Costco Butternut Squash And Raisin Salad Recipes

Cynthia May

2 min read

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20-01-2025

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Costco's bulk offerings are a godsend for those who love to cook – and for those who want to save money. But sometimes, that bulk can feel overwhelming. What to do with a massive butternut squash? This blog post provides some delicious and easy recipes to transform that Costco-sized butternut squash into a delightful and healthy salad incorporating the sweetness of raisins.

Why This Salad is a Winner

This salad isn't just about using up leftovers; it's about creating a flavorful and satisfying meal. The combination of sweet butternut squash, tart raisins, and your choice of additional ingredients is a culinary delight. It's also incredibly versatile: easily adjusted to suit various dietary needs and preferences.

Health Benefits Galore

Butternut squash is packed with nutrients, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and potassium. Raisins, while containing sugar, offer iron and fiber. The addition of other vegetables and nuts further enhances the nutritional profile, making this a healthy and hearty option.

Recipe Variations: From Simple to Sophisticated

Here are a few variations to inspire your culinary creativity:

Simple Butternut Squash and Raisin Salad

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked and cubed butternut squash (from your Costco haul!)
• ½ cup raisins
• ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
2. Toss gently to combine.
3. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

This is a great base recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Elevated Butternut Squash and Raisin Salad with Feta and Herbs

Ingredients:

• All ingredients from the Simple Salad recipe
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or mint

Instructions:

1. Follow the instructions for the Simple Salad.
2. Stir in the feta cheese and fresh herbs just before serving.

The feta adds a salty, tangy element that complements the sweetness of the squash and raisins beautifully.

Hearty Butternut Squash and Raisin Salad with Quinoa

Ingredients:

• All ingredients from the Simple Salad recipe
• ½ cup cooked quinoa
• ½ cup dried cranberries (optional, for added sweetness and texture)

Instructions:

1. Follow the instructions for the Simple Salad.
2. Stir in the cooked quinoa and cranberries (if using).

Adding quinoa transforms this salad into a more substantial and protein-rich meal.

Tips for Success

• Roast the butternut squash: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the squash. Toss cubed squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet salad, reduce the amount of raisins or add a squeeze of lemon juice.
• Get creative with additions: Feel free to experiment with other ingredients, such as apples, oranges, different nuts, or seeds.

With a little creativity, your Costco butternut squash can become the star of a delicious and versatile salad. Enjoy!