Fall Harvest Pasta Salad

Name: Fall Harvest Pasta Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (farfalle or penne); 2 cups roasted butternut squash, cubed; 1 cup cranberries, dried; 1/2 cup pecans, chopped; 4 cups mixed greens; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional); 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tbsp honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Elevate your autumn meals with this vibrant Fall Harvest Pasta Salad, bursting with seasonal flavors like roasted butternut squash, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans. This delightful mix of pasta, fresh greens, and homemade dressing delivers a perfect balance of sweetness and savory goodness, making it an ideal side dish for Thanksgiving or a cozy family dinner. Enjoy the comfort of fall with every bite!

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2025-11-29T04:41:17.145Z

Fall is the perfect time to indulge in hearty meals that reflect the changing seasons. This Fall Harvest Pasta Salad brings together the best of autumn ingredients for a flavorful experience.

Seasonal Flavors

This Fall Harvest Pasta Salad beautifully showcases the flavors of the season, bringing together the earthy sweetness of roasted butternut squash and the tartness of dried cranberries. The combination creates a refreshing yet hearty dish that is perfect for autumn gatherings. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, making it a dish that both guests and family will enjoy.

Pairing sweet elements like butternut squash with the savory crunch of pecans offers a symphony of tastes. The distinctive nutty flavor of pecans adds depth to the salad, while their crispy texture provides an enjoyable crunch. Moreover, the added mixed greens not only elevate the nutritional value but also lend a fresh, vibrant touch that complements the richness of the other ingredients.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This pasta salad is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various occasions, from intimate dinners to large Thanksgiving feasts. It can effortlessly transition from a side dish to a main course, simply by increasing the portion size or enhancing it with additional protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas. Its colorful presentation also makes it an eye-catching addition to any festive table.

Not only does the salad taste fantastic, but it also holds up well when prepared in advance. This makes it a wonderful option for meal prepping or for those hectic holiday gatherings where time is of the essence. Simply prepare it a few hours ahead, let the flavors meld in the refrigerator, and serve it chilled or at room temperature for a fuss-free side.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your salad:

Ingredients

8 oz pasta (farfalle or penne)
2 cups roasted butternut squash, cubed
1 cup cranberries, dried
1/2 cup pecans, chopped
4 cups mixed greens
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have your ingredients ready, it's time to prepare your salad!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your delicious pasta salad:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Dressing

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

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, roasted butternut squash, cranberries, pecans, mixed greens, and red onion.

Add Dressing

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. If using, add feta cheese on top.

Serve

Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to let the flavors meld.

Enjoy your homemade Fall Harvest Pasta Salad!

Nutritional Benefits

Packed with nutrient-rich ingredients, this Fall Harvest Pasta Salad offers a range of health benefits. Butternut squash is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which are essential for a robust immune system and glowing skin. The addition of mixed greens provides fiber and essential vitamins while adding bulk to the meal without many calories.

Dried cranberries not only contribute a burst of sweetness but are also rich in antioxidants, promoting heart health and supporting overall wellness. Pecans add healthy fats to the mix, which are essential for brain health. When combined, these ingredients create a balanced dish that pleases the palate and nourishes the body.

Customization Options

One of the best aspects of this Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is its adaptability. You can easily swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For instance, if you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds would work just as well. You can also switch out the mixed greens for arugula or spinach, depending on your taste.

If you're looking for a vegan option, omit the feta cheese and consider adding chickpeas or quinoa for added protein. Additionally, you can introduce different seasonal fruits like diced apples or pears to enhance the sweetness. Experimenting with various add-ins makes it easy to create your own unique twist on this beloved salad.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad and dressing separately and combine them just before serving for the best texture.

→ What other ingredients can I add?

Feel free to add ingredients like roasted apples, goat cheese, or assorted vegetables based on your taste.