Roasted Turkey and Squash from Sweetgreen features tender, savory turkey paired with roasted, caramelized squash, fresh greens, and a zesty vinaigrette, delivering a nutritious and flavorful autumn-inspired salad.
Equipments
- Oven
- Roasting pan
- Baking sheet
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Salad spinner
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Whisk
- Large serving bowl
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) turkey breast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (e.g., arugula, kale, spring mix)
- 1/4 cup pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- **Vinaigrette:**
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
When preparing the Roasted Turkey and Squash salad, ensure the turkey breast is seasoned evenly with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder for balanced flavor. Use fresh butternut squash, peeled and cubed, to achieve the perfect caramelized texture when roasted with maple syrup. Choosing a mix of nutrient-dense greens such as arugula and kale enhances the salad's autumn-inspired freshness. Toasting pepitas before adding them will bring out their nutty flavor and add a satisfying crunch. Your recreated Roasted Turkey + Squash from Sweetgreen offers a delicious, wholesome meal that mirrors the original's savory and sweet harmony.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat turkey breast dry with paper towels.
- Rub turkey with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.
- Place turkey breast on roasting pan.
- Roast turkey in oven for 25-30 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Meanwhile, toss butternut squash cubes with 1 tablespoon maple syrup, a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread squash on a baking sheet.
- Roast squash in oven for 20-25 minutes until caramelized and tender.
- Remove turkey from oven and let rest for 10 minutes, then slice.
- Rinse and dry salad greens in a salad spinner.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together vinaigrette ingredients: 3 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon honey, salt, and pepper.
- Toss salad greens with vinaigrette in a large serving bowl.
- Top greens with sliced roasted turkey, roasted squash, pepitas, crumbled goat cheese, and dried cranberries.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Roasted Turkey and Squash from Sweetgreen copycat menu offers a balanced blend of savory protein and sweet, caramelized vegetables with fresh greens. If turkey breast is unavailable, you can substitute with chicken breast or firm tofu for a vegetarian option. When prepping the squash, butternut can be replaced with acorn or kabocha squash to maintain a similar texture and sweetness. Your vinaigrette can be customized by swapping apple cider vinegar for balsamic or white wine vinegar without losing the zesty tang. To toast pepitas, use a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Tips
Make sure to use a meat thermometer to check the turkey's internal temperature, aiming for 165degF (74degC) to ensure it's fully cooked and safe to eat. Let the turkey rest for at least 10 minutes after roasting to allow juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender. When roasting the butternut squash, spread the cubes evenly on the baking sheet for consistent caramelization and avoid overcrowding. Whisk the vinaigrette ingredients thoroughly to blend flavors before tossing with your mixed greens for an even, vibrant salad taste.
Nutritions
Roasted Turkey and Squash from Sweetgreen provides a well-balanced meal rich in protein from the turkey breast, essential for muscle repair and satiety. The roasted butternut squash offers complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber, supporting digestive health and sustained energy release. Mixed greens contribute antioxidants, vitamins A and C, while pepitas add healthy fats, magnesium, and zinc. Your salad is enhanced by the vinaigrette's olive oil, a source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that aid nutrient absorption.
Storage
Store leftover roasted turkey and squash in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss. Keep the mixed salad greens and vinaigrette separate to avoid wilting and add the dressing just before serving. Your salad components will stay flavorful and safe to eat for up to 3 days when properly refrigerated.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap turkey breast with skinless chicken thighs for a juicier texture and richer flavor. Roasting butternut squash with a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cinnamon enhances the autumnal taste profile. For a dairy-free option, replace goat cheese with avocado slices or toasted nuts to maintain creamy texture and add healthy fats. Consider marinating the turkey in the vinaigrette mixture for 30 minutes before roasting to infuse bold, zesty flavors directly into the meat.
Allergies
You should be aware that the Roasted Turkey and Squash salad contains common allergens such as goat cheese, which may trigger dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. The pepitas (pumpkin seeds) and mustard in the vinaigrette could also cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to nuts or seeds. Always check ingredient labels and consult with your healthcare provider if you have known food allergies.
Why this recipe?
Roasted Turkey + Squash from Sweetgreen combines lean protein with nutrient-rich winter squash, creating a balanced meal that supports muscle health and boosts immunity. The dish features a harmonious blend of savory roasted turkey and subtly sweet squash, delivering satisfying flavors with minimal calories. Its fresh, wholesome ingredients align with clean eating trends, appealing to health-conscious consumers seeking convenient, delicious options. You'll appreciate the ease of replicating this nutritious menu at home, saving money while customizing the flavors to your preference.