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Fall Harvest Pasta Salad

Fall Harvest Pasta Salad: A Festive Treat for Your Table

Delight in the flavors of autumn with this vibrant Fall Harvest Pasta Salad featuring roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and cranberries.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz pasta Use your favorite type; whole wheat or gluten-free can be substituted.
For the Roasted Vegetables
  • 1 cup butternut squash Diced; may substitute with sweet potatoes or pumpkin.
  • 1 cup Brussels sprouts Halved; zucchini or bell peppers are great alternatives.
For the Salad Mix
  • 0.5 cup dried cranberries Try raisins or chopped apples for a twist.
  • 0.5 cup chopped pecans Walnuts or almonds can be used instead.
  • 0.25 cup crumbled feta cheese Use vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
For the Dressing
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar Adds tanginess.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil Substitute with avocado oil if desired.
  • salt For seasoning; adjust to taste.
  • pepper For seasoning; adjust to taste.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • baking sheet
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool down. Set aside.
  2. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and caramelized.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the roasted vegetables, cranberries, pecans, and feta cheese. Toss gently until well mixed.
  4. Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss again to ensure all ingredients are coated.
  5. Serve chilled or at room temperature. For best flavor, refrigerate for a couple of hours before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 8gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 6gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 5000IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For deeper flavors, roast the vegetables until slightly charred. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired. Keep balsamic dressing separate if preparing in advance to maintain freshness.

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