Print

Fall Harvest Pasta Salad Recipe

5 from 69 reviews

This Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is a vibrant dish celebrating the flavors of autumn with roasted butternut squash and Brussels sprouts, sweet cranberries, crunchy pecans, and tangy feta cheese tossed in a balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect as a refreshing side or a light main, it showcases a delightful mix of textures and seasonal ingredients that will keep you craving this wholesome and colorful salad.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Roasted Vegetables

  • 12 oz pasta
  • 1 cup butternut squash, diced
  • 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Salad Mix-ins

  • 1 cup cranberries
  • 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

Dressing

  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to cool.
  2. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the vegetables.
  3. Toss Vegetables: In a bowl, combine diced butternut squash and halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, ensuring they are evenly coated.
  4. Roast Vegetables: Spread the coated vegetables evenly on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
  5. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, roasted butternut squash and Brussels sprouts, cranberries, chopped pecans, and crumbled feta cheese.
  6. Add Dressing and Toss: Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the salad and toss all ingredients until everything is well combined and coated with the dressing.
  7. Serve: Chill the salad if preferred or serve at room temperature for a delicious fall-inspired pasta salad perfect for any occasion.

Notes

  • You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred.
  • For a nuttier flavor, toast the pecans lightly before adding them to the salad.
  • Use gluten-free pasta to make this salad gluten-free.
  • The salad can be prepared a day ahead to let flavors meld together beautifully.
  • Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: fall pasta salad, roasted vegetables, butternut squash salad, Brussels sprouts salad, autumn salad, pasta salad with cranberries, feta pasta salad