As the leaves turn fiery shades of orange and gold, my kitchen transforms into a cozy haven filled with the comforting aromas of autumn. I can’t help but whip up my delightful Fall Harvest Pasta Salad—it’s a joyful homage to the season. This recipe marries sweet roasted butternut squash and crisp Brussels sprouts with the bright zing of tangy cranberries and creamy feta cheese. Not only is it a simple dish to prepare, but it also brings a beautiful splash of color to any meal, making it perfect for potlucks or those intimate family dinners. Plus, the best part? You can easily customize it with your favorite seasonal vegetables and proteins. Ready to celebrate the harvest in a bowl? Let’s dive into this vibrant recipe!

Why is this pasta salad perfect for autumn?

Vibrant Colors: This Fall Harvest Pasta Salad showcases an array of autumn hues that brighten any table.

Seasonal Ingredients: Featuring sweet roasted butternut squash and Brussels sprouts, it’s a celebration of fall flavors in every bite.

Customizable Awesomeness: Feel free to mix in your favorite seasonal veggies and proteins, making it wholly your own!

Perfect for Gatherings: Whether for potlucks or cozy dinners, this easy recipe impresses your guests with minimal effort.

Time-Saving Delight: Whip it up in under 30 minutes, leaving you plenty of time to enjoy the season.

Pair this delightful salad with a glass of spiced apple cider for an autumnal feast you won’t forget!

Fall Harvest Pasta Salad Ingredients

• Get ready to savor autumn flavors!

For the Pasta

Pasta – 12 oz – This forms the hearty base of your salad; whole wheat is a great way to add extra fiber.

For the Vegetables

Butternut Squash – 1 cup, diced – This sweet gem adds depth; roasting it enhances flavors beautifully.
Brussels Sprouts – 1 cup, halved – These little cabbages bring a lovely bitter contrast; feel free to swap in roasted zucchini or bell peppers!

For the Flavor Boosters

Cranberries – 1/2 cup, dried – These add a delightful tangy-sweet burst; pomegranate seeds can be a fresh alternative.
Pecans – 1/2 cup, chopped – Their crunch elevates the salad; walnuts or almonds are tasty substitutes.
Feta Cheese – 1/4 cup, crumbled – This provides a creamy, salty touch; consider using a dairy-free cheese for a vegan twist.

For the Dressing

Balsamic Vinegar – 2 tbsp – This adds the perfect zing and sweetness; you can adjust the amount to your taste or replace it with apple cider vinegar for a different flair.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Fall Harvest Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 12 ounces of your favorite pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process, ensuring it remains firm and not mushy for your Fall Harvest Pasta Salad.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven
While the pasta is cooking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will prepare your kitchen for roasting the vegetables, which will bring out all the wonderful autumn flavors. It’s essential to get the oven nice and hot so that the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts caramelize beautifully when roasted.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of diced butternut squash and 1 cup of halved Brussels sprouts. Drizzle them with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper, tossing everything to coat evenly. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet, ensuring they have space to roast properly while you prepare the next steps.

Step 4: Roast the Vegetables
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts for 20-25 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even browning and caramelization. You’ll know they’re ready when the squash is tender and slightly golden, creating a delicious base for your Fall Harvest Pasta Salad.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine your cooked pasta, roasted vegetables, 1/2 cup of dried cranberries, 1/2 cup of chopped pecans, and 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese. Gently toss everything together to mix the flavors while being careful not to break the feta—this creamy element adds a delightful touch to your autumn-inspired salad.

Step 6: Dress the Salad
Drizzle 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar over the pasta mixture. Toss everything again gently, ensuring the dressing evenly coats the ingredients. If you prefer a bolder flavor, feel free to adjust the vinegar to your taste; this will enhance the overall experience of your Fall Harvest Pasta Salad.

Step 7: Serve or Chill
You can serve the salad immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Whether served cold or at room temperature, this Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is a vibrant, delicious addition to any autumn meal, perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner.

What to Serve with Fall Harvest Pasta Salad?

As you gather around the table to enjoy this seasonal delight, consider a few thoughtfully paired dishes to complete your autumn feast.

Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Their rich and buttery flavor beautifully balances the tanginess of the salad, creating a comfort food duo perfect for chilly evenings.
Honey Roasted Carrots: Sweet, caramelized carrots add a pop of color and a hint of sweetness, harmonizing perfectly with the roasted butternut squash in the salad.
Warm Apple Crisp: A classic autumn dessert that brings delightful warmth and a touch of spice, making it an irresistible finish to your meal.
Grilled Chicken Breasts: A simple yet elegant protein choice that can be seasoned with fall spices, easily transforming this salad into a complete, hearty meal.
Cranberry Sauce: A tart accompaniment, it ties together the flavors of your meal while echoing the sweet cranberries in your salad.
Spiced Apple Cider: This warm, aromatic drink perfectly captures the essence of fall and serves as a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta salad.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Echoing the flavors of your salad, these are a crispy treat that adds texture and depth, making your meal feel festive and complete.

How to Store and Freeze Fall Harvest Pasta Salad

Fridge: Keep the Fall Harvest Pasta Salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Store the dressing separately until just before serving to maintain the salad’s freshness.

Freezer: For best results, avoid freezing pasta salad, as the texture of cooked pasta and vegetables may deteriorate. If necessary, freeze only the roasted vegetables in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Reheating: If you need to reheat the vegetables, place them in a microwave-safe dish covered with a damp paper towel for 1-2 minutes until warm. Enjoy warm or chilled!

Make-Ahead: Prepare the pasta salad a day in advance without dressing for optimal flavor. Add the balsamic vinaigrette right before serving to keep that delightful crunch!

Helpful Tricks for Fall Harvest Pasta Salad

Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure you cook the pasta until just tender; overcooking makes it mushy, ruining the salad’s texture.
Roast for Flavor: Don’t skip roasting the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts—this adds a depth of flavor that elevates the Fall Harvest Pasta Salad.
Balance the Dressing: Start with the recommended balsamic vinegar, then adjust to your taste. Too much vinegar can overpower the sweet elements, so add gradually!
Chill for Best Taste: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for a few hours allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing your overall dining experience.
Keep It Fresh: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, but keep the dressing separate to maintain the texture.

Fall Harvest Pasta Salad Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Fall Harvest Pasta Salad, enhancing it with flavors and textures that please your palate!

Vegan Delight: Swap feta for a vegan cheese alternative, and use chickpeas instead of nuts for added protein. This makes the salad creamy and filling while keeping it plant-based.
Colorful Veggies: Feel free to add roasted beets or sweet bell peppers for even more vibrant color and flavor. Each bite will surprise your taste buds with a blend of sweetness and earthiness.
Protein Boost: Toss in grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or roasted tofu for a satisfying serving of protein. This makes the salad more hearty, perfect for a fulfilling lunch.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños when roasting vegetables for a delightful heat. This adds a fun, spicy twist that will wake up your taste buds!
Nuttoy Crunch: Switch out pecans for almonds or walnuts for a different nutty flavor. You can also experiment by toasting them first to enhance their crunchy texture.
Fruit Forward: Add fresh apple slices or pear pieces for a burst of sweet freshness. These fruits complement the savory elements and offer a delightful crunch.
Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an aromatic lift. Herbs bring brightness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Don’t forget to check out this Tortellini Pasta Salad or a classic Macaroni Salad Summer for more delicious ways to mix up your pasta salads!

Make Ahead Options

Planning to whip up your Fall Harvest Pasta Salad ahead of time? You can easily prepare the roasted butternut squash and Brussels sprouts up to 3 days in advance. Simply roast them, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cooked pasta can also be prepped up to 24 hours ahead; just make sure to toss it with a tiny bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, combine the pasta with the vegetables, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and feta. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar right before serving to keep the textures fresh and delicious. Enjoy the convenience of a delightful dish that tastes just as vibrant and seasonal!

Fall Harvest Pasta Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe butternut squash?
Absolutely! When selecting butternut squash, look for ones that feel heavy for their size and have a dull, matte skin. Avoid any squash with dark spots, blemishes, or soft spots. A good squash should feel firm and have a tan or creamy beige color, indicating ripeness.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! To store your Fall Harvest Pasta Salad, place it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the ingredients crisp, store the dressing separately and add it just before serving.

Can I freeze the pasta salad?
I often recommend avoiding freezing the entire pasta salad since the texture of the pasta and roasted veggies can suffer. However, if you want to freeze, you can freeze just the roasted vegetables in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in a microwave or a skillet before mixing into the salad.

What should I do if my Brussels sprouts are not roasting evenly?
If you notice uneven roasting, it might be due to overcrowding on the baking sheet. Make sure to spread the Brussels sprouts and butternut squash out in a single layer, allowing ample space for heat to circulate, resulting in optimal caramelization.

Is this salad safe for people with nut allergies?
It’s very important to consider dietary restrictions. If you or your guests have nut allergies, simply omit the pecans and consider substituting with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for similar crunch.

Can I customize the ingredients?
Absolutely! One of the joys of this Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is its versatility. Feel free to swap the Brussels sprouts for seasonal greens like kale, and try adding grilled chicken, roasted chickpeas, or any of your favorite proteins to make it your own!