Fall Harvest Pasta Salad

By:

Claire

November 4, 2025

Delicious Fall Harvest Pasta Salad with seasonal vegetables and dressing

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Cozy Fall Vibes with This Pasta Salad

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As the air turns crisp and leaves start to paint the landscape with vibrant hues of orange, red, and yellow, there’s an undeniable allure to the comfort foods of fall. One dish that captures the essence of this season beautifully is Fall Harvest Pasta Salad. Imagine reveling in a bowl filled with deliciously roasted butternut squash, tart cranberries, crunchy nuts, and refreshing bites of apple, all tossed together with a light, zesty dressing. It’s nostalgic, festive, and utterly satisfying—a dish that can warm your heart and energize your spirit during these transitional months.

There’s something particularly special about this Fall Harvest Pasta Salad that invites you to gather around the table with loved ones. It’s perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or a cozy family dinner. As you take your first bite, you’ll experience the marriage of flavors and textures: the nuttiness of the pasta, the sweetness of the squash, and the savory tang of feta. The aroma wafting from your kitchen will be a comforting reminder that fall is a time for togetherness and celebration.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a pasta salad that’s not just another ho-hum side dish, this one stands out for several reasons:

Seasonal Ingredients: This recipe celebrates the bounty of fall produce, with each ingredient bringing its unique flavor and texture to the bowl.
Balanced and Nutritious: With the hearty squash, vibrant apples, and nutrient-dense nuts, you have a salad that’s not only tasty but also packed with vitamins and minerals.
Simplicity: It’s straightforward to prepare, making it the ideal recipe even for those busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Versatile Serving Options: Whether served chilled or at room temperature, it adapts to any occasion beautifully.
Eye-Catching Presentation: The colors alone are enough to make your table sparkle, creating an inviting atmosphere for friends and family.

How to Make Fall Harvest Pasta Salad

Creating your own Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is as easy as pie—and just as delightful! Here’s a friendly walkthrough to get you started.

First, you’ll want to cook your pasta. I like using rotini or bowtie for their playful shapes, but feel free to use your favorite kind. Cook it according to the package instructions, then drain and let it cool while you prepare the other ingredients.

Next, in a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with 1 cup of roasted butternut squash (cubed and pre-cooked), ½ cup of dried cranberries, and ½ cup of either chopped walnuts or pecans for that perfect crunch. Add in 1 cup of diced apples (I love using Granny Smith for their tartness) and sprinkle in ¼ cup of crumbled feta cheese. You’ll want to marvel at the beautiful colors and textures you’ve just created.

Now, let’s whip up the dressing! In a separate small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard. Season this mixture with salt and pepper to taste. As you whisk, you might notice how the flavors start to mingle enticingly—this is when it starts to smell amazing.

Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and gently toss everything together until well coated. If necessary, give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Finally, for that finishing touch, garnish with some fresh herbs like parsley or basil, and you’re ready to serve. The best part? This salad can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, making it a breeze to prep ahead.

Ingredients

8 oz pasta (e.g., rotini or bowtie)
1 cup roasted butternut squash, cubed
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
1 cup diced apple (e.g., Granny Smith)
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs (e.g., parsley or basil) for garnish

Let’s talk about those key ingredients! The pasta forms the base of this salad, offering the perfect canvas for the other delicious components. Butternut squash brings a lovely sweetness and creamy texture, complemented by dried cranberries that add pops of tartness. Nuts add crunch and earthiness, while apples provide refreshing acidity. Finally, the feta cheese introduces a tangy bite. If you’re looking for substitutes, feel free to switch out the nuts for sunflower seeds to keep it nut-free or omit the cheese for a dairy-free option.

Directions

When making your Fall Harvest Pasta Salad, the order of steps can make a difference in the final dish, so let’s keep it flowing. Start by cooking your pasta of choice according to the package directions. Once it’s perfectly al dente, drain it and allow it to cool—you don’t want to wilt those vibrant flavors! As the pasta is cooling, prepare the other ingredients, starting with the roasted butternut squash, cranberries, chopped nuts, diced apple, and crumbled feta.

Transfer the cooled pasta into a large mixing bowl and add in all those colorful additions. Your kitchen is going to start smelling wonderfully inviting at this point! In a separate bowl, combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Whisk this together until it’s well mixed, then pour it over the salad. Toss everything gently to ensure even coating—be careful not to crush the feta! Once everything is combined, garnish with fresh herbs for a touch of brightness.

How to Serve Fall Harvest Pasta Salad

This vibrant salad is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for a multitude of occasions. It shines at gatherings, from potlucks to holiday dinners, not only for its delightful taste but also for its beautiful presentation. When you plate it, let the colorful ingredients shine; the contrasting hues of orange, green, and burgundy make it a feast for the eyes.

If you’re serving it at a picnic or outdoor gathering, consider using a large platter instead of a bowl to showcase the colorful layers. You can also serve it alongside grilled chicken or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. The lightness of the salad, combined with its robust flavor, makes it ideal for sunny afternoons or cozy evenings.

How to Store Fall Harvest Pasta Salad

Leftovers, if you have any, can be easily stored in the refrigerator. Just transfer the salad to an airtight container, and it will keep well for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later on, just give it a good toss before serving to redistribute the dressing, as some ingredients may settle.

For those contemplating freezing, while you can store it in the freezer, I recommend against it since fresh apples and salad greens don’t hold up well in the freeze-and-thaw process. However, if you’d like to freeze the pasta and butternut squash separately (perhaps for a future dish), just ensure everything is well-sealed in freezer bags, and you’ll be set for a future meal.

Tips for Perfect Fall Harvest Pasta Salad

Here are some practical tips to elevate your Fall Harvest Pasta Salad experience:

Cook the Pasta Properly: Be sure not to overcook your pasta, as you want it to hold up well in the salad. Aim for al dente—this way, it will keep its shape when mixed with other ingredients.
Fresh Ingredients: When possible, opt for fresh herbs and produce. They can significantly enhance the flavor and brightness of the dish.
Tweak the Dressing: Don’t hesitate to adjust the dressing. If you enjoy a punchier taste, add a bit more Dijon mustard or a dash of honey for sweetness.
Let It Marinate: If time allows, consider letting the salad sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This “resting” time allows all those beautiful flavors to meld together wonderfully.

Variations

There are plenty of ways to switch up this Fall Harvest Pasta Salad based on your taste preferences and dietary needs. Here are a few suggestions:

Gluten-Free: Substitute traditional pasta with gluten-free pasta for a similarly delicious dish that everyone can enjoy.
Chickpea or Lentil Addition: For a protein boost, consider adding some cooked chickpeas or lentils. They will blend beautifully with the existing flavors and make it heartier.
Herb Swap: Change up the fresh herbs based on your preference. Thyme or sage can add a lovely earthiness that complements the fall flavors.
Cheese Options: If feta isn’t your favorite, try crumbled goat cheese or even a sprinkle of parmesan for a different tangy twist.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a few hours ahead (or even the day before) can enhance the flavors as they have more time to meld together. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Is it okay to omit the nuts?
Certainly! If someone has a nut allergy or you just want to keep it light, feel free to leave them out. You could substitute with crunchy seeds like sunflower seeds instead.

Can I use a different type of squash?
Of course! While butternut squash adds a lovely sweetness, you can definitely swap it out for other varieties such as roasted pumpkin or even sweet potatoes, which would work equally well.

How long will this salad keep?
Stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge, this salad will remain fresh for about three days. However, for the best texture, I recommend consuming it within the first day or two.

Wrapping Up the Flavors of Fall

As the season unfolds and you’re drawn to those cozy flavors, this Fall Harvest Pasta Salad is sure to become a favorite in your home. It brings together the warmth of roasted squash and the sweetness of apples, combining to create something truly special. If you love this recipe, I encourage you to try making it soon, share it with friends, and let it become a beloved addition to your fall gatherings. Save this recipe for later or share it with someone who would enjoy it too—it’s a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of the season!