If you’re craving a hearty, vibrant dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Roasted Vegetable Wheat Berry Winter Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with chewy wheat berries, sweet roasted butternut squash, caramelized red onions, and a pop of dried cranberries, this salad is as satisfying as it is colorful. The tangy, slightly sweet vinaigrette brings every ingredient together, making it an irresistible wintertime favorite that will brighten up any meal with its comforting flavors and textures.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Roasted Vegetable Wheat Berry Winter Salad Recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a key role in the final dish—bringing texture, sweetness, earthiness, and brightness to every bite.
- 2 cups cooked wheat berries: They provide a chewy, nutty base that makes the salad filling and nourishing.
- 1 cup roasted butternut squash: Adds a natural sweetness and creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the wheat berries.
- 1 cup roasted red onion: Offers a subtle caramelized sharpness that enhances the salad’s depth.
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries: These bring a touch of tartness and a delightful chewy burst that brightens the salad.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Acts as the rich, silky base of the dressing, tying all the flavors together.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Adds a crisp acidity that balances the sweetness of the roasted veggies and maple syrup.
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup: A gentle sweetener that complements the earthiness of the squash and the tang in the dressing.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that elevate each ingredient without overpowering them.
How to Make Roasted Vegetable Wheat Berry Winter Salad Recipe
Step 1: Warm the Wheat Berries and Roasted Vegetables
Begin by gently warming your cooked wheat berries along with the roasted butternut squash and red onion. Heating these components helps the flavors meld beautifully and makes the salad comforting on cool days. Warm ingredients also allow the dressing to coat everything evenly and sink into the grains and veggies.
Step 2: Combine Salad Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add your warmed wheat berries, roasted butternut squash, roasted red onions, and dried cranberries. Giving these vibrant ingredients a gentle toss will start the magic of flavor mingling that defines this dish.
Step 3: Whisk the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This tangy and lightly sweet vinaigrette is the secret ingredient that brings brightness and balance to the salad.
Step 4: Toss the Salad
Pour the vinaigrette over the combined salad ingredients and toss gently but thoroughly to ensure every bite is infused with flavor. You can serve this warm for an inviting winter dish or at room temperature for a more relaxed vibe.
How to Serve Roasted Vegetable Wheat Berry Winter Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes takes this salad to the next level. Toasted walnuts or pecans lend a wonderful crunch and earthy notes that wonderfully contrast with the tender wheat berries and vegetables. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme will introduce a fresh aroma and pop of green that enlivens the presentation.
Side Dishes
This salad shines as a satisfying main on its own but pairs beautifully with grilled proteins such as chicken or tofu for a heartier meal. Alternatively, accompany it with a warm soup or crusty artisan bread to round out a cozy winter feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive twist, serve the salad in hollowed-out winter squash bowls or colorful ceramic dishes to highlight its vibrant hues. You can also layer it in a glass trifle dish for a stunning buffet display that invites guests to dig in and enjoy every colorful bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Roasted Vegetable Wheat Berry Winter Salad Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. The flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers even tastier the next day.
Freezing
Because of the fresh texture of the roasted vegetables and vinaigrette, freezing this salad is not recommended. Freezing can cause the vegetables to become mushy and the dressing to separate, affecting the salad’s enjoyable texture and appearance.
Reheating
If you prefer your salad warm, gently reheat individual portions in a microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid overheating to keep the vegetables tender but intact and preserve the salad’s lovely balance of flavors.
FAQs
Can I use other grains instead of wheat berries?
Absolutely! While wheat berries provide a wonderful chewy texture and nutty flavor, you can swap them with farro, barley, or even quinoa for a different but equally delicious result.
How do I roast the vegetables perfectly?
Roast the butternut squash and red onions at 400°F (200°C) for about 25 minutes, tossing halfway through. This ensures they caramelize nicely without drying out, developing that perfect sweetness and tenderness.
Is this salad suitable for vegans?
Yes! This Roasted Vegetable Wheat Berry Winter Salad Recipe is completely vegan, relying on plant-based ingredients and a simple vinaigrette for flavor, making it perfect for anyone following a vegan lifestyle.
Can I make this salad ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! Prepare all components separately in advance, then gently combine and dress the salad right before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.
What other add-ins would be good in this salad?
Feel free to add toasted seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for extra crunch, crumbled feta or goat cheese for creaminess (if not vegan), or fresh chopped herbs like cilantro or basil to customize the flavors to your liking.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Roasted Vegetable Wheat Berry Winter Salad Recipe that brings warmth, color, and comforting flavors to the dreariest winter days. Whether you’re serving it as a main or a side, it’s guaranteed to fill your kitchen with delightful aromas and your belly with satisfaction. I can’t wait for you to make this salad your own and enjoy every wholesome bite with loved ones around the table.
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Roasted Vegetable Wheat Berry Winter Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A wholesome and hearty winter salad combining chewy wheat berries with sweet roasted butternut squash, caramelized red onions, and tangy dried cranberries, all brought together with a bright apple cider vinaigrette. Perfect for a nutritious, vegan-friendly meal that can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked wheat berries
- 1 cup roasted butternut squash
- 1 cup roasted red onion
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Warm wheat berries and vegetables: Gently warm the cooked wheat berries, roasted butternut squash, and roasted red onions in a pan or microwave until heated through to enhance flavors and texture.
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the warmed wheat berries and roasted vegetables along with the dried cranberries.
- Prepare dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until well emulsified.
- Toss salad: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated with the vinaigrette.
- Serve: Serve the salad warm or at room temperature for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Adding chopped walnuts or pecans provides a wonderful crunchy contrast to the chewy wheat berries and tender roasted vegetables.
- This salad can be prepared ahead and tastes even better after flavors meld overnight.
- Use fresh-roasted vegetables for optimal flavor, but you can substitute with high-quality store-bought roasted veggies in a pinch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
