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Fall Harvest Pasta Salad Recipe

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4.1 from 67 reviews

A vibrant and hearty Fall Harvest Pasta Salad featuring roasted butternut squash and Brussels sprouts, combined with tart cranberries, crunchy pecans, and creamy feta cheese. Tossed in a simple balsamic vinaigrette, this salad offers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, making it a delightful dish for any autumn meal.

Ingredients

Pasta Salad Ingredients

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

Roasted Vegetables

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

Dressing

  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Prepare the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked al dente, drain and set it aside to cool slightly.
  2. Prepare the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to roast the vegetables.
  3. Toss the vegetables: In a bowl, combine diced butternut squash and halved Brussels sprouts. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
  4. Roast the vegetables: Spread the seasoned vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through for even cooking.
  5. Combine the salad: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, roasted vegetables, cranberries, chopped pecans, and crumbled feta cheese.
  6. Add dressing and toss: Drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients and evenly distribute flavors.
  7. Serve: The salad can be served chilled or at room temperature, making it versatile for different occasions.

Notes

  • Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as roasted carrots or sweet potatoes for extra variety.
  • This salad can be made a day ahead to allow flavors to meld and intensify.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.