Autumn Harvest Pasta Salad
Autumn Harvest Pasta Salad is a vibrant, seasonal dish that beautifully combines roasted butternut squash, sweet cranberries, and crunchy nuts. This delightful pasta salad is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or meal prep, offering both convenience and flavor. With its easy preparation and ability to improve in taste after chilling, this recipe captures the essence of fall in every bite. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or enjoy a cozy dinner at home, this hearty pasta salad will surely become a favorite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Salad
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound penne or rotini pasta
- 1 small butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup crumbled plant-based cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions; drain and rinse with cold water.
- Toss the butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 25 minutes until tender.
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper for the vinaigrette.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta with roasted butternut squash, cranberries, nuts, and parsley.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Find it online: https://miaeasycooking.com/autumn-harvest-pasta-salad/