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Festive Butternut Squash and Chestnut Salad with Sage Dressing
Original recipe: 4 servings · Prep: 15 min · Cook: 25 min · Total: 40 min
By TinyTummyTreats Editorial TeamPublished May 4, 2026 | Updated May 11, 2026
International
40 mins
easy-to-makevegetable-basedsoft-texturebalanced-nutritionquick-preplunchbox-friendlymake-aheadfinger-food-friendlybudget-friendlyseasonalfestive
Festive Butternut Squash and Chestnut Salad with Sage Dressing with measured ingredients, 40-minute timing, 4-serving yield, and step-by-step instructions for toddler meals, snacks, and family cooking guidance.
Prep
15 min
Cook
25 min
Total
40 min
Servings
4
Difficulty
easy
Cuisine
International
Ingredients
Servings
4
- 1 medium (about 600g) butternut squash
- 150g cooked chestnuts
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 6 leaves fresh sage leaves
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 tsp maple syrup
- a pinch salt
- a pinch ground black pepper
- 50g baby spinach leaves
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees C (390 degrees F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
-
Toss the diced butternut squash with a small drizzle of olive oil and spread evenly on the baking tray.
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Roast the squash for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway, until soft and slightly caramelized, perfect for soft finger food.
-
While the squash roasts, prepare the sage dressing by whisking together 2 teaspoons olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, finely chopped sage leaves, and a pinch of salt and pepper if using.
-
In a large bowl, combine the roasted butternut squash, chopped chestnuts, and baby spinach.
-
Pour the sage dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
-
Allow the salad to cool to room temperature before serving to toddlers.
-
For make-ahead convenience, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Serve cold or at room temperature for a quick, nutritious snack or lunchbox addition.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make Festive Butternut Squash and Chestnut Salad with Sage Dressing ahead?
- Yes. Prepare the recipe ahead, cool it completely, and store portions airtight so they are ready for quick toddler snacks or meals.
- How do I keep the texture toddler-friendly?
- Keep pieces or spoonfuls small, avoid overcooking, and serve with a soft side if the texture feels dry or sticky for your child's chewing stage.
- Can ingredients be swapped for allergies?
- Yes. Use safe substitutes for your child's needs and check labels for common cross-contact risks before serving.
- What should I serve with it?
- Pair it with a protein, soft fruit, or cooked vegetable to make the snack or meal more balanced for little appetites.
Ingredient Replacements
- medium (about 600g) butternut squash: Swap with a toddler-safe alternative that keeps a similar moisture level and soft bite, then adjust water or cook time a little if the mixture feels dry or loose.
- g cooked chestnuts: Swap with a toddler-safe alternative that keeps a similar moisture level and soft bite, then adjust water or cook time a little if the mixture feels dry or loose.
- tsp olive oil: Swap with a toddler-safe alternative that keeps a similar moisture level and soft bite, then adjust water or cook time a little if the mixture feels dry or loose.
- leaves fresh sage leaves: Swap with a toddler-safe alternative that keeps a similar moisture level and soft bite, then adjust water or cook time a little if the mixture feels dry or loose.
- tsp apple cider vinegar: Swap with a toddler-safe alternative that keeps a similar moisture level and soft bite, then adjust water or cook time a little if the mixture feels dry or loose.
Storage
Cool Festive Butternut Squash and Chestnut Salad with Sage Dressing completely, then store portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freeze extras when practical, thaw before serving, and reheat gently only when a warmer, softer bite is helpful.
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