Name: Delicious Salad with Maple-Lime Dressing for Fall Celebrations
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 medium Butternut Squash (peeled, seeded, and cubed into 1-inch pieces); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or substitute with avocado oil); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 8 oz Bow Tie Pasta (gluten-free pasta substitute is an option); 1 cup Pumpkin Seeds (toasted before adding); 8 oz Baby Spinach (or mixed greens); 4 oz Goat Cheese (or substitute with feta or blue cheese); ½ cup Dried Cranberries (or substitute with pomegranate seeds); ⅓ cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil; 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard; ¼ cup Maple Syrup (or substitute with honey); Lime Juice (freshly squeezed)

As the leaves turn golden and the air fills with crispness, it’s time to embrace the comforting flavors of fall. Enter my Festive Fall Salad with Maple-Lime Dressing—a dish that showcases the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash, creamy goat cheese, and the satisfying crunch of toasted pumpkin seeds. This customizable salad isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s packed with nutritious ingredients that make it a fabulous side for any holiday gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner. With quick prep and vibrant flavors, it’s a sure way to encourage everyone to leave the fast food behind. What seasonal twists will you add to your version of this delightful salad?

Why is this salad perfect for fall?

Vibrant, Seasonal Ingredients: Featuring butternut squash and pumpkin seeds, this salad brings the essence of fall to your table. Sweet and Savory: The maple-lime dressing perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors, elevating each bite. Customization Galore: Feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal veggies or nuts for a personalized touch! Quick Prep: With minimal effort, you’ll have a stunning dish ready in no time—ideal for gatherings or cozy dinners. If you’re looking for more easy crowd-pleasers, check out my Apple Salad Refreshing that pairs wonderfully with this festive delight!

Salad with Maple-Lime Dressing Ingredients

For the Salad

Butternut Squash – Adds natural sweetness and a hearty texture; peel, seed, and cube into 1-inch pieces.
Olive Oil – Perfect for roasting the squash; substitute with avocado oil if desired.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavors; adjust to your taste.
Bow Tie Pasta (8 oz) – Provides bulk and a playful shape; swap for gluten-free pasta if needed.
Pumpkin Seeds (1 cup) – Offers a crunchy texture and nutritional boost; toast before adding for a deeper flavor.
Baby Spinach (8 oz) – Serves as the fresh base for the salad; mixed greens can be a lovely substitute.
Goat Cheese (4 oz) – Delivers creamy richness and a tangy note; feta or blue cheese are great alternatives.
Dried Cranberries (½ cup) – Adds a burst of sweetness and festive flavor; can be replaced with pomegranate seeds for a twist.

For the Dressing

Extra Virgin Olive Oil (⅓ cup) – Acts as the base for the dressing, contributing healthy fats.
Dijon Mustard (2 tablespoons) – Brings a delightful tanginess to the dressing.
Maple Syrup (¼ cup) – Sweetens the dressing; honey may be used as a substitute.
Lime Juice – Freshly squeezed for acidity, balancing the sweetness of the maple syrup.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Festive Fall Salad with Maple-Lime Dressing

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This step is essential for roasting the butternut squash, which will be the star of your Salad with Maple-Lime Dressing, turning it deliciously tender and caramelized.

Step 2: Roast the Butternut Squash
In a mixing bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste. Spread the seasoned squash in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 20-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s fork-tender and golden brown, filling your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Dressing
While the squash is roasting, grab a mason jar to make your vibrant maple-lime dressing. Add the extra virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and freshly squeezed lime juice. Seal the jar tightly and shake vigorously until the ingredients are well combined and emulsified. The dressing should have a creamy consistency and a delightful tang.

Step 4: Cook and Rinse the Pasta
As your butternut squash cools, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process. This will help achieve the right texture for your Fall Salad.

Step 5: Combine the Salad Ingredients
In a large serving bowl, combine the roasted butternut squash, cooked bow tie pasta, toasted pumpkin seeds, and fresh baby spinach. Add the creamy goat cheese and dried cranberries to the mix for bursts of flavor. Gently toss all the ingredients together, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the salad.

Step 6: Drizzle and Serve
Finally, drizzle the homemade maple-lime dressing over the assembled salad. Toss everything gently once more, ensuring that each component is coated with the dressing. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding a sprinkle of salt or pepper. This vibrant Salad with Maple-Lime Dressing is now ready to be served, garnished with fresh thyme leaves for an extra touch.

What to Serve with Festive Fall Salad with Maple-Lime Dressing

Looking to create a cozy feast that perfectly complements the bright flavors of this delightful salad?

Roasted Chicken: Juicy, herb-infused chicken pairs beautifully with the salad’s sweetness, adding heartiness to your meal.
Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty, warm quinoa dish offers a wholesome contrast, enhancing the overall nutritional profile of your spread.
Stuffed Acorn Squash: The sweetness of roasted squash filled with savory grains and spices echoes the flavors in your salad, creating a delightful harmony.
Cranberry Sauce: A tart and sweet sauce brings out the cranberry notes in the salad while adding a festive touch to your table.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots balance the salad’s acidity and contribute vibrant color to your plate.
Chardonnay: This crisp white wine complements the fresh flavors of your salad and enhances the warm notes of the roasted squash.

Your festive fall dinner is almost ready! Each pairing not only enhances the salad but also encourages fond conversations around the table.

Expert Tips for Your Fall Salad

Prep Ahead: Reduce last-minute stress by roasting butternut squash and preparing the maple-lime dressing up to 3 days in advance.
Roasting Method: Always roast butternut squash in a single layer to achieve optimal caramelization and prevent steaming.
Dressing Consistency: If the dressing is too thick, add a splash of water or extra lime juice for desired consistency without losing flavor.
Pasta Timing: Make sure to rinse the bow tie pasta with cold water post-cooking to stop it from cooking further and to prevent sogginess in your salad.
Fresh Is Best: For the best flavor, always use freshly squeezed lime juice in your maple-lime dressing instead of bottled juice.
Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste your salad and adjust seasoning as needed; the perfect balance will enhance the flavors of your festive salad.

Variations & Substitutions for Salad with Maple-Lime Dressing

Feel free to get creative with this salad, letting your taste buds guide you toward delicious customizations!

Sweet Potato Swap: Replace butternut squash with roasted sweet potatoes for a sweeter alternative that brings in vibrant color.
Fruity Addition: Substitute cranberries with diced apples for a refreshing crunch that complements the salad’s flavors beautifully.
Quinoa Twist: Use quinoa instead of bow tie pasta for a gluten-free option that doesn’t skimp on protein and adds a delightful nutty flavor.
Nutty Crunch: Add walnuts or pecans in place of pumpkin seeds for an extra layer of crunch and rich taste—perfect during fall!
Creamy Alternative: Try swapping goat cheese for creamy feta or tangy blue cheese to change the flavor profile and make it your own.
Spicy Kick: If you prefer a bit of heat, toss in some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to spice things up.
Seasonal Veggies: Mix in seasonal veggies like roasted brussels sprouts or beets to amplify the earthy flavors of your salad.
Vegan Option: For a vegan-friendly version, ditch the cheese and replace it with avocado slices or a handful of nutritional yeast for creaminess.

With these variations, your salad can transform into countless versions suited to your palate. For more inspiring combinations, don’t miss my delicious Mexican Corn Salad that fits into any festive occasion!

Storage Tips for Fall Salad with Maple-Lime Dressing

Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. However, note that the salad may become soggy as the dressing sits.

Freezer: While not recommended for freezing due to the texture of the greens and pasta, any leftover roasted butternut squash can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: If you prefer your squash warm, gently reheat it in the oven or microwave before adding to the rest of the salad. Always drizzle fresh dressing over the salad when serving for optimal flavor.

Make-Ahead: You can prepare elements such as roasted squash and the maple-lime dressing up to a week in advance for a quick assembly right before serving.

Make Ahead Options

These Festive Fall Salad with Maple-Lime Dressing components are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a homemade dish without the last-minute rush! You can roast the butternut squash and toast the pumpkin seeds up to 3 days in advance. Simply store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain quality. The maple-lime dressing can be prepared up to a week ahead and kept in the fridge—just give it a shake before using to bring it back to life. When you’re ready to serve, cook the bow tie pasta and combine all the ingredients, drizzling with dressing to ensure every bite is fresh and flavorful. Enjoy a vibrant and delicious salad with minimal effort!

Festive Fall Salad with Maple-Lime Dressing Recipe FAQs

What’s the best way to select butternut squash?
Absolutely! When choosing butternut squash, look for ones that are heavy for their size with a smooth, tan skin. The best squashes will have a slightly dull appearance and should feel firm without any soft spots or dark blemishes. Squashes with too many dark patches may be overripe.

How long can I store leftovers of this salad?
Very! You can store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, keep in mind that the longer it sits, the soggier the salad may become as the dressing permeates the greens.

Can I freeze leftover roasted butternut squash?
Of course! If you have remaining roasted butternut squash, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. To do so, let it cool completely, then spread it out in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze first. Once frozen, transfer the pieces to a freezer-safe container or bag and remove as much air as possible before sealing.

What should I do if my salad ends up too soggy?
No worries! If your salad is soggy, try adding some fresh ingredients to restore texture. Add more spinach or crunchy nuts to balance the moistness. You can also prepare a fresh batch of dressing with less liquid to drizzle on top. For a quick fix, gently toss in additional toasted pumpkin seeds to enhance that delightful crunch!

Can I make this salad gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap out the bow tie pasta for gluten-free pasta or even quinoa if you’re looking for an extra nutritious option. Both alternatives will still give you that satisfying bulk while keeping your dish friendly for those avoiding gluten.

Is this salad pet-friendly?
While most of the ingredients are safe for pets, be cautious with the goat cheese and cranberries. Cheese in moderation is fine for dogs, but too much can upset their stomachs. Cranberries should also be fed in small amounts. It’s always best to check with your vet for specific dietary concerns related to your pets!