Salad?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like grains, cheese, or nuts, which bring texture and flavor. For instance, consider incorporating feta or goat cheese for creaminess or walnuts for crunch.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this hearty salad holds up well when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.

What dressing is recommended for the salad?

A simple balsamic vinaigrette complements the earthy flavors beautifully. Alternatively, a citrus-based dressing can provide a zesty contrast to the roasted vegetables.

How does this salad compare to a lighter option like a Chopped Green Goddess Salad?

While the Winter Vegetable Salad with Butternut Squash, Brussels Sprouts, and Beets is hearty and filling, a Chopped Green Goddess Salad focuses on fresh greens. Each offers a unique taste experience, fitting the season’s bounty.

Explore more deliciously balanced recipes like Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad for fresh ideas on meal additions.

Winter Vegetable Salad with Butternut Squash, Brussels Sprouts, and Beets – Enjoy Freshness!

Total Time: 50
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Winter Vegetable Salad combines the earthy flavors of roasted Brussels sprouts, sweet butternut squash, and vibrant beets, topped with crunchy pecans and dried cranberries for a festive touch.

Ingredients

Brussels Sprouts

Butternut Squash

Beets

Pecans

Dried Cranberries

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet.
Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, then toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on the baking sheet.
Peel and cube the butternut squash, then add it to the baking sheet with the Brussels sprouts.
Roast the Brussels sprouts and butternut squash for about 25 minutes, or until golden and tender.
While the vegetables are roasting, boil the beets until tender, about 20 minutes. Once cooked, let cool, then peel and slice them.
In a separate pan, toast the pecans over medium heat until fragrant.
Once the roasted vegetables have cooled slightly, combine the Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, sliced beets, toasted pecans, and soaked dried cranberries in a large bowl.
Toss the salad gently to mix all the ingredients together before serving.