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Roasted Acorn and Delicata Squash Salad

This roasted acorn and delicata squash salad is a sophisticated vegetarian dish that celebrates the natural sweetness of autumnal vegetables. The combination of tender roasted squash and peppery rocket provides a wonderful contrast in textures, while the wheat berries add a nutty, satisfying bite. It is a vibrant, colourful plate that works beautifully as a standalone lunch or a striking side dish for a weekend gathering.

Prepared with aged goat's cheese and spiced pumpkin seeds, this recipe offers a complex balance of creamy and crunchy elements. The unpasteurised apple cider vinegar dressing cuts through the richness of the cheese, making it a healthy yet indulgent option. It is an excellent choice for those seeking a nutritious, high-fibre meal that does not compromise on savoury flavour or visual appeal.

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Ingredients for Roasted Acorn and Delicata Squash Salad

  • 1 medium acorn squash (675g), quartered lengthwise, seeded, cut into 1/3" slices

  • 1 medium delicata squash (450g), halved lengthwise, seeded, cut into 1/3" slices

  • 2 tablespoons plus 60ml extra-virgin olive oil, divided

  • sea salt

  • freshly ground black pepper

  • 20ml unpasteurized apple cider vinegar

  • 120ml cooked wheat berries, drained, cooled

  • 60g small red or green mustard leaves (about 4 cups, loosely packed)

  • 60g rocket leaves (about 4 cups, loosely packed)

  • 30g thinly sliced red pearl onions or shallots

  • 110g aged goat cheese, rind removed, shaved

  • 35g Spiced Pumpkin Seeds

Preheat oven to 400°. Line 2 rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper. Place acorn squash slices on 1 tray and sliced delicata on the other. Toss each with 1 tablespoon oil, 1/4 teaspoons salt, and a pinch of pepper.

Place in oven and roast for 30 minutes; flip squash, rotate the trays, and roast for another 10-15 minutes or until just beginning to brown. Remove from oven and set aside to cool.

Whisk vinegar, 60ml oil, 1/4 teaspoons salt, and pepper to taste in a bowl; stir in wheat berries.

Spread half of greens over a serving platter or bottom of a wide bowl, then add half of acorn squash, delicata squash, pearl onions, goat cheese, and pumpkin seeds. Drizzle with half of dressing; repeat with remaining ingredients and dressing. Toss lightly; serve immediately.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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