If you’re on the lookout for a dish that bursts with vibrant colors, exciting textures, and layers of fresh, wholesome flavors, you’ll absolutely love this Wholesome Grain Salad with Butternut Squash, Pomegranate, and Feta Recipe. It’s a dazzling medley of nutty grains, sweet roasted squash, tangy pomegranate seeds, and creamy feta, all tied together with a zesty, honey-mustard dressing. Whether you need a nourishing lunch or a stunning side dish for your next gathering, this salad checks every box for taste, nutrition, and visual appeal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl holds a salad with three main layers: a bright green bed of fresh arugula leaves forms the base, topped with orange, roasted sweet potato cubes scattered evenly, and dark purple-black rice covering about a third of the top, next to a portion of light brown cooked farro grains. Surrounding the bowl on a white marbled surface are four small white bowls: one filled with shiny deep red pomegranate seeds, another with fluffy white quinoa, a third holding soft white cheese, and the last containing pale pine nuts. The setting is bright and natural, arranged for a clean and healthy look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

What makes this Wholesome Grain Salad with Butternut Squash, Pomegranate, and Feta Recipe truly shine is its simplicity paired with thoughtful ingredient choices. Each one plays a crucial role—from the rich creaminess of feta to the nutty chew of three grains and the juicy pop of pomegranate seeds creating a harmony of flavors and textures that feels both fresh and comforting.

Butternut squash, ½ diced: Roasting brings out its natural sweetness and silky texture.
Cooked quinoa, ½ cup: A light, fluffy grain adding protein and a mild nutty flavor.
Cooked farro, ½ cup: Adds a hearty, chewy bite with a satisfying earthiness.
Cooked black rice, ½ cup: Provides color depth and a slightly chewy texture to contrast the other grains.
Arugula (rocket), 3 cups: Peppery greens that brighten the salad with fresh, slightly bitter notes.
Pomegranate seeds, ¼ cup: Little bursts of juicy sweetness and beautiful visual sparkle.
Pine nuts, ¼ cup: Toasted for a buttery crunch that complements the softness of grains and cheese.
Feta cheese, 3.5 oz: Creamy and tangy, it brings a salty richness that balances the sweetness.
Honey, 1 tablespoon: Sweetens the dressing naturally, harmonizing all the flavors.
Wholegrain mustard, ½ tablespoon: Adds a rustic, textured kick to the dressing.
Dijon mustard, ½ tablespoon: Provides smooth, sharp heat that cuts through the richness.
Lemon juice, 1 tablespoon: Brings brightness and freshness to the dressing.
Olive oil, 3 tablespoons: Rich and fruity, it melds the dressing ingredients together beautifully.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors in the salad.

How to Make Wholesome Grain Salad with Butternut Squash, Pomegranate, and Feta Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced butternut squash lightly in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread it out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for about 25–30 minutes until the squash is golden and tender. This step unlocks the natural sweetness and gives the squash a lovely caramelized flavor that anchors the salad.

Step 2: Prepare the Grains

While the squash roasts, cook your quinoa, farro, and black rice separately if you haven’t prepared them ahead of time. Each grain brings its own texture and earthiness to the salad. Once cooked, fluff each grain with a fork and set them aside to cool slightly. Using a trio of grains ensures a complex body and satisfying chew.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, wholegrain mustard, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. The sweet and tangy flavors here will perfectly complement the savory grains and fruity pomegranate seeds. This dressing is simple, yet it acts like glue, bringing all elements together harmoniously.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the arugula, cooled grains, roasted butternut squash, pomegranate seeds, and pine nuts. Pour over the dressing and toss gently but thoroughly. Finally, crumble the feta cheese on top, so every bite includes that creamy, salty burst. This step is where the salad truly comes alive, bursting with different flavors and textures.

How to Serve Wholesome Grain Salad with Butternut Squash, Pomegranate, and Feta Recipe

A white bowl with a thin red edge holds a colorful layered salad, placed on a white marbled surface. Starting from the top left, there is a layer of dark black rice with a small piece of orange in it, moving clockwise to a medium brown layer of farro grains, then a creamy white layer of crumbled cheese. Below the cheese is a light tan layer of pine nuts, followed by a light beige layer of quinoa mixed with small orange pieces, and a deep red layer of shiny pomegranate seeds on the left side. The layers form neat sections, and the colors contrast strongly. In the top left background, two black spoons rest on a cream cloth with gray stripes. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra pop of freshness and color, sprinkle additional pomegranate seeds or a few torn fresh herbs like mint or parsley right before serving. You could also add a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for an added flavor twist.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, baked salmon, or even a simple flatbread for a balanced meal. Its hearty grains and vibrant veggies make it a fantastic complement to protein-rich mains or lighter vegetarian fare.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salad in individual mason jars or on rustic wooden boards for a charming presentation that’s perfect for casual dinners or picnics. Layer the ingredients attractively before tossing, so guests can appreciate the beautiful colors and textures. It’s also lovely served on a bed of extra arugula or butter lettuce leaves.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the best texture, store the dressing separately and toss everything just before serving. This prevents the greens from wilting and the grains from absorbing too much moisture.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh and isn’t recommended for freezing due to the delicate nature of the arugula and the texture of the pomegranate seeds. However, you can freeze leftover cooked grains separately for future use in salads or bowls.

Reheating

If you’d like to enjoy the salad warm, gently reheat just the grains and roasted squash in the microwave or a pan, then toss with fresh arugula, pomegranate seeds, pine nuts, feta, and dressing. Avoid reheating the whole salad all at once to maintain freshness and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use other grains instead of quinoa, farro, and black rice?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite grains like bulgur, barley, or brown rice. The combination in this recipe offers a wonderful texture balance, but customizing it based on what you have or prefer is totally fine.

How do I make this salad vegan?

To make a vegan version of the Wholesome Grain Salad with Butternut Squash, Pomegranate, and Feta Recipe, simply omit the feta or swap it out for a plant-based cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast sprinkled on top can also add a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Can I prepare the components ahead of time?

Yes, roasting the squash and cooking the grains can be done a day in advance, making assembly super quick when you’re ready to eat. Just wait to add the arugula and dressing until serving time to keep everything fresh.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! It’s a perfect meal prep option, especially if you store each component separately and dress the salad right before eating. Its nutritional profile and balanced flavors hold up well over a few days.

What makes the dressing special in this recipe?

The dressing’s blend of honey and two types of mustard creates a delightful contrast of sweet and tangy with a bit of texture. This combo really ties all the elements of the salad together, enhancing the natural flavors without overpowering them.

Final Thoughts

This Wholesome Grain Salad with Butternut Squash, Pomegranate, and Feta Recipe has become one of my all-time favorite go-to dishes when I want something healthy, flavorful, and just a little bit special. Every bite is a beautiful mix of textures and tastes that feel fresh, nourishing, and satisfying. I really encourage you to try it soon—you’re going to love how easy it is to whip up and how perfect it is for any season or occasion.

Wholesome Grain Salad with Butternut Squash, Pomegranate, and Feta Recipe