Fall Harvest Pasta Salad
Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive
Celebrate the flavors of autumn with this vibrant Fall Harvest Pasta Salad. Bursting with seasonal ingredients like roasted butternut squash, crisp apples, and crunchy pecans, this salad is the perfect addition to your cozy fall dinners. Tossed in a zesty maple vinaigrette, it’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a nutritious and delicious option. Perfect for potlucks or as a side dish, it embodies the essence of harvest time.
This Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is a beautiful blend of autumn flavors that will bring warmth to your table. Enjoy each bite filled with the essence of the season.
The Benefits of Seasonal Eating
One of the best aspects of fall is the bounty of fresh, seasonal produce available to us. Eating seasonally not only supports local farmers but also ensures that you are getting the freshest ingredients. Seasonal fruits and vegetables tend to be more flavorful, nutrient-dense, and cost-effective. Incorporating ingredients like butternut squash and apples into your meals during autumn allows you to enjoy the best harvest time has to offer.
The Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is a prime example of how seasonal ingredients can elevate a dish. The sweet, nutty flavor of roasted butternut squash complements the crispness of fresh apples, while the pecans provide a satisfying crunch. Together, these ingredients create a medley of textures and tastes that not only please the palate but also promote health.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or attending a potluck with friends, this Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that fits any occasion. Its vibrant colors and delicious flavors make it an impressive addition to any table setting, engaging both the eyes and appetite. Plus, it can be easily prepared ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy your gathering without the stress of last-minute cooking.
Additionally, this salad serves as a great side dish or a light main meal. With robust ingredients packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, it's not just a sidekick but can stand alone as a healthy meal option. It’s perfect for all dietary preferences, making it a great choice to cater to everyone in your group.
Customizing Your Salad
One of the best aspects of this Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is its customization potential. Feel free to swap out ingredients based on personal preferences or what's available in your pantry. For instance, you can try adding roasted sweet potatoes instead of butternut squash, or substitute walnuts for pecans for a different nutty flavor.
You can also experiment with different types of pasta to cater to dietary needs, whether gluten-free or whole grain. Adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil can enhance the flavor profile, while adding more vegetables like spinach or arugula can increase the nutritional value of the salad. The options are nearly endless, allowing you to make this salad uniquely yours.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to create your delicious salad.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- 1 cup roasted butternut squash, diced
- 1 apple, diced
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup cranberries, dried
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all the ingredients well to ensure every bite is full of flavor.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad.
Prepare the Pasta
Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Roast the Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes until tender.
Make the Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, roasted squash, apple, pecans, cranberries, feta, and red onion.
Dress the Salad
Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss until everything is well-coated.
Let the salad sit for a few minutes for the flavors to meld before serving.
Nutritional Highlights
This Fall Harvest Pasta Salad not only tantalizes your taste buds but also packs a nutritional punch. The roasted butternut squash is a great source of vitamins A and C, providing powerful antioxidants that support immune health and skin vitality. Apples contribute dietary fiber, promoting digestive health, and combined with the healthy fats from pecans and olive oil, this salad can keep you feeling satisfied for longer.
The inclusion of feta cheese adds a creamy, tangy element while providing calcium and protein. With each bite, you are not only indulging in delicious flavors but also nourishing your body with essential nutrients.
Save it for Later
One of the great things about the Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is its storage capability. If you make a large batch, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just keep the vinaigrette separate until you're ready to serve to maintain the freshness of the ingredients and prevent sogginess. When ready to eat, simply drizzle the dressing and toss the salad well.
This makes it a fantastic meal prep option for busy weekdays. You can enjoy it for lunch or dinner without the hassle of cooking each day, ensuring that you have a nutritious meal ready to go, rich with the season’s flavors.
Pairing Suggestions
To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing the Fall Harvest Pasta Salad with a protein of your choice. Grilled chicken or roasted turkey could complement the salad beautifully, making for a wholesome autumn meal. If you're looking for vegetarian options, try adding chickpeas or quinoa to boost the protein content and make it more filling.
For beverages, a crisp white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc or even a spiced apple cider can pair wonderfully, enhancing the meal's flavors while keeping with the cozy, seasonal theme. Enjoying this salad with the right accompaniments can genuinely make it the star of your fall gatherings.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just add the dressing right before serving.
→ What type of pasta should I use?
You can use any pasta of your choice such as penne, fusilli, or rotini.
Fall Harvest Pasta Salad
Celebrate the flavors of autumn with this vibrant Fall Harvest Pasta Salad. Bursting with seasonal ingredients like roasted butternut squash, crisp apples, and crunchy pecans, this salad is the perfect addition to your cozy fall dinners. Tossed in a zesty maple vinaigrette, it’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a nutritious and delicious option. Perfect for potlucks or as a side dish, it embodies the essence of harvest time.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Seasonal & Festive
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- 1 cup roasted butternut squash, diced
- 1 apple, diced
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup cranberries, dried
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes until tender.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, roasted squash, apple, pecans, cranberries, feta, and red onion.
Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss until everything is well-coated.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 8g