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As the days grow cooler and the leaves paint the landscape in vibrant hues, I find myself drawn to dishes that celebrate the season. Introducing my Fall Harvest Pasta Salad: a culinary gem that blends the comforting flavors of autumn into a colorful bowl of goodness. Imagine the sweet aroma of roasted butternut squash mingling with the earthy crunch of Brussels sprouts, creating a symphony of textures and tastes that dance on your palate.

This salad isn’t just visually stunning; it’s a customizable canvas that invites you to play with seasonal vegetables and add your favorite touches. With sweet-tart cranberries adding the perfect zing and a sprinkle of feta providing a delightful creaminess, this dish is bound to be a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings or potlucks. Plus, it’s healthy, vegetarian, and brimming with nourishment, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to step away from fast food. Ready to fall in love with autumn on a plate? Let’s dive into why this Fall Harvest Pasta Salad will have you craving it all season long!

Why will you love Fall Harvest Pasta Salad?

Vibrant Colors: This dish is visually stunning, showcasing a beautiful array of autumn hues that make it a feast for the eyes.
Satisfying Textures: Experience a delightful contrast with tender pasta, creamy butternut squash, and crunchy Brussels sprouts, creating a mouthwatering combination.
Customizable: Feel free to mix and match your favorite seasonal vegetables, making it a unique dish every time you prepare it.
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s perfect for potlucks and family gatherings, guaranteed to impress friends and loved ones alike.
Nutrient-Packed: A wholesome alternative to fast food, it’s rich in fiber and healthy fats, ensuring you nourish your body while enjoying great flavors.
Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this delightful salad in no time, allowing more time to enjoy the company of others.
Perfect for Leftovers: Store it in the fridge for a quick, tasty lunch, allowing those wonderful flavors to meld beautifully as it sits.

Fall Harvest Pasta Salad Ingredients

For the Pasta
• Pasta – Use 12 oz of your favorite pasta shape for a sturdy base; whole wheat or gluten-free options work great too.

For the Vegetables
• Butternut Squash – 1 cup diced; its sweetness enhances the overall flavor, and you can substitute with sweet potatoes or pumpkin if needed.
• Brussels Sprouts – 1 cup halved; they add a delightful crunch and slight bitterness, but roasted zucchini or bell peppers are good alternatives.

For the Mix-ins
• Dried Cranberries – ½ cup; these sweet-tart beauties elevate the dish, and you can switch them for raisins or chopped apple.
• Chopped Pecans – ½ cup; they introduce a crunchy texture; walnuts or any preferred nuts are perfect substitutes.
• Feta Cheese – ¼ cup crumbled; it adds creaminess, and consider vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.

For the Dressing
• Balsamic Vinegar – 2 tbsp; this tangy complement brightens the salad while red wine vinegar or lemon juice can serve as great substitutes.

Let this Fall Harvest Pasta Salad shine with your own personal touches!

How to Make Fall Harvest Pasta Salad

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add 12 oz of pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your vegetables roast perfectly, bringing out their natural sweetness.
Prepare the Vegetables: In a bowl, toss 1 cup diced butternut squash and 1 cup halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet for even roasting.
Roast the Veggies: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the veggies for 20-25 minutes. Stir halfway through, allowing them to caramelize and develop a lovely golden color.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, roasted vegetables, ½ cup dried cranberries, ½ cup chopped pecans, and ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese.
Dress the Salad: Drizzle 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar over the mixture. Toss everything gently to ensure every bite is flavorful and well-coated.
Serve and Enjoy: You can serve the salad chilled or at room temperature. If you prepare it ahead, let it sit for a couple of hours to let the flavors meld beautifully.

Optional: Garnish with extra pecans or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Fall Harvest Pasta Salad

Cook Pasta Al Dente: Always cook your pasta just until it’s al dente to maintain the right texture in this salad, preventing it from becoming mushy.
Roast for Flavor: Roasting the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts enhances their sweetness. Don’t skip this step—you’ll love the flavors it brings to your Fall Harvest Pasta Salad.
Keep Dressing Separate: If making ahead, store the balsamic vinegar separately until serving. This helps keep the ingredients fresh and prevents sogginess.
Mix in Fresh Herbs: For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to your salad before serving.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with different vegetables based on your preferences or what’s in season. Each variation can transform your Fall Harvest Pasta Salad into something new and exciting!

Make Ahead Options

These Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can roast the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts up to 3 days in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their flavor and texture. Additionally, you can cook the pasta ahead of time and keep it chilled to preserve its al dente quality. When you’re ready to serve, assemble the salad by combining the pasta, roasted vegetables, dried cranberries, pecans, and feta cheese, then drizzle with balsamic vinegar just before enjoying. This way, you’ll have a delicious, hearty dish ready to go with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

Storage Tips for Fall Harvest Pasta Salad

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the salad fresh and allows the flavors to develop over time.
Freezer: If you wish to freeze this dish, it’s best to store only the pasta and roasted vegetables for up to 2 months. Add fresh toppings like cranberries and feta after thawing to maintain their texture.
Reheating: If enjoying cold, allow the salad to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving for optimal flavor. Avoid reheating, as it may alter the texture of the vegetables.
Dressing Storage: Keep the balsamic vinegar separate until ready to serve. Drizzling it right before eating maintains the salad’s freshness and crispness.

Fall Harvest Pasta Salad Variations

Feel free to play with flavors and textures to make this salad uniquely yours!

Whole Grain: Switch out traditional pasta for quinoa or farro for a hearty twist packed with more nutrients.
Sweet Potato Swap: Replace butternut squash with roasted sweet potatoes for an extra layer of sweetness.
Zucchini Boost: Add sliced roasted zucchini for color and a fresh, mild flavor, enhancing the salad’s appeal.
Fruit Twist: Incorporate diced apples or pears instead of cranberries for a fresh, crisp taste that pairs beautifully.
Nutty Alternatives: Use slivered almonds or sunflower seeds in place of pecans for a different crunch and nutty note.
Spicy Kick: Mix in sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a little heat.
Protein Punch: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas to transform this salad into a hearty main dish that’s filling and nutritious.
Herb Medley: Toss in a mix of fresh herbs like basil or cilantro to brighten up the flavors and add a burst of freshness.

What to Serve with Fall Harvest Pasta Salad?

Brighten your autumn gatherings with delightful pairings that enhance the vibrant flavors of this salad.

Grilled Chicken: A juicy grilled chicken breast adds protein and lends a satisfying heartiness, making it a perfect complement to the salad’s freshness.
Garlic Bread: Warm, toasty garlic bread provides a crunchy contrast, balancing the creamy textures in the pasta salad for a truly comforting meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Enhance the fall theme with a side of roasted root vegetables. Their caramelization mirrors the flavors in your pasta salad while adding extra depth.
Apple Crisp: End on a sweet note with a warm apple crisp; its cinnamon warmth and crispy topping echo autumn’s essence and are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Cranberry Juice: A tall glass of unsweetened cranberry juice pairs beautifully with the hearty salad, echoing the tartness of the cranberries used in the dish.
Cheese Platter: Create a festive cheese board with creamy brie and tangy blue cheese for a touch of decadence. This assorted platter offers different textures that are perfect alongside your salad.
Antipasto Skewers: Mini skewers filled with olives, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella can add a Mediterranean twist to your meal while providing an array of flavors and textures to enjoy.

For a full feast, these pairings will beautifully complement your Fall Harvest Pasta Salad, creating the ultimate autumn dining experience!

Fall Harvest Pasta Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe butternut squash?
Absolutely! When selecting butternut squash, look for one that feels heavy for its size with a smooth, tan skin. Avoid any with dark spots, soft spots, or cuts, as these can indicate spoilage. A good squash should have a matte finish, indicating ripeness.

What is the best way to store leftovers of the Fall Harvest Pasta Salad?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I recommend letting it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving again; this can help revitalize the flavors beautifully!

Can I freeze the Fall Harvest Pasta Salad?
Yes, it can be frozen, but with a few considerations! I suggest only freezing the pasta and roasted vegetables. Place them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then add fresh cranberries and feta just before serving for optimal texture.

What if my pasta becomes mushy while cooking?
Very good question! Mushy pasta is often a result of overcooking. Be sure to follow the instructions and check your pasta for doneness after about 8 minutes to keep it al dente. If you’ve missed the mark, you can try adding it to a cold dish immediately after draining, as the cold will halt the cooking process.

Is this salad suitable for people with nut allergies?
Absolutely! If you’re serving someone with nut allergies, simply omit the chopped pecans or substitute them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch while keeping it safe for everyone.

Can I add protein to my Fall Harvest Pasta Salad?
The more the merrier! You can easily add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even edamame for a heartier meal. Just consider that this may alter the overall flavor profile, so adjust your seasonings accordingly!