Fall Harvest Pasta Salad

 

Craving a dish that screams autumn and bursts with flavor? Our Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is a delightful mix of sweet and savory, perfect for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or meal prepping. This pasta salad, inspired by bountiful fall harvests, combines roasted butternut squash, crisp apples, and crunchy pecans. Let’s dive into the magic of this incredible dish!

Why You’ll Love This Fall Harvest Pasta Salad

Get ready to fall in love with this vibrant pasta salad. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour.
• Flavor Explosion: Sweet apples, savory squash, tangy dressing.
• Perfect Texture: Chewy pasta, creamy goat cheese, crunchy pecans.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Makes delicious leftovers for days.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings and potlucks.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and protein.
• Customizable: Easy to adapt to your favorite ingredients.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses seasonal ingredients for maximum value.

Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen as the butternut squash roasts and the anticipation of that first irresistible bite. This salad will quickly become a fall favorite!

Ingredients Needed for Fall Harvest Pasta Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to create this autumn masterpiece:

• 1 pound / 450g pasta (such as penne or farfalle) – Choose your favorite short pasta shape.
• 1 butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed – About 2 pounds / 900g. Select a squash that feels heavy for its size.
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced – Adds a subtle sharpness; about 1 medium onion.
• 2 apples, cored and chopped – Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji apples work wonderfully.
• 1 cup / 120g dried cranberries – Adds sweetness and chewiness.
• 1 cup / 100g pecans, chopped – Toast them lightly for extra flavor.
• 4 ounces / 115g goat cheese, crumbled (optional) – For a creamy, tangy touch.
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish – Use flat-leaf or curly parsley, your preference.

Dressing Ingredients

• 1/2 cup / 120ml olive oil – Extra virgin olive oil provides the best flavor.
• 1/4 cup / 60ml apple cider vinegar – Adds a tangy kick to the dressing.
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup – For natural sweetness and autumn flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – Emulsifies the dressing and adds a zesty note.
• 1 clove garlic, minced – Adds a subtle savory flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Season generously to enhance all the flavors.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider toasting the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, until fragrant. Remember to source fresh herbs at your local farmers’ market for the best quality!

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bake – A comforting breakfast to start your fall mornings.

Essential Equipment List

Make sure you have these essential tools on hand:

• • Large pot: For cooking the pasta.
  • Colander: To drain the pasta.
  • Baking sheet: For roasting the butternut squash.
  • Large bowl: To mix the salad ingredients.
  • Whisk: To make the dressing.

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• Knife: For chopping vegetables and fruits.
• Cutting board: To protect your countertops.

A good quality knife and a sturdy cutting board make all the difference when prepping your ingredients. If you don’t have a whisk, a fork will work in a pinch!

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Difficulty: Easy

This recipe is easy to scale up for larger gatherings or halve for a smaller meal. Adjust the quantities according to your needs!

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Fall Harvest Pasta Salad

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Fall Harvest Pasta Salad:

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the cubed butternut squash with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the squash in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.

Ensure the squash is evenly coated with oil for the best caramelization. A little browning is perfect; it adds depth of flavor!

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions.
2. Drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water.
3. Set the pasta aside.

Rinsing the pasta with cold water stops the cooking process and prevents it from sticking together.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Whisk until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.

Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add a touch more maple syrup.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

1. Add the cooked pasta, roasted butternut squash, sliced red onion, chopped apples, dried cranberries, and pecans to the bowl with the dressing.
2. Toss well to combine all the ingredients.

Gently toss to ensure the dressing evenly coats the salad without crushing the ingredients.

Step 5: Add Goat Cheese and Garnish

1. If desired, gently fold in the crumbled goat cheese.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
3. Serve warm or cold.

Adding the goat cheese at the end prevents it from melting and disappearing into the salad. Fresh parsley adds a vibrant touch!

CHECK OUT: Marinated Vegetable Salad – A refreshing side dish that complements this pasta perfectly.

Tips for Success

Here are some expert tips to ensure your Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is a hit:

• • Don’t overcook the squash: Aim for tender but not mushy.
  • Toast the pecans: This enhances their nutty flavor.
  • Use high-quality olive oil: It makes a difference in the dressing.

• Taste and adjust the dressing: Make it your own.
• Don’t add goat cheese until serving: Prevents it from melting.

If your dressing is too thick, thin it out with a little water or apple cider vinegar. Pre-measure your ingredients to make the process even smoother!

Variations & Substitutions

Get creative and customize this salad to your liking:

• Cheese: Use feta or blue cheese instead of goat cheese.
• Nuts: Try walnuts or almonds instead of pecans.
• Vegetables: Add roasted Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes.
• Sweetness: Use honey or agave instead of maple syrup.
• Vegan: Omit the goat cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

Add a dash of cinnamon for a warm, spicy twist or a splash of lemon juice for extra tanginess!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Fall Harvest Pasta Salad

Make it a complete meal with these delicious pairings:

• Protein: Grilled chicken or tofu.
• Sides: Roasted root vegetables or a crisp green salad.
• Drinks: Sparkling apple cider or a spiced herbal tea.

This salad is perfect for fall gatherings, Thanksgiving side dish, or a simple weeknight meal. Drizzle the dressing artfully for an elegant presentation!

Health Benefits

This Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, while apples provide fiber and antioxidants. Pecans offer healthy fats and vitamin E. This salad is a great source of energy and supports overall well-being.

Storage & Reheating

Here’s how to store and reheat your leftover salad:

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: If serving warm, gently heat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of the pasta and vegetables may change.

Make sure to cool the salad completely before storing it to prevent spoilage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Avoid Soggy Results?

Ensure the pasta is drained well and cooled before adding the dressing. Toss gently to avoid crushing the ingredients.

Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a day in advance. Add the goat cheese and fresh parsley just before serving.

Can I Double the Recipe?

Absolutely! Just adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly. Watch the roasting time for the butternut squash.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Penne, farfalle, or rotini work best. Choose a short pasta shape that holds the dressing well.

Can I Use Frozen Butternut Squash?

Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before roasting.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 450
• Total Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 300mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 55g
• Dietary Fiber: 8g
• Sugars: 15g
• Protein: 15g

Please note that the exact nutritional information may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more fall-inspired recipes? Check out these gems:

• Pumpkin Whipped Feta Dip – A creamy and savory appetizer perfect for fall gatherings.
• Autumn Salad with Maple Vinaigrette – A delightful salad with seasonal ingredients and a sweet maple dressing.
• Apple Brownies: Easy Fall Dessert – A sweet and comforting treat that captures the essence of autumn.

Conclusion

Our Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is a fast, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing dish that perfectly captures the essence of autumn. Its blend of sweet and savory, creamy and crunchy textures will leave you craving more. Whip it up tonight and tag us with your delicious masterpiece!

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