Fall Harvest Pasta Salad

Name: Fall Harvest Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (e.g., penne or rotini); 1 cup roasted butternut squash, cubed; 2 cups kale, chopped and massaged; 1 apple, diced; 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped; 1/4 cup dried cranberries; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Celebrate the vibrant flavors of autumn with this delicious Fall Harvest Pasta Salad. Packed with seasonal produce like roasted butternut squash, crispy kale, and crunchy apples, this dish is a delightful blend of textures and tastes. Tossed in a zesty dressing, it's perfect for fall gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy dinner at home. Enjoy a nourishing and colorful side that truly embodies the spirit of the season!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-10-21T05:53:36.555Z

This Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is a celebration of autumn flavors and colors, making it a perfect dish for any fall occasion.

Embrace Autumn's Flavors

As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp, autumn brings a bounty of fresh produce that can elevate your salads to new heights. This Fall Harvest Pasta Salad beautifully incorporates elements that reflect the season. Roasted butternut squash delivers a tender, sweet nuance while kale adds a vibrant green crunch. Together with the juicy apples and crunchy walnuts, each bite feels like a celebration of the fall harvest.

Using pasta as a base, this salad provides a satisfying element that makes it perfect for a hearty side or a light main dish. The combination of textures—from the softness of the squash to the chewiness of the cranberries—creates a balanced dish that is both visually and gastronomically appealing. It's more than just a salad; it's a festive homage to the richness of fall.

Easy to Make and Customize

One of the best aspects of this pasta salad is its versatility. While the recipe features butternut squash, kale, and apples, feel free to experiment with other seasonal ingredients. Think roasted sweet potatoes, shredded Brussels sprouts, or even pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and flavor. This makes it not just a recipe to follow but a guide to inspire your own creativity in the kitchen.

The dressing is also simple yet zesty, complementing the sweetness of the roasted vegetables and the tang of apples perfectly. Adjust the mustard levels or add a hint of honey for a different flavor profile. This adaptability makes it a go-to recipe for any fall event, whether a casual family dinner or a festive gathering with friends.

Perfect for Entertaining

When planning a gathering, having dishes that are both delicious and visually appealing is essential. This Fall Harvest Pasta Salad checks both boxes. Its vibrant colors and inviting aroma will attract your guests, establishing it as a centerpiece on your table. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and saving you time on the day of the event.

It pairs wonderfully with a variety of entrees. Whether you're serving roasted poultry, grilled meats, or vegetarian options, this salad enriches your meal with seasonal flavors. Not only does it offer nourishment for the body, but it also creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that reflects the cozy spirit of fall.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Salad

8 oz pasta (e.g., penne or rotini)
1 cup roasted butternut squash, cubed
2 cups kale, chopped and massaged
1 apple, diced
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup dried cranberries

For the Dressing

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, roasted butternut squash, kale, apple, walnuts, and dried cranberries.

Toss with Dressing

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve

Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes for flavors to meld.

Enjoy your fresh and vibrant salad!

Nutritional Benefits

This Fall Harvest Pasta Salad isn't just a delicious option; it also packs a nutritional punch. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber, which are beneficial for maintaining good vision, skin health, and digestion. Kale provides a strong source of iron and essential vitamins, ensuring you're getting great nutrition in every bite.

The addition of walnuts brings healthy fats and protein to the mix, contributing to heart health and sustained energy levels. Dried cranberries not only add a delightful sweetness but also provide essential nutrients and antioxidants. Altogether, this dish not only delights the palate but also nourishes the body, making it an excellent choice for fall meals.

Storage Tips

If you're preparing this salad ahead of time or have leftovers, proper storage is key to maintaining its freshness. You can store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent the pasta and veggies from becoming soggy.

For meal prep, consider portioning out the salad into smaller containers with dressing on the side. This way, you can grab a healthy lunch or side dish throughout the week without sacrificing quality or taste. Just give it a light toss before enjoying to ensure all the flavors are combined.

Serving Suggestions

This Fall Harvest Pasta Salad excels as a stand-alone dish or as a side for grilled meats or roasted vegetables. For a complete autumnal feast, serve it alongside a hearty pumpkin soup or a creamy risotto. The contrasting textures and flavors complement each other perfectly and create a warm, satisfying meal that reflects the season.

You can also enhance this salad by adding protein, such as grilled chicken or chickpeas, making it a more filling option for lunch or dinner. Whichever way you decide to enjoy it, this recipe is sure to become a cherished addition to your fall repertoire.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad and dressing ahead of time. Just keep them separate until you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for kale?

You can use spinach or arugula as an alternative to kale.