Why Make This Recipe

Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is a delightful and colorful dish perfect for cooler weather. It brings together the flavors of the season, featuring roasted butternut squash, sweet cranberries, and earthy nuts. This salad is not only delicious but also a great way to enjoy healthy, seasonal ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a picnic, or just looking for a tasty side dish, this pasta salad is an excellent choice.

How to Make Fall Harvest Pasta Salad

Ingredients:

8 oz pasta (such as farfalle or penne)
1 cup roasted butternut squash, cubed
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside to cool.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, roasted butternut squash, dried cranberries, chopped nuts, feta cheese, and red onion.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve Fall Harvest Pasta Salad

Fall Harvest Pasta Salad can be served as a main dish or as a side. It pairs well with grilled chicken or turkey and can be offered alongside a warm bread roll. For a light meal, serve it on its own, allowing the vibrant colors and flavors to shine.

How to Store Fall Harvest Pasta Salad

To store any leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-5 days. If you notice the pasta absorbing some of the dressing over time, you can add a little olive oil or vinegar before serving it again to freshen it up.

Tips to Make Fall Harvest Pasta Salad

Roast the butternut squash ahead of time for an easy prep.
Use whole grain pasta for a healthier option.
Feel free to adjust the nuts or cheese based on your preference.
Add some fresh spinach or arugula for extra greens.

Variation

You can customize this salad by adding ingredients like cooked chicken or turkey for protein. You might also try swapping the cranberries for apples for a crunchier texture or using goat cheese instead of feta for a different flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this pasta salad a few hours in advance. Just make sure to store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you like, such as rotini or macaroni, depending on your preference.

What can I use instead of butternut squash?
If you can’t find butternut squash, you can substitute it with roasted sweet potatoes or even roasted carrots for a similar flavor profile.