Roasted Butternut Squash & Poblano Salad

By Dani Potts | August 11, 2025

Total time: 45 mins, Servings: 4

INGREDIENTS

  • 1 medium butternut squash peeled and sliced into 1×1-inch cubes (about 6 cups total)
  • 5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon. ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon. black pepper
  • 1 poblano pepper seeded and sliced into 2-inch strips
  • 1 tablespoon mild harissa (such as Mina brand) or sub 1.5 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice 
  • 1 grated garlic clove
  • 3/4 cup fresh, canned, or frozen/thawed corn
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 3 tablespoons toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas)

INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Spread the butternut squash evenly on a rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of oil, then sprinkle with ½ teaspoon salt, cumin, and black pepper. Toss to coat, and roast for 20 minutes.
  2. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and add the poblano pepper. Drizzle with a little more oil or spray with cooking spray, then toss to combine with the squash. Return to the oven and roast for an additional 15 minutes, until both the squash and poblano are tender.
  3. While the vegetables roast, whisk together the harissa, lime juice, grated garlic, remaining ¼ teaspoon salt, and 3 tablespoons olive oil in a small bowl to make the Harissa-Lime dressing.
  4. Once the vegetables are done, add the corn to the baking sheet. Toss gently to mix with the warm squash and peppers, allowing the residual heat and spices to infuse the corn.
  5. Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl or platter. Drizzle with the Harissa-Lime dressing and garnish with feta, pumpkin seeds, and fresh mint, if using. For an extra burst of brightness, squeeze fresh lime juice over the top just before serving.

Credit: https://dishingouthealth.com/moroccan-butternut-squash-salad/#wprm-recipe-container-11457

BENEFITS

Butternut squash is a vibrant, nutrient-packed vegetable that offers numerous health benefits. It’s especially rich in vitamin A, in the form of beta-carotene, which supports eye health, immune function, and skin health. It also provides a good amount of vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage and aids in collagen production. With its high fiber content, butternut squash promotes healthy digestion and can help regulate blood sugar levels. Additionally, it contains important minerals like potassium, which supports heart health and helps maintain balanced blood pressure.