Harvest Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash, Brussels Sprouts, Cranberries, and Feta Recipe
Introduction
This Harvest Pasta Salad is a delightful mix of seasonal flavors and textures. With roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette, it’s perfect for a cozy lunch or a festive side dish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or fusilli recommended)
- 1 cup roasted butternut squash, cubed
- 1/2 cup roasted Brussels sprouts, halved
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, roasted butternut squash, roasted Brussels sprouts, dried cranberries, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped walnuts.
- Step 2: Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Step 3: Serve the salad immediately for a warm option or chill it in the refrigerator to enjoy cold later. Both ways are delicious.
Tips & Variations
- Use toasted pecans or sliced almonds instead of walnuts for a different crunch.
- Add a handful of fresh baby spinach or arugula for extra greens.
- For a vegan version, substitute feta cheese with a plant-based cheese or omit it entirely.
- If you prefer a sweeter dressing, mix a teaspoon of honey into the balsamic vinaigrette before tossing.
Storage
Store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best served chilled or at room temperature. If the salad absorbs too much dressing after storing, you can add a splash of fresh balsamic vinaigrette before serving and toss gently.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta like rotini, farfalle, or fusilli works well because they hold the dressing and mix-ins nicely.
Can I prepare the roasted vegetables ahead of time?
Absolutely. Roasting the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts a day ahead helps save time when assembling the salad. Just store them in the fridge until ready to use.
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Harvest Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash, Brussels Sprouts, Cranberries, and Feta Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant and wholesome Harvest Pasta Salad featuring tender roasted butternut squash, caramelized Brussels sprouts, sweet dried cranberries, tangy feta, and crunchy walnuts, all tossed in a rich balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect as a nutrient-packed side or light main dish for any season.
Ingredients
Pasta and Roasted Vegetables
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or fusilli recommended)
- 1 cup roasted butternut squash, cubed
- 1/2 cup roasted Brussels sprouts, halved
Salad Add-ins
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
Dressing
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, roasted butternut squash cubes, roasted halved Brussels sprouts, dried cranberries, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped walnuts.
- Dress and Toss: Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the combined ingredients. Gently toss everything together ensuring the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Serve: Enjoy the salad immediately for a warm option, or chill it in the refrigerator for later. This dish is delicious served warm or cold, making it versatile for any occasion.
Notes
- Roast the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts ahead of time to save preparation time.
- Use penne or fusilli pasta as their shape holds the salad dressing well.
- For a nut-free version, omit the walnuts or substitute with pumpkin seeds.
- Can be made vegan by replacing feta cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes (for roasting vegetables)
- Category: Salad
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: harvest pasta salad, roasted butternut squash pasta, roasted Brussels sprouts salad, fall pasta salad, balsamic vinaigrette pasta salad, vegetarian pasta salad
