Fall Harvest Pasta Salad
Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive
Celebrate the flavors of autumn with this vibrant Fall Harvest Pasta Salad. Loaded with seasonal ingredients like roasted butternut squash, crisp apples, and crunchy pecans, this dish is perfect for festive gatherings or as a hearty side for your Thanksgiving feast. Tossed in a maple vinaigrette, every bite offers a delightful combination of sweet and savory that captures the essence of the season.
This Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is not just a meal; it's a celebration of autumn's bounty. With each ingredient reflecting the season, this salad brings warmth and joy to every table.
Embrace the Fall Flavors
Autumn is a time for harvesting the rich and vibrant ingredients that grace our kitchens. This Fall Harvest Pasta Salad showcases the best of what this season has to offer. The delightful combination of our roasted butternut squash and crisp apples captures both the sweetness and earthiness associated with fall produce. Each bite is a reminder of the beauty found in nature's bounty, making this salad a wonderful addition to any autumn gathering.
Moreover, the addition of pecans not only adds a crunchy texture but also introduces a nutty flavor that beautifully balances the sweet fruits and vegetables. Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving feast or simply enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this salad can elevate your meal with its rich flavors and stunning presentation.
A Wholesome and Nutritious Choice
In addition to its fantastic taste, this Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is packed with nutrients. Butternut squash is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, both vital for maintaining a healthy immune system, particularly as the colder months approach. Apples bring a wealth of fiber and antioxidants, further enhancing the meal's health benefits.
The inclusion of feta cheese adds a boost of protein and calcium, making this dish not only satisfying but also beneficial for your diet. Furthermore, the maple vinaigrette sweetens the salad naturally, avoiding the need for refined sugars that can detract from the nutritious qualities of the ingredients.
Easy Preparation and Versatile Options
Preparing this salad is a breeze, allowing you to create a festive dish without spending hours in the kitchen. The steps are straightforward, making it a perfect recipe for both novice and experienced cooks alike. You can roast the butternut squash ahead of time and assemble the salad when it's convenient for you, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your company.
Additionally, this salad is incredibly versatile. Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Try adding roasted Brussels sprouts, dried cherries, or even goat cheese for a different flavor profile. This flexibility ensures that you can make it your own while still capturing the delightful essence of fall.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (fusilli or farfalle)
- 2 cups butternut squash, cubed and roasted
- 1 cup crisp apples, diced
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Maple Vinaigrette
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix together all the ingredients in a large bowl and enjoy the flavors of autumn!
Directions
Cook the Pasta
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Prepare the Vegetables
In a large bowl, combine the roasted butternut squash, diced apples, chopped pecans, dried cranberries, red onion, and feta cheese.
Make the Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta to the vegetable mixture and pour the vinaigrette over the top. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.
Serve
Serve the salad immediately or refrigerate for an hour to let the flavors meld together.
Enjoy your delicious Fall Harvest Pasta Salad!
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, storing the Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is easy! Just place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It can last for up to three days, making it ideal for meal prep or as a quick lunch option. The flavors will deepen overnight, providing an even more robust taste the next day.
When reheating, be mindful that the salad is best enjoyed cold. However, if you prefer it warmed, you can gently warm the pasta without cooking it further. Just be cautious not to heat it too much, as you want to maintain the salad's crunchy textures.
Pairing Suggestions
This Fall Harvest Pasta Salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, making it an excellent choice for any meal. It complements roasted turkey or chicken, enhancing your Thanksgiving feast without overshadowing the main course. Try serving it alongside a hearty soup or a crisp green salad for a complete dining experience.
Additionally, consider pairing it with a light white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, to complement the flavors of the salad. These wines not only accentuate the sweetness from the apples and squash but also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich pecans and feta.
Creative Serving Ideas
Elevate your serving presentation by using large lettuce leaves as edible bowls for the salad. This approach not only looks stunning but also adds a refreshing crunch. Consider garnishing your salad with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to enhance both color and flavor.
Another great idea is to serve the salad at room temperature or chilled on a warm fall day, making it a perfect picnic option. Pack individual portions for easy serving when entertaining guests or simply enjoying a day outdoors. The salad's hearty ingredients will satisfy the appetite while still feeling light and refreshing.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this salad a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve.
→ What other ingredients can I add?
Feel free to add ingredients such as kale, spinach, or pumpkin seeds for additional texture and flavor.
Fall Harvest Pasta Salad
Celebrate the flavors of autumn with this vibrant Fall Harvest Pasta Salad. Loaded with seasonal ingredients like roasted butternut squash, crisp apples, and crunchy pecans, this dish is perfect for festive gatherings or as a hearty side for your Thanksgiving feast. Tossed in a maple vinaigrette, every bite offers a delightful combination of sweet and savory that captures the essence of the season.
Created by: Anna Johnson
Recipe Type: Seasonal & Festive
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Salad Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (fusilli or farfalle)
- 2 cups butternut squash, cubed and roasted
- 1 cup crisp apples, diced
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Maple Vinaigrette
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
In a large bowl, combine the roasted butternut squash, diced apples, chopped pecans, dried cranberries, red onion, and feta cheese.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Add the cooked pasta to the vegetable mixture and pour the vinaigrette over the top. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.
Serve the salad immediately or refrigerate for an hour to let the flavors meld together.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 45g