Fall Harvest Pasta Salad

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Celebrate the flavors of autumn with this vibrant Fall Harvest Pasta Salad, packed with seasonal ingredients like roasted butternut squash, crisp apples, and flecks of fresh kale. Tossed in a light maple vinaigrette, this salad is perfect for potlucks, Thanksgiving gatherings, or a cozy dinner at home. Enjoy a delightful blend of textures and tastes that capture the essence of the season, making every bite a comforting experience.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-10-21T05:38:51.904Z

A Symphony of Autumn Flavors

Fall is a season rich in color and flavor, and this Fall Harvest Pasta Salad embodies the essence of autumn in every bite. The combination of roasted butternut squash, crisp apples, and hearty kale creates a delightful medley that not only satisfies the palate but also provides nutritional benefits. Each ingredient is carefully selected to highlight seasonal produce, making this salad not just a dish, but a celebration of the harvest season.

Butternut squash brings a natural sweetness and creaminess to the mix, which pairs perfectly with the tartness of the fresh apple. The kale adds a nutritious crunch, while the walnuts contribute a savory depth with their rich, nutty flavor. Each element works in harmony, creating a balanced dish that’s both refreshing and hearty. Perfect as a main or side, this salad fits beautifully into any fall menu.

Easy Prep for Any Occasion

One of the best features of this Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is its versatility. Whether you're preparing for a casual dinner with friends or a festive Thanksgiving feast, this recipe scales effortlessly to meet your needs. The straightforward preparation allows even novice cooks to impress their guests with minimal effort. With just a few simple steps, you can create a stunning dish that looks as good as it tastes.

The salad can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to develop and meld together beautifully. When you combine the ingredients and drizzle them with the maple vinaigrette, each component has the chance to soak in the delicious dressing. This makes it a fantastic option for potlucks and gatherings, as you can prepare it in advance and serve it chilled or at room temperature.

Nutritional Benefits

This Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, providing antioxidant properties that are essential for maintaining good health. The addition of kale offers a powerhouse of nutrients, including fiber, iron, and calcium, making it one of the best leafy greens to include in your diet.

Furthermore, walnuts provide healthy fats and protein, supporting heart health and aiding in satiety. The dried cranberries not only add a burst of flavor but also contribute antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation. Together, the ingredients create a balanced dish that supports wellness while celebrating the flavors of the season.

Ingredients

For the Salad

8 ounces pasta
2 cups butternut squash, cubed
1 apple, diced
1 cup fresh kale, chopped
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup dried cranberries

For the Maple Vinaigrette

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons maple syrup
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine ingredients in a large bowl.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Roast the Butternut Squash

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

Prepare the Vinaigrette

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

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, roasted butternut squash, diced apple, kale, walnuts, and cranberries. Drizzle with vinaigrette and toss to coat.

Serve

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

Enjoy your fresh and seasonal salad!

Tips for Perfecting Your Salad

To ensure your Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is at its best, consider roasting the butternut squash until it's caramelized and tender. This brings out its natural sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the salad. Feel free to experiment with different apples based on your taste preference—sweet varieties like Honeycrisp or Gala are great choices for a refreshing crunch.

If you want to make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the pasta with a gluten-free alternative such as quinoa or lentil pasta. This keeps the dish hearty and satisfying while accommodating any dietary restrictions.

Serving Suggestions

This salad makes an excellent side dish for roasted poultry or grilled meats, complementing their flavors beautifully. You can also serve it as a light main dish alongside a warm loaf of bread for vegetarian guests. Consider pairing it with a glass of crisp white wine or a light red to elevate the dining experience.

For a unique twist, add some crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese to the salad just before serving. The creaminess of the cheese adds an additional layer of flavor and richness that pairs wonderfully with the maple vinaigrette.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld as it sits, making it even tastier the next day. Just be sure to reserve some of the vinaigrette to refresh the salad before serving it again, as the pasta can absorb some of the dressing.

For longer storage, consider separating the components if you anticipate leftovers. Keep the vinaigrette separate until right before serving to maintain the texture and freshness of the salad ingredients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just wait to add the vinaigrette until you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for butternut squash?

You can use sweet potatoes or pumpkin as a substitute.