Butternut Squash Caprese Salad

Butternut Squash Caprese Salad is a delightful twist on the classic Caprese salad. This refreshing dish combines the sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the creaminess of avocado and mozzarella. It’s bright, colorful, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a light lunch, this salad is sure to impress.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Butternut Squash Caprese Salad is a great choice for many reasons. First, it brings together nutritious ingredients that are both tasty and healthy. Butternut squash is full of vitamins and minerals, while avocado adds healthy fats. Second, this salad is simple to prepare and can be made in advance. Lastly, it looks beautiful on the plate, making it a wonderful addition to any meal or gathering.

How to Make Butternut Squash Caprese Salad

Ingredients:

2 cups roasted butternut squash cubes (cooled)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 ripe avocado, diced
1 cup mozzarella pearls
Fresh basil leaves, chopped
1 tbsp olive oil
Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
Salt & black pepper, to taste

Directions:

Roast Squash: Toss butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes or until tender. Let cool.
Assemble Salad: In a large bowl, combine roasted squash, cherry tomatoes, avocado, mozzarella, and basil.
Dress: Drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving. Gently toss to combine.
Serve: Enjoy immediately or chill for 15 minutes for a cooler, more refreshing bite.

How to Serve Butternut Squash Caprese Salad

Serve your Butternut Squash Caprese Salad chilled or at room temperature. It can be a lovely starter, a side dish, or even a light main course. Pair it with crusty bread or alongside grilled chicken for a well-rounded meal.

How to Store Butternut Squash Caprese Salad

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to consume the salad within 1-2 days for the freshest taste. If you have leftover dressing, keep it separate to avoid soggy ingredients.

Tips to Make Butternut Squash Caprese Salad

Make sure the butternut squash is cooled before mixing it with the other ingredients to keep the salad fresh.
For a more intense flavor, try using heirloom tomatoes.
Adjust the amount of balsamic glaze based on your taste preference; you can drizzle a little or a lot!

Variation

You can add other ingredients like arugula for a peppery bite or nuts for crunch. Swap mozzarella for feta cheese for a tangy twist. The possibilities are endless!

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just keep the ingredients (especially the avocado) separate until you are ready to serve.

2. What can I substitute for mozzarella?
If you can’t find mozzarella pearls, you can use cubed mozzarella or feta cheese for a different flavor.

3. Is it okay to use frozen butternut squash?
Yes, you can use frozen butternut squash. Just roast it according to the package instructions, making sure to cool it before mixing with the other ingredients.

Enjoy your delicious Butternut Squash Caprese Salad!