Ingredients
Method
Preparation & Roasting
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for effortless cleanup.
- Toss diced butternut squash cubes with 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper until evenly coated. Spread in a single layer with space between cubes.
- Roast for 22 to 25 minutes, flipping gently halfway through, until edges are golden caramelized and the squash is fork-tender. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
Cook Fluffy Quinoa
- While squash roasts, rinse quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer under cold water for 30 seconds. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth (or water). Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer gently for 15 minutes until liquid is fully absorbed. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork and spread onto a shallow dish to cool to lukewarm.
Toast Pecans & Whisk Dressing
- In a dry skillet over medium-low heat, toast chopped pecans and pepitas for 3 to 4 minutes, shaking constantly, until nutty and fragrant. Immediately transfer to a small bowl to prevent burning.
- In a small glass jar or bowl, vigorously whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, grated garlic, sea salt, and black pepper until completely emulsified.
Assemble & Serve
- In a large salad bowl, combine the fluffed lukewarm quinoa and baby arugula. Drizzle with half of the maple cider dressing and toss gently until greens are glossed and lightly softened.
- Add the warm roasted butternut squash, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and pumpkin seeds. Drizzle with remaining vinaigrette and toss gently to combine.
- Scatter crumbled feta cheese over top just before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature!
Notes
Meal prep tip: Keep dressing and feta in separate containers if packing lunches. Keeps crisp and vibrant for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.