Costco Butternut Squash Salad: 5 Easy Vegan Recipes

If you’re a fan of healthy fall salads and crave that perfect balance of sweet, savory, and hearty, then you’re going to love this Costco Butternut Squash Salad recipe. Inspired by the beloved deli favorite from Costco, this vegan-friendly, plant-based version brings all the flavor—without the dairy or processed extras.

This easy copycat recipe is ideal for clean eating, meal prep, or a satisfying lunch that won’t weigh you down. Packed with roasted butternut squash, massaged kale, and a tangy maple Dijon dressing, this salad is not just seasonal—it’s a staple you’ll come back to all year long. Whether you’re fully plant-based or simply looking to eat more whole foods, this Costco Butternut Squash Salad is a must-try.

What Makes the Original Costco Salad So Popular?

The Costco Butternut Squash Salad has become a seasonal favorite among shoppers who love fresh, ready-to-eat meals that are both flavorful and nutritious. Found in the deli section, this hearty salad is known for its vibrant mix of textures and naturally sweet and savory profile. While it’s packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s not always labeled as vegan, which is why a fully plant-based version is a great alternative for those following a vegan-friendly lifestyle.

1. Butternut Squash: The Star of the Dish

Butternut squash is the key ingredient that gives the Costco Butternut Squash Salad its warm, comforting vibe. Roasted to bring out its natural sweetness, the squash pairs perfectly with the other earthy and tart elements of the salad. For more roasted vegetable inspiration, check out our Fried Squash Recipe.

2. Kale: A Nutrient-Packed Base

The salad uses chopped kale as its leafy green base. Kale is not only rich in vitamins A, C, and K, but it also holds up well to dressings, making it ideal for meal prep and longer storage.

3. Pumpkin Seeds: Crunch with Benefits

Roasted pumpkin seeds (also called pepitas) add a crunchy texture and a healthy dose of plant-based protein and zinc. They balance out the softness of the squash and the chewiness of other toppings.

4. Dried Cranberries: A Tart Sweet Finish

Dried cranberries offer a touch of tartness that complements the sweet and savory notes in the Costco Butternut Squash Salad. They also add a chewy texture that enhances the salad’s overall mouthfeel. Pair this salad with a Strawberry Compote Recipe for a sweet twist.

5. Quinoa: A Hearty Grain Boost

Quinoa provides the bulk of the salad’s staying power. As a complete protein and naturally gluten-free grain, it makes the dish more filling while keeping it plant-based and nutrient-dense.

6. Maple Dijon Dressing: The Flavor Binder

The salad is tossed in a maple Dijon vinaigrette, which brings a sweet, tangy, and slightly sharp flavor that ties all the ingredients together. While the original may contain honey or other non-vegan additives, a plant-based version can easily replicate the flavor using maple syrup.

7. Not Always Vegan—Here’s Why That Matters

Although the original Costco Butternut Squash Salad appears to be plant-forward, it’s not always entirely vegan. Ingredients like honey in the dressing or potential dairy-based binders can make it unsuitable for those following a strict plant-based diet. That’s why creating a vegan-friendly, copycat version is such a great option—it delivers all the taste and texture without compromising your values or dietary choices.

Ingredients You’ll Need (Plant-Based Swaps Included)

To make this Costco Butternut Squash Salad recipe fully vegan and aligned with a plant-based lifestyle, you’ll need a handful of wholesome ingredients. These are all easy to find at most grocery stores and reflect the spirit of whole foods—minimally processed, nutrient-rich, and satisfying.

• Roasted Butternut Squash (The heart of this salad) – Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of butternut squash and gives the salad a cozy, caramelized flavor. Cut into cubes and roast with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper until tender and golden. A quality roasting pan can make this step effortless.
• Massaged Kale (The leafy base) – Kale is a powerhouse green packed with vitamins and fiber. Massaging it with a bit of olive oil or lemon juice softens its texture and mellows the bitterness, making it more enjoyable in salads.
• Cooked Quinoa (The protein-packed grain) – Quinoa is a complete protein and a gluten-free grain, making it ideal for a plant-based diet. Use cooked and cooled quinoa to add bulk, texture, and nutrition to the Costco Butternut Squash Salad.
• Vegan Maple Dijon Dressing (The flavor boost) – This dressing blends tangy Dijon mustard with sweet maple syrup and a splash of vinegar. Unlike some store-bought versions that use honey or dairy, this plant-based option keeps the flavor bold while staying vegan-friendly.

Optional Add-ins (To personalize your salad) – Feel free to customize your version of the Costco Butternut Squash Salad with any of these nutrient-dense, whole food ingredients:

• Sliced avocado for creaminess
• Roasted chickpeas for extra crunch and protein
• Chopped walnuts or pecans for healthy fats and texture

These ingredients not only reflect a plant-based approach but also make this salad perfect for meal prep, quick lunches, or a nutritious side dish any time of year.

Instructions for Making the Costco Butternut Squash Salad

Here’s how to bring this vegan Costco Butternut Squash Salad to life with simple, straightforward steps.

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel and cube the butternut squash, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for 25–30 minutes until tender and caramelized.
3. While the squash roasts, massage chopped kale with a tablespoon of olive oil or lemon juice for 1–2 minutes to soften.
4. Cook quinoa according to package instructions and let it cool.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, and 3 tablespoons olive oil to make the dressing.
6. In a large bowl, combine roasted squash, massaged kale, cooked quinoa, ¼ cup dried cranberries, and ¼ cup roasted pumpkin seeds.
7. Drizzle the vegan maple Dijon dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
8. Add optional ingredients like avocado, chickpeas, or nuts, if desired, and serve immediately or chill for later.

5 Easy Vegan Recipes Inspired by Costco’s Butternut Squash Salad

Whether you’re looking to replicate the original or try something new, these vegan-friendly variations of the Costco Butternut Squash Salad offer something for every taste and occasion. Each version is designed to be simple, plant-based, and packed with whole food ingredients.

1. Classic Copycat Version

This version stays true to the original Costco Butternut Squash Salad, but uses vegan ingredients to keep it plant-based without losing flavor or texture.

Ingredients

• 2 cups roasted butternut squash
• 2 cups massaged kale
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• ¼ cup dried cranberries
• ¼ cup roasted pumpkin seeds
• Vegan maple Dijon dressing

Instructions

1. Roast the cubed butternut squash until golden and tender.
2. Massage chopped kale with olive oil until softened.
3. Cook and cool quinoa according to package instructions.
4. In a large bowl, combine squash, kale, quinoa, cranberries, and pumpkin seeds.
5. Drizzle with dressing and toss to combine.

Tip: This version is ideal for a vegan-friendly take on a deli classic, perfect for lunches or gatherings. Try pairing it with our Vegan Green Bean Casserole Recipe for a complete meal.

2. High-Protein Chickpea Twist

For a heartier, protein-packed variation, this recipe adds chickpeas or tofu to the base Costco Butternut Squash Salad concept.

Ingredients

• 2 cups roasted butternut squash
• 2 cups massaged kale
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• ½ cup roasted chickpeas or baked tofu cubes
• ¼ cup pumpkin seeds
• Vegan maple Dijon dressing

Instructions

1. Roast squash and chickpeas (or tofu) with olive oil and your favorite seasoning.
2. Massage kale to soften and enhance flavor.
3. Cook and cool quinoa.
4. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and toss with dressing.

Tip: This is a great option for a post-workout meal or a filling plant-based dinner. For more high-protein ideas, explore our High-Protein Slow Cooker Recipes.

3. Sweet & Savory Cranberry Walnut Mix

A festive variation that brings added crunch and richness—perfect for holiday tables or fall gatherings.

Ingredients

• 2 cups roasted butternut squash
• 2 cups massaged kale
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• ¼ cup dried cranberries
• ¼ cup chopped walnuts
• 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds
• Vegan maple Dijon dressing

Instructions

1. Roast butternut squash until tender and caramelized.
2. Massage kale and prepare quinoa as usual.
3. Combine squash, kale, quinoa, cranberries, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds in a mixing bowl.
4. Toss everything with the dressing right before serving.

Tip: The walnut-cranberry combo gives the Costco Butternut Squash Salad a comforting, festive flair. For another holiday-inspired dish, try our Apple Coffee Cake Recipe.

4. Grain-Free with Roasted Cauliflower

This variation skips the grains for a paleo-inspired vegan version of the Costco Butternut Squash Salad, still full of texture and flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 cups roasted butternut squash
• 1½ cups roasted cauliflower florets
• 2 cups massaged kale
• ¼ cup pumpkin seeds
• 2 tablespoons dried cranberries
• Vegan maple Dijon dressing

Instructions

1. Roast both squash and cauliflower until golden and tender.
2. Massage kale with lemon juice or olive oil.
3. Combine roasted vegetables and kale in a bowl with cranberries and seeds.
4. Add dressing and toss gently to coat.

Tip: This version is perfect for those looking to reduce grains without sacrificing the flavor of the original Costco Butternut Squash Salad.

5. Meal Prep Mason Jar Salad

Designed for on-the-go eating, this portable version of the Costco Butternut Squash Salad is layered to stay fresh until you’re ready to eat.

Ingredients

• 2 cups roasted butternut squash
• 2 cups massaged kale
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• ¼ cup pumpkin seeds
• ¼ cup dried cranberries
• Vegan maple Dijon dressing

Instructions

1. Add the dressing to the bottom of a wide-mouth mason jar.
2. Layer quinoa, followed by butternut squash.
3. Add kale next, then top with pumpkin seeds and cranberries.
4. Seal the jar and refrigerate until ready to eat. Shake before serving.

Tip: This layered salad stays crisp for 3–4 days, making it a convenient way to enjoy the Costco Butternut Squash Salad throughout the week. For more meal prep ideas, check out our Healthy Recipes for Picky Eaters.

How to Store, Meal Prep & Customize

Making the most of your Costco Butternut Squash Salad means knowing how to store it properly, prep it ahead, and customize it to suit your tastes and dietary needs. This versatile salad is perfect for healthy meal prep, easy vegan lunch ideas, and fits beautifully into any plant-based diet.

1. Refrigerating Tips (For Maximum Freshness)

• Store the assembled salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
• Keep the vegan maple Dijon dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to avoid sogginess.
• Kale holds up well in the fridge, especially when massaged—it actually gets better after marinating overnight.

The Costco Butternut Squash Salad stays crisp and flavorful for several days when stored properly, making it ideal for quick weekday meals.

2. Freezing (What Works and What Doesn’t)

• While most of the components can be prepped in advance, not all are freezer-friendly.
• You can freeze roasted butternut squash and cooked quinoa separately for up to 2 months.
• Avoid freezing kale, cranberries, and dressing, as they lose their texture and flavor after thawing.

Tip: Freeze the base ingredients in portions so you can quickly assemble a fresh version of your favorite Costco Butternut Squash Salad anytime.

3. Making in Batches (Meal Prep Friendly)

• To meal prep for the week, roast a large batch of squash and cook enough quinoa for several servings.
• Store ingredients in individual containers so they’re easy to assemble and mix as needed.
• Pack into mason jars or meal prep containers for grab-and-go vegan lunch ideas that are both filling and nutrient-rich. A set of mason jars is perfect for this.

The Costco Butternut Squash Salad prepared in batches saves time and helps you stick to a balanced, plant-based diet with minimal effort.

4. Customizing Your Salad (Make It Your Own)

• Add seasonal ingredients like roasted sweet potato, pomegranate seeds, or apple slices.
• Swap quinoa for farro, couscous, or even lentils if you’re not strictly gluten-free.
• Adjust the dressing to your taste—add a splash of balsamic or a spoonful of tahini for a creamier twist.
• Include protein-rich toppings like tempeh, tofu, or hemp seeds for a more satisfying meal.

Tip: The beauty of the Costco Butternut Squash Salad is in its flexibility—you can easily tailor it to match your taste preferences or nutritional goals.

FAQs

Get answers to common questions about preparing, customizing, and enjoying the Costco Butternut Squash Salad in a plant-based kitchen.

1. Is Costco’s Butternut Squash Salad Vegan?

Not always. While the original Costco Butternut Squash Salad includes many plant-based ingredients like roasted squash, kale, quinoa, and pumpkin seeds, it may contain non-vegan elements such as honey in the dressing or cheese-based binders. That’s why this homemade version is a great alternative—it’s fully vegan and easy to customize for your dietary needs.

2. What Can I Use Instead of Quinoa?

Quinoa is a great base for its texture and protein content, but if you’re looking for a swap, several options work well in a plant-based diet:

• Cooked brown rice
• Farro (not gluten-free)
• Millet
• Couscous
• Lentils

Each brings its own flavor and texture while still complementing the classic ingredients in the Costco Butternut Squash Salad.

3. Can I Make This Salad Oil-Free?

Yes. To make an oil-free version of the Costco Butternut Squash Salad, you can:

• Roast the squash with a splash of vegetable broth or maple syrup instead of oil.
• Massage kale using lemon juice or a small amount of avocado.
• Replace the vegan maple Dijon dressing with a simple blend of mustard, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar for a fat-free option.

This approach still delivers flavor while keeping your recipe aligned with healthy meal prep or whole-food, plant-based guidelines.

4. Can I Use Frozen Squash?

Yes, frozen butternut squash is a convenient and time-saving substitute. Just make sure to:

• Thaw completely and drain excess moisture.
• Roast at a high temperature to achieve caramelization and reduce sogginess.

Using frozen squash won’t compromise the flavor of your homemade Costco Butternut Squash Salad, and it’s a great option for quick weeknight prep or off-season availability.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a flavorful, nutrient-packed dish that fits perfectly into a plant-based lifestyle, this Costco Butternut Squash Salad recipe is a must-try. It captures the comforting fall flavors of the original while offering flexibility, freshness, and a fully vegan-friendly approach. Whether you prefer the classic copycat version or love experimenting with high-protein or grain-free twists, there’s a variation here for every taste.

Tried one of the recipes or made your own version? Leave a comment below and share how you customized your Costco Butternut Squash Salad—we’d love to hear your ideas and favorite add-ins. For more plant-based recipes, visit Toss Recipes.