Name: Hearty Steak and Roasted Butternut Squash Salad with Balsamic Dressing Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb steak (sirloin, flank, or skirt steak); 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, kale, or arugula); 2 cups roasted butternut squash cubes; ¼ red onion, thinly sliced; ¼ cup crumbled goat cheese or feta; ¼ cup toasted pumpkin seeds or pecans; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 ½ tbsp balsamic vinegar; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp honey or maple syrup; Salt & pepper to taste

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If you have been searching for a satisfying and nutrient-packed meal that feels like a warm autumn hug, the Hearty Steak and Roasted Butternut Squash Salad with Balsamic Dressing Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, juicy slices of steak mingling with caramelized roasted butternut squash, fresh mixed greens, and a tangy, slightly sweet balsamic dressing that ties every ingredient together in the most delightful way. This salad is not only full of vibrant flavors and textures but also wonderfully balanced to keep you both energized and comforted in one beautiful bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows many ingredients arranged neatly on a wooden surface. There is a raw red meat piece in a black tray on the left side. Around it are small bowls with green pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, yellow mustard, olive oil, purple-red sliced onions, bright orange diced squash, and fresh green leafy vegetables in wooden bowls. Also, there are whole garlic cloves, a shallot, yellow squash, white cheese blocks on a white plate, small bowls of garlic paste, salt, black pepper, and herbs. The colors include deep red, bright yellow, green, white, and earthy tones, all placed on a warm wooden background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting this salad right is all about the quality and harmony of each ingredient. The simplicity of these components lets their natural tastes shine, from the earthy sweetness of roasted squash to the rich savoriness of steak and the refreshing zest of balsamic dressing.

1 lb steak (sirloin, flank, or skirt steak): Choose a cut you love for juicy, flavorful protein that steals the show.
4 cups mixed greens (spinach, kale, or arugula): A crisp, leafy foundation that adds freshness and a touch of bitterness.
2 cups roasted butternut squash cubes: Sweet and tender, they bring warmth and color to the plate.
¼ red onion, thinly sliced: Adds a sharp, crunchy bite and beautiful contrast.
¼ cup crumbled goat cheese or feta: Creamy and tangy, this element provides richness and a hint of indulgence.
¼ cup toasted pumpkin seeds or pecans: Offers crunch and a toasty depth of flavor.
3 tbsp olive oil: The base for the dressing and roasting, bringing smoothness and richness.
1 ½ tbsp balsamic vinegar: Sweet acidity that makes the dressing pop and complements the squash’s natural sugars.
1 tsp Dijon mustard: Gives the dressing a mild tang and emulsifying power.
1 tsp honey or maple syrup: Balances the acidity with a gentle sweetness.
Salt & pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance every ingredient’s flavor.

How to Make Hearty Steak and Roasted Butternut Squash Salad with Balsamic Dressing Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with a generous drizzle of olive oil, plus salt and pepper for seasoning. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 20 to 25 minutes until they are golden and tender, offering a caramelized sweetness that will bring this salad to life.

Step 2: Cook the Steak

While the squash roasts, season your steak on both sides with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat and cook the steak about 4 to 6 minutes per side, depending on how thick it is and how you like it cooked. Once done, let it rest for 5 minutes to lock in the juices, then slice thinly against the grain to get those tender, easy-to-eat strips.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, lay down the mixed greens as your base. Top with the warm roasted butternut squash, thinly sliced red onion, juicy steak strips, crumbled goat cheese or feta, and toasted pumpkin seeds or pecans. Each layer adds texture and flavor that makes every bite interesting.

Step 4: Whisk the Balsamic Dressing

In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Whisk vigorously until the dressing is smooth and emulsified. Drizzle it generously over the salad, then toss gently or serve drizzled on top. You can enjoy this salad warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for any meal time.

How to Serve Hearty Steak and Roasted Butternut Squash Salad with Balsamic Dressing Recipe

A white plate holds a colorful salad topped with sliced grilled steak arranged in three layers across the center. The steak is medium-rare with a pinkish-red inside and brown grill marks outside. Around the steak, vibrant layers of mixed greens, halved cherry tomatoes in yellow and red, thinly sliced red onions, and sliced cucumbers spread out evenly. Small dollops of green avocado add a creamy texture, and a dark balsamic glaze is drizzled smoothly over the entire dish, creating a visually appealing contrast. The plate rests on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate this already stunning salad, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary, which pair beautifully with the squash and steak. For an extra punch of flavor, a few chili flakes or a dash of smoked paprika on top can add a warming spice.

Side Dishes

This salad is robust enough to stand alone as a fulfilling meal, but if you want to round out the table, try serving it alongside crusty bread, a warm bowl of soup, or even some garlic roasted potatoes for a cozy autumn dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Hearty Steak and Roasted Butternut Squash Salad with Balsamic Dressing Recipe in individual mason jars for a fun lunch option or build it on a platter for a family-style dinner. Layering the ingredients with the dressing on the side keeps everything crisp until dinnertime.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover salad components separately for best results—roasted squash and steak in airtight containers, mixed greens separately to avoid sogginess. This way, the salad stays fresh and vibrant when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Freezing

For freezing, only the cooked steak and roasted squash are freezer-friendly portions. Keep them in freezer-safe containers or bags, and defrost overnight in the fridge. Fresh greens and dressing should always be prepared fresh to maintain their texture and flavor.

Reheating

Gently reheat the steak and squash in a pan over medium heat until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if you can, to keep the flavors intact and prevent drying out. Then, toss with fresh greens and dressing just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use other types of squash for this salad?

Absolutely! While butternut squash is ideal for its sweetness and texture, you can experiment with delicata, kabocha, or acorn squash. Just adjust roasting times accordingly to get that perfect caramelization.

Is this salad suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check any store-bought dressings or mustard brands if you’re buying pre-made, to ensure no hidden gluten ingredients.

What meat substitutes can I use for a vegetarian version?

To make this salad vegetarian, try grilled portobello mushrooms, marinated tofu, or tempeh for that umami richness. Roasted chickpeas can also add a delightful crunch and protein boost.

How long can leftovers be stored in the fridge?

If properly stored in separate airtight containers, leftovers can last 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Just reassemble with fresh greens and dressing when ready to eat.

Can I make the balsamic dressing ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the balsamic dressing up to 3 days ahead and keep it refrigerated in a sealed jar. Just give it a good shake before drizzling it over your salad.

Final Thoughts

This Hearty Steak and Roasted Butternut Squash Salad with Balsamic Dressing Recipe is one of those dishes that feels incredibly rewarding to make and even better to eat. Its dynamic flavors and textures make each bite a little celebration, and it’s versatile enough for weeknights or special gatherings. I encourage you to try it soon—you may just find your new favorite fall salad that you can come back to time and again.

Hearty Steak and Roasted Butternut Squash Salad with Balsamic Dressing Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need