Roasted Butternut Squash Salad with Bacon and Onions

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This roasted butternut squash salad is the ultimate blend of hearty fall flavors. The tender squash, crisp bacon, and caramelized onions combine perfectly with the crunch of toasted pecans and a drizzle of sweet maple syrup. This salad is a delicious balance of savory and sweet, ideal for a cozy autumn evening or holiday gathering.

Not only does this dish capture the essence of fall with its warm, comforting ingredients, but it also offers a beautiful presentation with vibrant orange squash, crisp romaine lettuce, and golden pecans. It’s a great option for those seeking a gluten-free side or a light main course. Enjoy it warm, straight from the skillet, for the best flavor experience.

Full Recipe:

1 medium butternut squash, halved and seeded

1 tablespoon olive oil
6 slices bacon
1 cup sliced onion

8 cups chopped romaine lettuce
⅓ cup pecans, toasted and chopped
⅓ cup raisins

2 tablespoons maple syrup

Directions:

Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).

Brush the cut sides of the butternut squash with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for about 20 minutes or until softened.
Let squash cool, then remove the skin and cut into cubes.
Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Sauté onions in the bacon grease for 2-3 minutes, then add the cubed squash and cook until the onions are caramelized.
In a large bowl, combine romaine lettuce, crumbled bacon, pecans, raisins, and the butternut squash-onion mixture.
Drizzle with maple syrup and toss everything together. Serve warm.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 197 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Roasted Butternut Squash Salad with Bacon and Onions: A Perfect Blend of Autumn Flavors

As the crisp autumn air sets in, our cravings naturally shift toward comforting, hearty meals that reflect the vibrant colors and robust flavors of the season. One dish that truly embodies these characteristics is the Roasted Butternut Squash Salad with Bacon and Onions. This salad marries the warmth and tenderness of roasted butternut squash with the savory crunch of bacon and the subtle sweetness of caramelized onions, all drizzled with a touch of maple syrup. It’s a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and nutty, making it a stand-out dish for fall gatherings, family dinners, or even as a flavorful lunch option.

The Flavors at Play

The magic of this salad lies in its combination of simple, wholesome ingredients that offer contrasting yet complementary flavors:

Butternut Squash: Roasting butternut squash caramelizes its natural sugars, enhancing its inherent sweetness and creating a soft, velvety texture. This adds a depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with both sweet and savory components.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds an irresistible saltiness and crunch to the dish, providing a perfect counterbalance to the sweetness of the squash and maple syrup. Its rich, smoky flavor elevates the overall complexity of the salad.
Caramelized Onions: Sautéing onions in bacon grease gives them a delicate, caramelized flavor with just a hint of sweetness. This adds a layer of savory richness to the salad.

Romaine Lettuce: The crisp, refreshing bite of romaine lettuce acts as a fresh contrast to the warm ingredients. It provides texture and a cooling effect, balancing out the richness of the bacon and the sweetness of the squash.
Pecans: Toasted pecans offer a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the earthy sweetness of the squash. Pecans are often used in fall recipes for their buttery texture and subtle sweetness.
Maple Syrup: A drizzle of maple syrup ties all the flavors together, adding a touch of sweetness without overpowering the savory elements. It’s a quintessential autumn ingredient that enhances the natural flavors of the roasted vegetables.

Nutritional Value and Health Benefits

Despite being a comfort food, this roasted butternut squash salad is packed with nutritional benefits, making it a healthy addition to your fall menu. Let’s break down some of the key components:

Butternut Squash: This autumn favorite is rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber. The high fiber content aids digestion, while the beta-carotene in butternut squash promotes eye health and boosts the immune system. Butternut squash is also low in calories, making it a great option for those looking to enjoy a hearty meal without too many extra calories.
Bacon: While bacon is often considered indulgent, when used in moderation, it can add valuable protein and healthy fats to a meal. Additionally, many opt for nitrate-free or leaner cuts of bacon, which can reduce its impact on health.

Onions: Onions are packed with antioxidants, particularly quercetin, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. They are also a good source of vitamin C and may contribute to heart health.
Pecans: Pecans are a great source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. They also contain magnesium, which is known for its anti-inflammatory benefits, and they support heart health due to their rich antioxidant content.
Romaine Lettuce: This leafy green is low in calories but high in vitamins A, C, and K. It’s also a good source of folate, which is essential for cell health. Adding greens to this salad boosts its fiber content while offering additional nutrients.

Maple Syrup: Although it is a sweetener, maple syrup has a lower glycemic index than regular sugar, meaning it won’t cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. It also contains small amounts of minerals like manganese and zinc.

This salad is not only delicious but also nutritious, providing a range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health.

Perfect Pairings

The versatility of this Roasted Butternut Squash Salad makes it an excellent side dish or a standalone meal. If you’re serving it as part of a larger spread, here are some fantastic pairing suggestions:

Roast Chicken or Turkey: The earthy flavors of roasted poultry complement the sweetness of the butternut squash and the richness of the bacon. This combination is perfect for Thanksgiving or any fall feast.
Grilled Salmon: The buttery, rich flavor of grilled or baked salmon pairs well with the nutty sweetness of the salad, offering a balanced meal rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.
Grain Bowls: Serve this salad over a bed of quinoa, farro, or couscous for a heartier, more filling dish. The added grains provide additional fiber and texture, making it a satisfying lunch or dinner option.

Cheese Pairing: A crumble of feta, goat cheese, or blue cheese adds a creamy, tangy element to the salad. These cheeses work well with both the sweet and savory components of the dish, providing a delightful contrast in flavors.
Wine Pairing: If you’re looking to enjoy a glass of wine with your meal, opt for a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir. These wines offer acidity that cuts through the richness of the bacon and maple syrup, while complementing the sweetness of the squash.

Variations and Customization

One of the best things about this Roasted Butternut Squash Salad is its adaptability. You can easily customize it based on dietary preferences or available ingredients:

Vegetarian Option: To make this salad vegetarian-friendly, simply omit the bacon or use a plant-based alternative. Vegan bacon or tempeh can offer a similar texture and smoky flavor.
Add Grains: For a more substantial meal, consider adding cooked quinoa, farro, or wild rice to the salad. This not only increases the fiber and protein content but also makes the dish more filling.
Additional Veggies: You can add other fall vegetables like roasted Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, or carrots to bulk up the salad and add more color and texture.

Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs like thyme, sage, or rosemary pair beautifully with the roasted butternut squash and bacon. You can also add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the squash before roasting for extra warmth and spice.
Dressing Variations: While maple syrup adds a lovely sweetness, you can mix things up by preparing a maple-balsamic vinaigrette or honey mustard dressing for a tangier flavor profile.

Why This Salad Is a Must-Try

There are plenty of reasons why this Roasted Butternut Squash Salad with Bacon and Onions should be on your fall recipe rotation:

Seasonal Ingredients: This dish highlights the best of fall produce, with butternut squash, onions, and pecans at the forefront. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the season’s bounty in a fresh, vibrant salad.
Texture Contrast: The combination of crispy bacon, tender roasted squash, crunchy pecans, and crisp romaine lettuce ensures that every bite offers a variety of textures, keeping the salad exciting and satisfying.
Sweet and Savory Balance: The interplay of sweet and savory flavors is what makes this salad truly stand out. The sweetness of the squash, maple syrup, and raisins is balanced by the salty bacon and caramelized onions, creating a harmonious dish that delights the palate.

Easy to Prepare: Despite its complex flavor profile, this salad is relatively easy to prepare and can be made in under an hour. It’s an excellent option for busy weeknights or as a last-minute side dish for a dinner party.

Conclusion

In summary, this Roasted Butternut Squash Salad with Bacon and Onions is more than just a salad—it’s a celebration of fall’s most beloved flavors. It’s a versatile dish that can be served warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for family meals, potlucks, or holiday gatherings. The combination of roasted squash, crispy bacon, and sweet caramelized onions, all tied together with a drizzle of maple syrup, is simply irresistible. Whether you enjoy it as a light main course or a flavorful side, this salad is sure to impress with its balance of textures, flavors, and nutritional benefits.

This dish not only reflects the heartiness of fall produce but also offers a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy a healthy, nutrient-rich meal. It’s the kind of recipe that you’ll want to return to year after year, as the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp.