Why make this recipe

Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is a great way to celebrate the flavors of the season. It’s healthy, colorful, and packed with ingredients that reflect the essence of autumn, like butternut squash and cranberries. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy dinner at home. Not only is it tasty, but it’s also easy to make and can be served cold or at room temperature, making it versatile for any occasion.

How to make Fall Harvest Pasta Salad

Ingredients :

8 oz pasta (like rotini or penne)
1 cup roasted butternut squash, diced
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 red onion, finely chopped
1 cup baby spinach
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions :

Cook the pasta according to package directions; drain and let cool.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, roasted butternut squash, cranberries, walnuts, red onion, baby spinach, and feta cheese.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.

How to serve Fall Harvest Pasta Salad

You can serve this pasta salad as a side dish or as a light main course. It pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own. For a festive touch, consider garnishing with extra walnuts or feta on top.

how to store Fall Harvest Pasta Salad

Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. If you find that the pasta has absorbed too much dressing, you can mix in a bit more olive oil or vinegar before serving again.

Tips to make Fall Harvest Pasta Salad

You can add more seasonal veggies like roasted Brussels sprouts or kale for extra vitamins.
If you want a bit of protein, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas.
Feel free to adjust the dressing to suit your taste; add more vinegar for tanginess or honey for sweetness.

variation (if any)

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta. You can also substitute the feta cheese with a dairy-free alternative if you’re looking for a vegan option.

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh butternut squash instead of roasted?
A: Yes, you can use fresh butternut squash, but roasting it enhances the flavor and adds a nice texture.

Q: How can I make this salad a meal?
A: To make it more filling, consider adding protein like grilled chicken, turkey, or chickpeas.

Q: Can I prepare this salad in advance?
A: Yes, it’s a great make-ahead dish. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.