Fall Harvest Pasta Salad

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Celebrate autumn with this vibrant Fall Harvest Pasta Salad, packed with seasonal flavors and colorful ingredients. A delightful mix of roasted vegetables, fresh greens, and hearty pasta, this dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners. Tossed in a zesty dressing, it offers a taste of fall in every bite, making it a nutritious and satisfying addition to your fall dinner table.

Created by

Sam Johnson

Last updated on 2025-10-22T09:33:48.740Z

This Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is the perfect way to embrace the flavors of autumn. With a medley of roasted vegetables and fresh greens, it's both colorful and healthy.

Perfect for Any Occasion

The Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that fits right in at any gathering, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive holiday celebration. Its colorful ingredients not only make it visually appealing but also provide a delicious blend of flavors that everyone will enjoy. This salad can stand alone as a hearty main course or serve as a delightful side dish to complement your favorite proteins.

Moreover, this recipe is easily customizable. You can add or substitute various seasonal vegetables according to your preferences or what you have on hand. Variants like roasted sweet potatoes, or adding cranberries for a touch of sweetness can enhance the flavor profile, making it even more tailored to your family’s taste.

Nutritional Benefits

Fall Harvest Pasta Salad isn't just tasty; it’s incredibly nutritious too! Packed with seasonal vegetables like butternut squash and Brussels sprouts, it provides essential vitamins and minerals that support your health. Mixed greens contribute additional fiber and antioxidants, making this salad a wholesome choice for any meal.

The inclusion of walnuts adds healthy fats and protein, which can keep you feeling satisfied longer. Meanwhile, feta cheese offers a creamy texture with fewer calories compared to heavier dressings, allowing you to enjoy a rich flavor without guilt. Together, these ingredients create a balanced dish that is both delicious and nourishing.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious pasta salad:

Ingredients

2 cups of pasta (your choice)
1 cup of roasted butternut squash, diced
1 cup of Brussels sprouts, halved and roasted
1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
2 cups of mixed greens
1/4 cup of feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup of walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup of olive oil
2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all the ingredients together for a hearty and seasonal dish.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Fall Harvest Pasta Salad:

Cook the Pasta

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

Roast the Vegetables

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, roasted vegetables, cherry tomatoes, mixed greens, feta cheese, and walnuts.

Prepare Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Pour over the salad and toss to combine.

Serve

Serve the salad warm or at room temperature, and enjoy!

This hearty salad is a delightful main course or a side dish for any fall gathering.

Exploring Seasonal Flavors

As autumn brings a bounty of produce, this salad allows you to take full advantage of the season's flavors. Incorporating local, seasonal ingredients makes this dish not only eco-friendly but also bursting with the freshest tastes. Roasting enhances the natural sweetness of vegetables, creating a delightful contrast with the acidity of the balsamic dressing.

Consider experimenting with spices and herbs for added depth. A sprinkle of nutmeg on the butternut squash or fresh thyme on the Brussels sprouts can elevate the dish and bring warmth that perfectly echoes the spirit of fall.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement the flavors of your Fall Harvest Pasta Salad, think about pairing it with a light protein such as grilled chicken or seared salmon. The richness of these proteins balances the zesty, earthy flavors of the salad, resulting in a well-rounded meal.

If you're interested in a cozy night in, a glass of white wine, particularly a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, can enhance your dining experience. Its bright acidity and fruity notes are the perfect match for the salad’s vibrant and varied ingredients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, the salad can be prepared a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

You can use goat cheese or leave it out entirely for a dairy-free version.