Fall Harvest Pasta Salad

Name: Fall Harvest Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fusilli pasta; 1 cup butternut squash, cubed; 1 apple, diced; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1/4 cup pecans, chopped; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tbsp honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Experience the vibrant flavors of the season with this Fall Harvest Pasta Salad. Loaded with seasonal vegetables, hearty pasta, and a zesty dressing, this delightful dish is perfect for gatherings or a comforting meal at home. The combination of sweet roasted squash, crunchy apples, and tart cranberries creates a unique flavor profile that you’ll want to savor all autumn long.

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2025-11-29T06:39:46.982Z

This Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is not just a dish; it's a celebration of autumn's best flavors. With each bite, you'll enjoy the combination of roasted vegetables, crisp fruits, and a tangy dressing that will make you feel warm and cozy.

Seasonal Ingredients to Savor

The Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is a celebration of seasonal ingredients that truly shine during autumn. Butternut squash, with its sweet and nutty flavor, pairs perfectly with the crispness of fresh apples. This dish provides a delightful crunch thanks to pecans and a burst of flavor from dried cranberries, making it an inviting choice for any autumn gathering. The combination of these vibrant ingredients not only enhances the flavor but also showcases the beautiful colors of fall on your plate.

Incorporating seasonal produce into your meals is not only beneficial for your health but also for the environment. Local farmers markets often have a plethora of fresh fruits and vegetables during this time, making it easy to create dishes like this pasta salad that are both nutritious and delicious. Choosing ingredients that are in season ensures maximum flavor and nutrition, allowing you to enjoy the best that each season has to offer.

Balancing Flavors and Textures

One of the standout features of this Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is its delightful balance of flavors and textures. Creamy feta cheese adds a mellow saltiness that complements the sweet roasted squash, while tart cranberries provide a refreshing contrast that keeps the palate engaged. The fusilli pasta acts as a sturdy base, holding all the elements together while offering a satisfying bite. With each forkful, you experience a wonderful interplay of sweetness, tanginess, and creaminess, making every bite a joyful experience.

In addition to the flavors, the contrasting textures elevate this dish even further. The crispness of diced apples and crunchy pecans creates an appealing contrast to the soft roasted squash and creamy cheese, adding complexity to each bite. This ensures that you won’t just taste the ingredients—you'll feel them, making your salad experience richer and more satisfying.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a cozy gathering with friends or looking for a comforting meal to enjoy at home, this Fall Harvest Pasta Salad fits the bill. Its vibrant colors and enticing flavors make it not only a side dish but also a standout main course. You can serve it at a potluck or as part of your holiday spread, and it’s sure to impress your guests. This salad is versatile and can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

In addition to its visual and taste appeal, this pasta salad is a wonderful option for meal prep. Prepare a large batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week. The ingredients hold up well, and it’s just as delicious served cold as it is at room temperature. It also makes for a great lunch option for kids, packed with nutrients and flavor to keep them energized.

Ingredients

Pasta Salad Ingredients

8 oz fusilli pasta
1 cup butternut squash, cubed
1 apple, diced
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup pecans, chopped
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

Dressing Ingredients

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all the salad ingredients in a large bowl.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a pot of boiling salted water, cook the fusilli pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool.

Roast the Squash

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, roasted squash, apple, cranberries, pecans, red onion, and feta cheese. Drizzle with the dressing and toss to combine.

Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To ensure the best flavors and textures, store the Fall Harvest Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be safely stored for up to three days, making it an ideal make-ahead dish. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until you are ready to serve. This will help maintain the crispness of the fresh ingredients, particularly the apples and pecans.

When you're ready to enjoy leftovers, you can either eat them cold straight from the fridge or gently reheat the salad. If you opt to reheat, do so in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. This will take off the chill while keeping the ingredients intact. Just keep in mind that reheating may alter the texture of some components, so enjoy it cold for the best experience!

Customization Ideas

One of the great things about this Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is its versatility. Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your tastes. If you prefer different nuts, consider substituting walnuts or almonds; both would add a delicious crunch. For a heartier salad, you can also add cooked chicken or chickpeas for added protein, making it a complete meal.

If you're looking to amp up the greens, consider adding a handful of spinach or kale. These leafy greens not only add nutritional benefits but also a beautiful color to your salad. You could even try incorporating roasted Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes into the mix for an extra seasonal touch. The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to experiment and make this dish your own!

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

The ingredients in this Fall Harvest Pasta Salad not only deliver on flavor but also pack a nutritional punch. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, both known for their immune-boosting properties. The fiber found in squash and apples aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer, making this salad not just tasty but also beneficial for your overall health.

Pecans are another nutritional powerhouse, filled with antioxidants and healthy fats that can support heart health. Dried cranberries, often overlooked, are not only yummy but also loaded with vitamins that can help prevent urinary tract infections and promote overall health. By enjoying this salad, you're treating yourself to a medley of health benefits while savoring the best flavors of the season.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad tastes great when made a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator.

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite seasonal vegetables.