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–+ servings
Fall Harvest Pasta Salad

Vibrant Fall Harvest Pasta Salad Bursting with Flavor

This Fall Harvest Pasta Salad combines roasted butternut squash, whole wheat pasta, and cranberries for a colorful, healthy dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 12 oz Whole Wheat Pasta The perfect base provides texture and bulk for a satisfying meal.
  • 2 cups Butternut Squash Peeled and diced; adds sweetness and a creamy texture when roasted.
  • 1/2 cup Dried Cranberries Introduces delightful tartness and sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup Toasted Pecans Roughly chopped; infuses a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
  • 3 cups Baby Spinach Brightens the dish with freshness and color.
  • 1/4 Red Onion Thinly sliced; brings a sharp bite and vibrant hue.
  • 1/2 cup Feta Cheese Crumble; adds creaminess and tang.
For Roasting
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil Essential for roasting and achieving caramelization.
  • Salt and Pepper Enhances all flavors; adjust to taste.
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Balsamic Vinaigrette Ties all the delightful flavors together.

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • pot

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, spread it evenly on the baking sheet, and roast for 20-25 minutes.
  3. Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions, then drain and rinse under cold water.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, roasted squash, cranberries, pecans, and spinach.
  5. Add red onion and feta cheese, then gently toss together.
  6. Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and mix well.
  7. Let the salad rest for at least 10 minutes before serving.
  8. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnishing with additional pecans or feta if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 7gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

This salad is perfect for gatherings or as a healthy meal at home, and can be customized with additional protein or ingredient swaps.

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