Fall Harvest Pasta Salad

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Celebrate the vibrant flavors of autumn with this delightful Fall Harvest Pasta Salad. Packed with roasted seasonal vegetables, crunchy nuts, and a tangy vinaigrette, this salad is the perfect side dish for your fall gatherings. It's not only colorful but also hearty and nutritious, making it a great option for lunch or dinner. Enjoy the seasonal bounty in every bite!

Created by

Sam Johnson

Last updated on 2025-10-21T06:06:14.774Z

This Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is a celebration of the season, combining the freshest produce with hearty pasta and a zesty dressing.

Embrace the Autumn Vibe

As the leaves begin to change and the air crispens, fall invites us to indulge in the rich, earthy flavors of the season. This Fall Harvest Pasta Salad embodies the essence of autumn with its colorful mix of roasted seasonal vegetables like pumpkin, squash, and carrots. Not only does this dish visually capture the spirit of fall, but it also provides a filling and nutritious option that can act as a standalone meal or a delightful side dish at your gatherings.

The addition of crunchy nuts and sweet dried cranberries elevates this salad, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The creamy feta cheese adds a tangy richness, complementing the vibrant vegetables beautifully. With its mix of nutrients from the vegetables and healthy fats from the nuts, this pasta salad is a wholesome choice for health-conscious individuals looking for a delicious yet satisfying dish.

A Versatile and Customizable Recipe

One of the beauties of this Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is its versatility. Feel free to swap in your favorite roasted vegetables or even add protein such as grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra heartiness. Moreover, you can customize the nuts and cheese based on personal preference. Pecans, walnuts, or even pumpkin seeds can be used to enhance the salad's crunch factor, while goat cheese may be substituted for feta for a different taste profile.

This recipe is also excellent for meal prep. Make a large batch at the beginning of the week, and you'll have a nutritious and flavorful option ready to go for lunch or dinner. The salad keeps well in the refrigerator, and its flavors deepen as they meld together, making it a perfect dish for making ahead of time.

Ingredients

For the Salad

8 oz pasta (rotini or farfalle)
2 cups roasted seasonal vegetables (pumpkin, squash, carrots)
1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup dried cranberries

For the Vinaigrette

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp maple syrup
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix the ingredients well before serving.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Roast the Vegetables

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the seasonal vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread them on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.

Prepare the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, roasted vegetables, nuts, feta cheese, and cranberries. Drizzle with the vinaigrette and toss gently to combine.

Serve

Serve immediately or refrigerate for an hour to allow flavors to meld.

Enjoy this delicious and nutritious fall salad!

Tips for Perfecting Your Salad

To ensure your pasta retains its delightful texture, it's essential to cook it al dente. Follow the package instructions closely and make sure to drain it immediately to prevent overcooking. Rinsing the pasta with cold water briefly can also help stop the cooking process and keep it from becoming sticky when you combine it with other ingredients.

When roasting your vegetables, keep an eye on them during the cooking process. Oven temperatures can vary, leading to uneven roasting. Aim for a golden-brown finish, as this will enhance the natural sweetness of the veggies. Tossing them halfway through roasting ensures even cooking and caramelization.

Serving Suggestions

This Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is incredibly adaptable and pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. Serve it alongside roasted meats or grilled fish for a hearty dinner, or enjoy it on its own for a light lunch. You can also turn it into a potluck favorite by serving it at fall gatherings alongside your favorite fall-inspired dishes.

For a more substantial meal, consider adding a protein source such as grilled chicken or chickpeas directly into the salad mix. This not only boosts the nutritional profile but also makes for a complete meal, satisfying enough to fill you up while still being fresh and light.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for nuts?

If you have nut allergies, you can omit the nuts or replace them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.